السلام عليكم و رحمة الله و بركاته
First you have to note that what goes right for someone does not necessary go right for everyone. We're different, so we conceive information differently.
So to start, everyone should define himself for himself...like:
- I perform the best when not under pressure.
- I need to revise an information twice in order to get it.
- I love equations.
- I remember stuff when linked together.
- etc...
Everyone has his own unique list and remember "We Are Different" :)
Here are some tips that were useful to me and I'll try to generalize them in order to fit with most of us.
First
Start by motivating yourself
Search for a motive to study the subject, like objectives, applications,...why this subject is important for "me"?
Write a list of intentions, why are you studying? link it with your beliefs.
Sometimes you may just need to do something nice before you start, like a good healthy meal, some exercises or may be a computer game :)
Second
Manage your time.
Do not spend the whole day moving between different subjects and having a Zero output at the end of the day!
Do not distract yourself with phone calls while trying to concentrate. (make time for them :))
Group your questions to the end of your study.
[check those 2 maps for some time-management tips
#1 #2]
Third
Before you start, make sure that there is nothing on your desk that is not related to the subject you're about to start :) If possible, only put the materials that you'll currently use.
It helps a lot to feel that you only have something small to do, also so as not to be distracted with the other subjects.
Fourth
Try to have fun :) Enjoy what you're doing with all possible ways.
use colors, sticky notes, drawings, ...... anything that would make ur studying seems to be fun :)
you can even make a funny chart with all your tasks and deadlines.
For me, mindmaps played a very important role in my study
(check out
this document for a quick intro about mindmapping )
Fifth
Take breaks...never stay so long on your desk...It's boring & you'll lose concentration. Take a 5 mins break each 55 mins or something. It depends upon the subject you're studying.
Sixth
Plan your studying time. Make specific studying hours and have some goals to reach.
Make time for having fun, helping your friends, communicating with your family..........
Try to have a balanced life.
Seventh
Collaboration! Sometimes it helps a lot to study in groups. Brainstorm with your friends & share your good ideas. Generally the IQ of a group is much larger than the IQ of an individual.
Eighth
As you study -through the whole year- highlight all the important parts and main topics. It will help you a lot when revising and when trying to find some specific piece of information.
Ninth
Stay organized as much as you can. It will save you plenty of time when it's time to study!
Tenth
Last but not least, never forget night prayers. I can't remember/find the name now, but it was said that one of the good ancestors -who was a chemist- used to pray at night when faced by hard chemistry problems :)
إذا استعصت عليه مسألة، أستعان عليها بقيام الليل
Remember to always follow up with yourself to make sure you're on the right road
Happy new semester everyone
