8 Best Study Habits for Students to Become Successful in Exams - Class 10 PDF Download

Make the Most of Class Time

• Ensure your active participation in all class sessions, attentively engaging with the lectures and adopting a note-taking approach that suits your learning style. The objective is to create comprehensive notes that remain understandable when you review them later.
• Oliver, a Chinese international student at the University of Kansas, emphasizes the correlation between taking good notes and paying closer attention in class. According to him, "When you study for exams, it proves to be highly beneficial." If you encounter any difficulties in comprehending a concept, don't hesitate to raise your hand and seek clarification, or make a note to consult your professor or teaching assistant (TA) after the class concludes.

Study with Classmates

• Alongside cultivating friendships, establishing study groups for each of your classes offers a valuable and enjoyable means of test preparation. Collaborating with peers not only aids in the development of effective study habits but also promotes teamwork in group projects and enhances self-assurance.
• Oliver suggests, "Seek out a study partner to exchange notes with. This way, you can collaborate, study together, provide assistance to one another, and mutually motivate each other to strive for improvement." Engaging in group study sessions provides an opportunity to share knowledge, gain different perspectives, and collectively enhance academic performance.

Take Advantage of Office Hours

If you encounter difficulties understanding a concept or topic, your professors are there to provide assistance. Take advantage of their office hours by visiting them in person or reach out to them via email with your questions. This proactive approach will aid in gaining a deeper comprehension of the class material, receiving valuable study tips to prepare for exams, and improving your essay writing skills. Additionally, establishing a connection with your instructor through these interactions may open doors to a meaningful mentorship that can greatly benefit your academic journey.

If it is written on the board, add it to your notes. It just might be on the test.

Create Flashcards

One of the most effective study techniques for college students is to transcribe significant facts, concepts, and definitions onto flashcards. By utilizing flashcards, you can engage in self-quizzing without relying on external assistance. Additionally, digital flashcards and study apps offer an alternative method for organizing and reviewing the study material in a convenient manner. These tools provide a versatile and efficient way to reinforce your understanding and retention of the subject matter.

Find a Good Study Spot

• Preferences for study environments vary among individuals. While some find solace in the quiet atmosphere of a library, others thrive amidst the lively ambiance of a bustling café. Similarly, certain students prefer the familiarity of their desks, while others seek out outdoor study spots basking in the sunlight.
• Oliver, a standout student at KU, finds that a quiet setting devoid of distractions suits him best. He remarks, "When studying at home, there is a risk of getting sleepy or being tempted by computer games. Therefore, I choose to go to the library for my study sessions." The optimal study environment is one that fosters productivity for you personally, so it's worth experimenting with different locations to determine which one yields the best results for your concentration and focus.

Switch It Up

Spending excessive time on a single subject can lead to a decline in concentration. One crucial study tip for college exams is to switch topics approximately every 30 minutes to avoid mental fatigue. By periodically shifting your focus, you prevent exhaustion and maintain optimal engagement. After taking a short break, return to challenging topics with a refreshed mind, enabling better comprehension and retention of the material.

Read and Review—Early and Often 

• Based on the Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve principle, our ability to retain information diminishes significantly, with 70% of what we learn being forgotten within 24 hours. To counteract this, it is advisable to dedicate time each evening for a brief review of new concepts learned in class. By revisiting the material the day after, you enhance retention and comprehension.
• To effectively review, break down chapters into manageable sections and evaluate the content at the conclusion of each section before progressing further. Take concise notes that summarize the essential aspects of the reading, enabling easy review without the need to re-read entire chapters. Additionally, bookmark challenging sections that may require further attention for later revisitation. These strategies facilitate efficient and focused review, combating the natural tendency to forget and reinforcing your understanding of the material.

Stay Organized

Maintaining a well-organized schedule is essential for managing class meetings, homework, assignments, projects, and study sessions effectively. Utilize a planner or calendar system to stay on top of deadlines, dates, and times, ensuring that no important tasks or commitments are forgotten. It is advisable to consult your class syllabus for crucial dates and milestones, enabling you to plan a study schedule that suits your preferences and optimizes your productivity. By proactively managing your time and adhering to a well-structured schedule, you can navigate through your academic responsibilities with greater ease and efficiency.