Study tips for students

1. Set clear goals before you begin. Write down a plan before you start learning. Set realistic goals for each learning session, such as number of pages or number of chapters to be learnt. Note that each goal should have a specific timeline.

2. Learn with a clear mind. Be relaxed when you are learning. You can learn more when you are in a relaxed state of mind. Deep breathing is a way for relaxation of mind. Try to take at least five slow deep breaths before you begin learning. This will dramatically improve your brain's absorbing power.

3. Make learning an active process. Instead of mere reading of material, make learning more active by taking notes, memorizing, teaching someone etc.

4. Summarize what you have read in your own words. Make a short note on it. Ask some questions based on what you have read and try to answer those questions.

5. Use your imagination. Imagination keeps you interested in learning and improve retention. Visualize what you are reading about. Make these mental picture more vivid and clear. The more clear, the image the chances are high that you will remember the information on required time.

6. Be truly focused. When you take in the information you must fully attend to what you are doing. How much time you study does not matter most, but what matters is that how efficiently you study in that time. Be where you are.

7. Take short breaks. Take short breaks to refresh your mind. Walk around, drink some water in the break time. This will restore your attention. A five minute break for every twenty five minutes is a good guideline.

8. Review: Everyday start by reviewing the main points you have learnt the previous day. Review helps to move an information from your short term memory to long term memory.

9. Sleep well: Good sleeping habits can aid memory. Try to get at least six hours of sleep. This time varies according to each individual.

10. Exercise daily: Regular exercise can improve concentration and thus the learning capacity. Besides regular exercise will boost your self esteem and self confidence.

11. Stay away from distractions. Your learning environment should be calm and positive. Stay away from distractions such as television, computer games, radio, telephone etc. It is often helpful to study in a library.

12. Don't Procrastinate. Study it on the available time even if it is not urgent. Set clear goals and start studying. Once you have started studying, never rearrange the learning session. Procrastinating studying will decrease the zeal and interest to study those things. The only time completely in our control in now.