After a nice Christmas break, it is sometimes difficult to get back into studying, so here are a few study tips to help you get back into things.
1. Use your diary. Don’t just use your diary to keep track of homework, use it to keep track of your extra-curricular activities and social events too. Tests, practices, away games, half-days and holidays are just some of the things you can keep track of in your diary.
2. Why not start small. If you have a big assignment or test coming up, don’t wait until the last minute. Try to do a little bit each day. That way you will be on time, will be prepared and even have time to review your work and take a break.
3. Be organised. Make sure you have all the supplies and tools you need when doing homework and assignments. But also make sure you have a system. Keep it simple, for instance keep each subject’s notes together in a folder and colour code them so you know where everything is when you need it.
4. Start a routine. Make time for homework every day. Find a time that works for you and work it into your schedule.
5. Create a distraction-free zone. Turn off the TV, radio and your phone and focus on your homework and the task at hand.
6. Use your class time wisely. If your teacher is done with class and there are still a few minutes left, why not spend them starting your homework assignments.
7. Study a little every day. Why not take a look at your notes every evening? This is one way of studying and will give you time to ask if there is something you do not understand.
8. Don’t let a bad grade get you down. Everyone knows the feeling of working really hard and then getting a bad grade. But do not let this get you down – rather take it as a learning opportunity and focus on the things you don’t understand so you will be ready for the next test or assignment.
9. Make friends. Make a friend in every class. That way, when you have to miss class, or do not understand a question, you have someone you can count on to help you.
10. Relax. School can be stressful but make time for yourself as well. Walk in the garden or just take a few minutes for yourself every day.
