 |
|
 |
|
Study Efficiently
|
Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to read every line or every chapter in every text.
Marking A Textbook Vs. Taking Chapter Notes
Skillful, purposeful marking in your textbook is much more useful than taking copious chapter notes. In fact, it is the most efficient aid for retention and review that you can devise. A well-marked chapter can be reviewed in less than half the time it would take to re-read it entirely, and your review will be far more effective.
The main points, main supporting details, and the relationships between ideas all jump to the eye. You don't need to re-study unless you can't recall the meaning of a marked passage. In that case, you can quickly skim to refresh your memory.
It has been proven that the student who takes lengthy, detailed chapter notes is an inefficient student. He could spend less time studying and learn more by applying the SQ4R method to his textbook, marking the important points and making brief notes right in his book.
Of course, to be an effective aid to review, the marking must be done in a methodical, purposeful way.
Many students read, pencil in hand, and simply underline anything that seems important or interesting at the time. This activity keeps them busy and may help them concentrate, but unfortunately, it is no help later on. Bear in mind, then, that your markings are your guide to review.
Here are some hints on how to become a successful textbook marker:
WAIT to start marking until you have read and thoroughly understood the chapter or significant portion of it. Then GO BACK and mark the MAIN POINTS in any fashion you choose, so long as it is consistent: underlining, Roman numerals in the margin, key words in the margin, etc.
The main points are almost always generalizations, which the author then develops through subordinate ideas and details.
Be sure to indicate not only the main ideas, but also the relationships between them.
Doing this may require you to scrawl a word or two in the margin, or use little arrows to connect points, or use a series of numbers and letters, or circle key transitional words.
If you feel you also need to note subordinate points and key details, such as the proof the author advances for a given generalization, note them economically. For instance, use little circled numbers, combined with the barest minimum of underlining of key words.
Use a VARIETY of marks and use them consistently. You may want to underline main ideas, circle names and dates, or use brackets and marginal notes for an entire key paragraph.
Summary words or phrases in the margin, or at the top or bottom of the page are helpful, but use them sparingly and, if possible, abbreviate them.
Use the inside front or back covers to keep a running glossary of formulas, terminology, etc., and the page numbers on which they are defined.
Whatever system you use (you will work out your own method depending on the nature of the course and the textbook), DON'T OVERDO IT. Don't mark up the page just to convince yourself that you are studying. Make your marks simple and have a good reason for every mark you make.
It is a good idea, if you have time, to review your marks immediately after you finish the assignment, before you close your book. This delays the inevitable forgetting, and leaves you with the main points in mind
In a well organized text, you can with practice, formally outline the chapters right in the margins, with Roman numerals and letters and a word or two of comment.
If you still feel the need of separate chapter notes, you can take your notes from your own textbook markings. That way, you will avoid writing down too much. But the well-thumbed, well-marked textbook is the best review text of all
The SQ4R Method of Study
SQ4R is a method of studying, not reading. Contrary to popular myth, reading material once is not enough for learning. The keys to learning are organization and repetition, both of which are included in the SQ4R method.
"SQ4R" is an acronym for the steps in the method: Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Record, Review.
SURVEY
Survey the entire chapter by reading the headings and subheadings, observing charts and graphs, reading summaries, and skimming any questions at the end. The survey step provides and organizational overview of the chapter, gives a "mind set" for the job and ultimately saves time.
QUESTION
Ask questions based on the survey. Becoming actively curious about the material aids in concentration, comprehension, and memory.
READ
Read for Understanding. Take one major section at a time. (Do not take notes yet.)
RECITE
After reading each section, make a deliberate effort to recall the main points. This is the step most students skip, yet it is critical to retention. After reciting, check in the book for corrections and forgotten points. Try to put things in you own words.
RECORD
Take notes on each section as the Read and Recite steps are complete. The more organized and detailed the notes, the better for mastery of the material. Once again use your own language.
REVIEW
After all sections have been read, recited, and recorded, an overall review of the chapter is needed. This is best accomplished by rereading all notes for the chapter, followed by a deliberate effort to recall the material. This review reminds the student of all material covered, reorganizes the separate sections back into a united whole, allows a check on any material that remains unclear, and helps with retention.
Comments on SQ4R
The SQ4R method of study is easy to understand, but can be difficult to put into practice on a regular basis. Try it out! Initially it may seem to take too much time, but time spent studying as assignments are read is time saved when studying for exams. Also, you do not need to follow the steps rigidly; experiment and modify the method to best fit your needs. Students who learn to use SQ4R typically find it to be well worth the effort.
Find the central idea and integrate supporting information
Examine the syllabus, table of contents, chapter headings, section headings and chapter quizzes for the main ideas expressed in each. Which do you want to know more about?
The first paragraph of reading will usually tell you what that part of the reading is about. Look for main ideas there.
The first sentence is usually the topic (main idea) of the paragraph. Sometimes it can be the second or the last sentence of the first paragraph. If that is the case, the previous sentence or sentences build up to, or support, the main idea.
Most texts give examples to illustrate the main ideas expressed in each section. You only need to fully understand one example.
In your study notes or chapter marking, highlight the main ideas in each section of the text and one clear example or supporting argument. Use the margins of your text or your notebook to write key words/phrases that will remind you of this information.
Create a study guide
Remember, you need to explore your own level of interest in the material and decide how much of an investment is good enough for you.
Review the syllabus, table of contents, chapter outlines, section headings, or chapter quizzes and decide what you need to learn. Make your own outline of the key issues in the course as they flow from the beginning to the end of the semester.
Make your own quiz sheet for each topical section of the course. Outline the essentials with supporting information. Use key words or phrases (like flash cards) to remind you of larger points.
Make a test preparation plan well in advance of the actual exam. This will serve as a road map to efficient study throughout the semester.
|
|
| |
|
For
more information about these and other services,
call (202) 994-5300 or visit . |
|
|
|
