You just sat down in class.. now what? At any random point during the lecture, look around and see how many people are taking notes (on paper or computer), listening attentively, scrolling through their phones, talking to each other, or even asleep on their desks.
Which group do you fall into? If you are reading this, it means you have taken the initiative to better your study habits, which puts you ahead of many other students!
If you already made the effort to get ready and go to school to spend your time in a classroom, why waste that time being distracted and disengaged, right?
Here are some tips for being productive during each lecture:
1. Pay Attention:
This goes without saying, but I’m going to say it anyway. The easiest way to improve your grades is to be present and listen to each lecture.
More specifically, look out for repeated information. Most professors will reiterate important concepts over and over again to get the point across.
Some may even give you exact questions or details that will be ON THE EXAM!
By identifying important material, you set yourself up for success come study and exam time.
Remember, you’re already in class so spend this time wisely.
2. Take YOUR Own Notes, Not the Professor’s:
Whether they be written or typed, your notes should make sense when you read them at a later time.
Most importantly, they should reflect your understanding of the topic.
Avoid copying what’s on the board or slide word by word.
Instead, paraphrase the information using your own terms and you will be able to retain the concepts better.
If there is something you do not feel comfortable rephrasing on your own, it probably means you should ask questions to clarify that topic.
Focus on quality, not quantity!
3. Come Prepared and Be Organized:
Make sure you bring all the materials you need for the class.
Forgetting your notebook or binder may not seem like a big deal, but if you have notes scattered on different places, it will be much harder to stay organized.
Get creative with colored pens, highlighters, and sticky notes. If you prefer typing you can easily edit your text in a variety of ways.
Use your experiences as a student to improve your organizational skills. Each class should have a section in a binder or notebook, or a desktop/online folder.
Additionally, keeping materials in chronological order helps you track the material covered in a certain time period.
Studying is much easier when you have structured, edited, and personalized notes.
4. Complete Those Pre-Class Readings:
One of the most dreaded tasks students are asked to do is read chapters or materials before coming to class.
This may seem unnecessary because these readings are usually not graded, so what’s the point?
I cannot stress this enough.. coming to class with some knowledge about the lecture will put you ahead of the game!
Instead of trying to grasp information for the first time, previous exposure to the concepts means you can use class time to ask relevant questions and fill any gaps in understanding.
Most prep time takes about 30 mins or less! If you have more time, take some notes; otherwise a quick read is always better than nothing.
Pretending you have a quiz on each pre-class reading will help you form consistent study habits.
5. Limit Distractions:
As difficult as it can be, staying away from social media and other distractions is key.
Let people know you are in class; good friends will understand where your priorities lie! Put your phone on silent and place it away from your reach.
You can always check your feed at a later time or during breaks. However, once a lecture has passed, it is hard to get that time back.
Perform meditation and focus exercises daily so that you can stay focused during class.
6. Use Your Professor as a Resource:
Although this is obvious, many students forget that they have a knowledgeable educator right in front of them.
Do not be afraid to ask questions or ask professors to repeat themselves. Others will thank you!
If a topic is unclear, chances are other people in your class also need clarification.
If you do not feel comfortable speaking up, talk to your professor in person after class.
Getting the answers you need right away will solidify your understanding immediately after being exposed to that material.
As a bonus, professors remember students who ask questions and are willing to help you out later on.
Remember that what you do during class will either benefit or hurt you on the long run.
So start early and prepare for each lecture by reading ahead. Try to make note-taking fun and personalized.
When you take notes using your own words you are no longer remembering someone else’s concepts, but your own!
Congratulations! You made it to class. So set yourself up for success by making the most of this time.
Be the first to reply