How do I get better at study habits?

Question

So I'm going into the 7th grade and in 6th grade I finished with all C's and B's. I really want to make Honor roles this year, but I just can't study. Are there any tips or anything?

Answer 1

People will tell you to study, but often times they don't tell you HOW to study. Here are some tips. I taught a high school class how to read (and understand) text books and I think this will help you:

I'm attaching a link to help you better understand this method. It's called the SQR3 method, which stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review. Be sure you keep a notebook for each class and take notes in class* and while you're reading your textbooks. When reading your textbook, be sure to follow these tips:

1. S is for Survey. Scan over what you're about to read. If it's a chapter on U.S. History, think first about what you already know about this topic - books, movies you've seen, etc. Look over the section headings, the intro and the conclusion and questions in the back if there are any.

2. Q is for Question. Look at the section headings and turn them into questions. Write these questions in your notebook. Your goal will be to answer these questions while reading the section of that chapter.

3. R is for Read. Read the section and make notes while you are reading. Be looking for the answer to your question and write the answer in your notebook. (if reading is tough for you, try reading in phrases, 2-3 words and then pause, to better understand what you're reading.)

4. R is for Recite. Look up from the book and say outloud the answers to your questions. Reciting helps you to remember. Then go on to the next section.

5. R is for Review. Review your notes for the entire homework reading assignment. Highlight anything you think is extra important to remember for test time later in the semester.

*I've attached another link to help you with learning how to take good notes in class. I hope this helps. If you want more tips, feel free to ask anytime. I am studying to be a guidance counselor and/or teacher and am willing to help anytime!

Answer 2

Sure. Here are my tips:

- You need more motivation. Think of some of the people in the world who don't even get close to an opportunity of education, so count yourself lucky.

- Avoids distractions. Put away computer/laptop, turn off the T.V or anything else like that or even better try to find a peaceful room with none of these things. This will help you focus.

- Be organised. It's a lot harder to study if you are constantly searching everywhere in your house for a textbook or jotter, it also wastes time. My advice is to keep all your academic stuff in one place, try to keep it tidy and at least then you will know where to look.

- In class, ask for help. If you find you are falling behind in a subject or not achieving the grades you want, it is worth the while to ask the teacher. Explain to them that you want to get better grades and I'm sure they will be happy to help you, they should show you how and will propably suggest things to help you. Remember not to hesitate to ask, as this is the teacher's job; to teach and help people.

- Time management. It plays such an important role in studying, if you have lots to do, complete homework that is due the earliest first. If you know you don't have enough time to study, it means it's time to cut down on the amount of television you watch.

- Sort out the priorities. If you have a subject which you are struggling with and a subject you find easy. It is recommended that you spend more time on the more difficult subject so you can get better at it and hopefully reach the same level as the other.

- Responsibility and self discipline. There is one hour before you have to go to bed, there is a programme on T.V which you want to see, yet you have a test tomorrow. What one do you choose? THE TEST! It is more important, you know it and it's is beneficial for you. Getting a good mark for yourself is much more self rewarding than watching the programme.

- For actual studying techniquies. First one is to oraganise all your notes into one place for every subject. Try to write them in note form which makes it easier for the brain to absorb the information.

- Second technique is to use spider diagrams. For example, you have a geography test on France. Write France in the middle of a blank sheet of paper and draw a circle around it. All the ideas and notes you have about it, you would draw out lines from the middle of the main things you need to remember.

- Third technique is using flash cards for help with memorising. Small peices with one word on one side and the definition on the back. The point is to go through all the cards and by looking at the word, see if you can remember the definition. It is like a miny test for yourself.

- Other things you can do is take notes in class, have good behaviour, listen to the teacher carefully and try your best. Rememeber that some people have find it very easy to study while others find it hard. With practice and determination, you will develop your own ways of studying and will improve. This is an excellent skill to have for going into high school.

Hope this helps. Good luck. :-)