Study plans for college?
What is a study
plan?
A study
plan is an organized schedule that students create that outlines study times
and learning goals. Just like with work or school schedules, college students
should develop a study schedule where they can block off days and times in
their calendar dedicated to studying. If you are an online student, a study
plan is even more important in your success in college, since you need to have
self-discipline and determination to complete your studies without the constant
reminders of an instructor.
Why do I need a
study plan?
Every
student will develop a different study plan; there is no correct study plan for
everyone. When creating your personalized study plan, you will need to do some
self-evaluation of your current schedule and time management. Remember, each
student studies differently, so the amount of time you need to study will
differ from the time your classmates devote to studying. Some students find
that studying nightly for thirty minutes is more realistic than studying a few
times a week for a longer period of time.
Lastly,
create a study plan that is reasonable. Although you must set aside enough time
in your schedule dedicated to your studies, blocking off five hours with no
break will set you up for failure. You can spend less time studying if you do
it correctly. For a detailed look at how to make a personalized study plan,
explore the step-by-step instructions below.
4 steps to create
your study plan:
Step #1: Create a time chart of your
current activities. Creating a time chart will allow you to see how you spend your
time from day to day. For a one-week period, take notes about your daily
activities. Record things like when you are at work, school, or home with
family. Even note when you eat and sleep. Once you have done this for a week,
look for times that you can slip in an hour of dedicated studying.
Step #2: Develop a schedule – Now that you have
determined available days and times for studying, make a mark in your planner
or calendar. Use detailed notes to block out times on your calendar so that you
are reminded every time you look at it. It is best to have a schedule written
down so you don’t forget. Seeing it written down can make it seem more
important, like a doctor’s appointment you cannot miss. Also, it is helpful to
write down which subject you plan to study, so you can be sure devote enough
time to each of your classes.
Step #3: Determine your study goals – At
the beginning of each week, determine why you need to study and what you plan
to accomplish in each class. For example, if you are studying for an important
midterm exam, alter your study plan two weeks prior to the test to incorporate
review of old tests and notes in your sessions. On the other hand, when you
don’t have an upcoming test, use your study time to read ahead one chapter in
order to grasp the next lecture. You will need to tailor your study plan
depending on your weekly goals, so be sure to analyze what you plan to get out
of each study session. While it is tempting to skip your study session when
there isn’t a test looming over your head, you will reduce your future test
preparation time by reading ahead and preparing for lectures.
Step #4: Stick to your schedule – A study plan works
best if it is followed on a consistent basis. You should try to develop a study
plan that you can follow for the length of each semester of college. Since most
students enrol in different classes each semester, you will have to revaluate
your plan and fine-tune it each term. Remember, the most important thing is
sticking to your plan.
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