You may probably find that reading and studying for science courses seems a lot different than preparing for non-science courses. In this field, you have a lot of things to read on and understand. Science deals with theories and computations combined therefore, a lot of effort and discipline are needed. Different strategies work well for different students and in different approaches. Often heard, "I don't get it," is nearly a statement of inadequacy and lack of effort rather than the excuse it is meant to be. Like anything else, acquiring good study habits requires time and practice to develop. Below are some tips that you can use in reading and studying science materials. With these, many of your learning challenges and problems will be easier to recognize and deal with. If doing all of these seems too much for you, choose at least some of them to start and work on.
Study until you have mastered (not memorized) the materials. Do not limit yourself to study in a specific range of time. Remember that your goal is to study your lessons effectively and not to study it only for a specific time allotment. The number of hours you will spend studying may vary from your classmate and there is no problem with that.
Study in an active way. Meaning, be awake and energetic while studying. You can be active by doing something physically in addition to reading like repeating important information aloud as if you are explaining it to another person or by writing it down or drawing it.
Find a GOOD PLACE and a GOOD TIME for studying. This may vary with different personalities. Some may prefer to stay in a quiet place like the library while others prefer to study in a less quiet place, where music can be played, or where people can talk freely and discuss amongst themselves. Be sure that whatever place you choose, you will be free from time-consuming distractions such as telephone and visitors. Regarding the study time, personally, I study best very late at night, but I can also do well first thing in the morning. My worst times for studying are the afternoons, when I just can't seem to focus as well. Pick your studying time so that you will be most successful.
It is important to review your notes later in the day when the lecture was given. Even if the review is brief, a quick review on the same day promotes the movement of material into long-term memory. However, it should be followed with more reviews for mastery. Studying should be an ongoing process.
Studying with others may be your best bet to learning science. You will find that you learn so much more when you meet with other students or tutors and ask them questions or answer their questions. Often, people think that they understand a science material, but when they discuss it with someone else, they find little holes in their seemingly perfect patch of scientific knowledge. Intellectual discussions pave the way for better understanding. You will find these techniques to be really helpful.
Always do your own work. It doesn't hurt to discuss class concepts with others, in fact it's a great idea, but everything that goes on paper should come from you. Completing your assigned tasks yourself will help you learn.
Always ask QUESTIONS and CLARIFY hanging ideas. Asking doesn’t make you stupid; not asking, when you should have, does. That may even prove detrimental come examination time.
Remember that a rough start is not the lack of ability, it is generally caused by poor study habits and time management. Don’t get discouraged; be persistent in your efforts.
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