Hello Everyone! I’m back here with a review ...seems ages! Thanks to all of you who wished me luck for my exams. They were pretty good. So, what better topic to write on ?? I have been asked to reveal the ’’secret’’ by my fellow students quite a number of times. But, there is no secret! Just Self-discipline and Determination.
First things first ....
Never skip lectures unless it is really needed. Attending lectures makes it easier to understand and grasp the concepts when you are reading or studying on your own. Our professors and teachers (most of them) are vast oceans of knowledge. You will learn much more through them than any of those books. Besides, meaningful interaction in class makes the subject interesting. ’Bunking’ lectures seems more of a fad...but, think about it. Does it help? (We could have this as a separate topic for review/debate).
Before the bell ...
Scan! Incase you are aware of the topics that would be covered in the class....it is a good idea to Scan through the text book once before the scheduled class. It will help you to keep a track in the class and know what is being taught, what is covered and what is omitted.
While in Class ...
Pay Attention! Do not allow your mind to wander. If you cannot keep control …you’d be wasting your time in the class. I always prefer sitting on the first bench...right in front of the teacher’s desk. And it has helped me a lot to concentrate, as I am more conscious of myself.
Jot down. Always keep a book and pen handy and take down the main points, formulas, abbreviations etc, if any. Make a note of what you haven’t understood well. These rough notes could also be of help for last-minute brushing-up.
Ask questions. Though you can choose to approach the concerned teacher after class… but, as far as possible, solve your doubts in class itself. For 2 reasons - 1) If the part you haven’t understood is linked with the next- you will end-up losing the entire thread. And ..2) You may indirectly help the others who haven’t understood too, and are afraid to ask.
After Class ...
Read. It is extremely important to read what was taught in class within 48-60 hours. This will help you to retain the same for a longer period of time. If again you feel you are not sure of something ...get back to your teacher the very next day. Avoid procrastination.
The P-O-R-P-R (Proper) Method
PLAN- It is always good to plan your studies. Set a timetable for yourself. Allocate appropriate time for each subject. And, stick to the time-table! Be disciplined. Do not include your ’homework’ in your study time. Decide what will you cover in each lap. Set realistic goals.
ORGANISE- Organise ...your books, your study material and yourself! Keep all our books in one place, so that you don’t have to waste your time in looking for them when you need. The same goes for other study material, stationery etc.
READ- Read in your own pace and in the way you feel most comfortable. Some people find it easier to understand and remember by reading aloud. Try and experiment what works best for you. While reading, make mental notes. Do NOT cram-up please! Cramming doesn’t help. Cramming is like RAM - short-term memory. Instead, create ROM. I bet there is enough space in your brain ;-) Understand and grasp.
PRACTISE- When it comes to subjects like Mathematics and Accounts….Reading doesn’t help much. You have to practise sums, problems….to judge yourself. I maintain a separate book for listing out formulae and equations.
REVISE- You cannot ignore revision. While revising...you do not have to read through the entire chapters like you did earlier. A quick look at the headings, sub-headings, points and sub-points should be good enough. Also remember, short and regular review sessions are more effective than a 3-hour session at one go.
Some General Tips ...
~~ Begin Early. Don’t depend on the eleventh hour.
~~ Take class tests. Prepare well for the tests even if they are not a part of your academic report-card.
~~ Take short breaks while studying. Do not exert yourself.
~~Do not be a bookworm. Remember ’’All work and no play, makes Jack a dull boy’’.
~~ Aim High. Don’t set a 40 % (or whatever the passing percentage is) goal for yourself. But, be realistic and Believe in yourself.
~~ Motivate yourself.
~~Evaluate and review your progress from time to time.
~~ Remember, its never too late to begin. Do not give-up.
~~ Be healthy. Eat, exercise and sleep well. Do not ignore your health.
Final Word...
I hope this review could be of some help especially to the students here. A few words for the parents:
This is the world of competition. As long as it is healthy, it is fine. But, do not set high standards for your child. High expectations could create unnecessary pressure leading to other related problems. Instead, be a constant source of encouragement and motivation. Accept the limitations/weaknesses and help your child to nourish and pamper his/her strengths.
Wish you Good luck !!