Cruise Towards Exam Success with These Studying Hacks
Exam time can be a challenging period, but you don't have to face it alone. We've gathered some fantastic tools to help you boost your study game and ensure you ace those final exams. These tips aren't limited to the final exam period; they can be valuable allies throughout your academic journey.
Gain an Edge with Smart Note-Taking Methods
Notes, in and of themselves, are powerful study aids. To make the most of them, you should:
Intelligent Notebooks
- A high-quality smart notebook like the Rocketbook Core (approx. $27.73) aids in digitizing your handwritten notes quickly while keeping them organized and easily accessible by transferring handwritten notes to your device. Handwritten notes are known to aid memory, but a notebook full of content doesn't help if you can't find what you're looking for. Bonus points: it also serves as a fun art tool for doodling.
- To organize your notes during the critical note-taking phase, stock up on some colored sticky notes (a pack of 120 for under $8) to help with categorizing content based on topics, importance, or preparation for exams.
- For pen-and-paper lovers, consider the BookFactory Notebook (approx. $14.99), which has been specifically designed for the Cornell method of note-taking and includes a built-in primary column on each page. This, when coupled with sticky notes, can help you stay super-organized.
Boost Your Reading Skills
Reading and re-reading are the foundations of learning, but staying focused can be a challenge. Here are a few gadgets to help you overcome that challenge:
- Start by investing in an adjustable portable book light. While different versions abound on the web, consider one like this from Glocusent (approx. $21.99), which can be adjusted around texts or notebooks without requiring constant clipping and re-clamping, thereby ensuring your comfort as you learn.
- Prefer studying at home or on the go? Consider a foldable study desk like this one from Slendor (approx. $29.99) that meets your unique requirements, complete with a USB charging port, a beverage holder, a stand for your tablet or laptop, and a mini-drawer for your writing utensils. Special learning aids that you can call upon during critical times can help you stay focused. A compact, moveable study desk that fosters a ‘study mode' feeling can be a valuable ally.
- Do you enjoy listening to white noise while you study? The Machines for Learning with White Noise (approx. $34.19) from Reacher will not only provide gentle sound but also incorporate built-in lights, adding depth to your study environment.
Optimal Gedächtnis Training
While some learning strategies are beneficial, they can be highly effective when used with the right tools. In addition to using a smart notebook for note-taking, consider the following to enhance your long-term memory:
- Leitner System: If you adopt the Leitner System for retrieval and memory training (and you should!), investing in a divided folder or box for your flashcards can make a huge difference. This way, you can categorize flashcards based on how well you remember them, and subsequently review them at varying intervals. While students usually use blank dividers or folders for this purpose, a box like the Leitner Notebook from Neando (approx. $36.98) takes care of the separation for you.
- Color-coded pens: Using multiple colored pens (12-pack for under $6) can help you create color-coded notes and flashcards, which have been scientifically proven to aid memory recall.
- Timer Tools: Utilize time management techniques like the Pomodoro Technique to enhance focus and productivity. Rather than checking the time on your phone, use a Pomodoro Timer like this one from Meloho (approx. $26.39) to plan and execute your study sessions more effectively.
To make the most of your exam preparation, consider integrating these tips and tools into your study routine. Happy studying!
