Multiple choice questions are a staple of education. They may be less ubiquitous (<–SAT vocab word) than they once were. Still, we all have to take multiple choice tests. Students, it’s vital that you have a good strategy for answering multiple choice questions. Use this 4 step process to answer any multiple choice question like […]
How to overcome test-taking anxiety (and why you need to)
Test-taking anxiety is real. You know it. I know it. We’ve all had those moments where we experience the sweaty palms, the nervous jitters, the racing heartbeat. It happens. But should it? Test-taking anxiety negatively effects your performance when taking a test (similar to cramming for an exam). As unfortunate as that is, it’s true. […]
How to use the chunking method to memorize vocabulary
The chunking method does not sound like a memory device. Where I grew up, that was a way to throw something – you had the tossing method, the hurling method, and the “chunking method.” (I hear in other places in the world, that’s actually the “chucking method,” but to each his own). But that’s not […]
Doing your homework (the right way)
Today’s guest post on homework is from Robbie Fluegge, a Harvard University sophomore. We’ve all been there. It’s already late at night and you haven’t started your homework assignment that’s due tomorrow. Your friend said it took them a couple hours, but you’re not worried. You know that you can get it done. All that […]
Student memory tip: re-thinking flashcards
I have a love-hate relationship with flashcards. On the one hand, using flashcards seems to be an effective student memory tip. This is especially true of detail-rich information. After a few rounds of going through flashcards, students seem to be much better at recalling the information on those cards. It’s a memory strategy that has […]
4 effective types of notes to try taking in-class
What types of notes are the best to take in class? That’s a great question we want to address today, for two reasons. First, this question means you are taking notes in class. Ideally these will be handwritten notes rather than digital. But either way – whether you’re using Evernote or some old-fashioned pencil and […]
Handwritten notes vs. typed notes: is there a difference?
Most students know they need to take handwritten notes. It’s kind of the “go-to” for study skills. “Need better grades? Have you tried taking notes?” It’s common sense, right? If you want to remember something, you need to write it down. If I have something to-do, but I didn’t write it down, it’s a coin […]
6 Tips to Finding Research Paper Sources that Set You Apart
Research paper sources can be difficult to find – especially if you want the good ones. And we want good ones. One of the exercises we often have our students in our online study skills courses do (you can find info on them here) is to think about your teacher having to read all of […]