The Top Study Tips for New York Students
As a student preparing for college or higher-level education in the New York area, you undoubtedly feel a lot of pressures and stress. You need to juggle course load, grades, job opportunities, and a social life. To help you excel academically and set yourself up for success, get to know the top study tips for New York students. Read through the best ways to study and take on the test prep from a new angle.
Make a Study Schedule
The age-old adage is true: time is of the essence. Don’t wait until the last minute to begin studying for an upcoming test. By creating a study schedule, you set your path to success.
Start by making a list of your goals and assignments due. Then, divide the work up into sections and assign them to various days of the week. Be sure to leave enough free time in your calendar to take a break and hang out with friends.
Invest in Quality Supplies
Having a reliable collection of study supplies is essential to staying on task and meeting success. Burning the midnight oil over a textbook filled with written notes isn’t as effective as having a color-coded binder filled with neatly-organized tabs.
Make sure to invest in quality supplies such as highlighters, sticky notes, folders and binders. Don’t forget essentials like pens and pencils – having a variety of writing instruments readily available means no time is wasted when looking for a working pen.
Prioritize Focus, then Reward
It is important to think ahead to what classes and exams you must prioritize in order to reach your educational goals, and to focus on those classes harder than the others. Then, when tasks are completed, be sure to reward yourself with positive affirmations and breaks.
Smartphone Apps to the Rescue
New York students who don’t have access to a computer constantly may feel disadvantaged when it comes to studying. Today, there are several apps available for download onto smartphones that can make it easy for students to manage their learning, classes and notes all from one device.
Flash cards, audio lessons and study timers, along with other type-specific apps can help New York City students stay on task when and where it works best for them.
StopMultitasking
Though it is tempting to watch TV or browse the web while studying, multitasking can have a huge negative impact on the productivity of your study time. When you are trying to focus on the subject material, your mind will be most efficient if you concentrate on a single task instead of flipping between several screens.
Be sure to turn off your phone and unplug your computer while you study. Then, designate study spots that are away from the TV, or any other type of media input.
Stack Wins – Celebrate Success
When studying for a long-term goal or project, the finish line can seem like a million miles away. It is very much possible to divide the job into smaller, more manageable tasks. Every time you cross one off the list, take a break to relax or go see a movie. Setting smaller goals and “wins” along the way will help keep motivation high and will increase productivity levels.
Find an Organized Study Group
Every student learns differently, and taking the time to find an organized study group can do wonders for understanding complex concepts. Instead of meeting with a large group, try to find a more intimate setting where the members have similar goals. This way, the group can remain focused and goal oriented.
If a study group isn’t an option, there are online study communities available online. Here, students can connect with their peers from all over the world.
Seek Out Expert Help
If you ever feel lost or need additional expertise on a subject, New York is home to amazing professionals who can help guide you. Dozens of independent tutors, review classes and study groups are available.
By connecting with a professional in the same field, you can get the best advice and expertise. Additionally, you can find independent study classes in the area or through the many programs offered at universities across the Northeast.
Utilize Your Libraries
Finally, don’t forget the power of libraries. According to the New York Public Library, anyone who lives, works or pays taxes in New York state is eligible for a library card. This means access to millions of books, research papers, audio books, DVDs and more – all from the comfort of your own home.
New York also offers lots of library-sponsored classes, study groups and events for book clubs and film nights – perfect for a break from studying.
As a student trying to make it in the tough New York academic world, it is important to stay organized, careful and focused. Utilize the valuable resources available to you through libraries and online study networks. Most of all, be sure to take the time to reward yourself each and every step of the way. Good luck and enjoy!