Frustration, confusion and worry. These are familiar feelings when it comes to learning new subjects at school. Especially when a major test, or assignment is coming up. That’s when it’s time to make sure you understand the subject and can get the grade you deserve. Oftentimes, it is easy to become overwhelmed when questions arise about where to start, or how to create a a study plan. A few other questions that usually come up are:
Do I study on my own, or should I try and join a study group? Can I handle studying all the material by myself? How do I put this together when I don’t understand it? What if joining a group ends up being a waste of time? What if I’m not getting it? Who can I go to for help?
When it comes to figuring out the answers to these questions, we want to offer you 10 useful tips to get you going and decrease your frustration, confusion and worry.
Talk to your teacher: Your teacher is your best resource when it comes to understanding the material. Don't be afraid to ask questions in class or during office hours.
Form/join a study group: Studying with a group of classmates can help you learn from each other and identify areas where you need more help. **Make sure they are studying the material, care about their grades, or they may become a distraction.
Find a tutor: If you're still struggling after talking to your teacher and joining a study group, consider getting a tutor. A tutor can provide one-on-one attention and help you develop a deeper understanding of the material. Find out if your school offers tutoring, or access to tutoring services. Your school counselor should be able to guide you with this.
Use online resources: There are many online resources available that can help you learn about a tricky subject. Khan Academy, Crash Course, YouTube and MIT OpenCourseware are just a few examples.
Take advantage of your textbook: Your textbook is a valuable resource that can help you learn about the material. Don't be afraid to read the textbook multiple times and take notes as you go. You can also look up free online versions of your textbooks if you are unable to take them home.
Break down the material into smaller chunks: If you're feeling overwhelmed, try breaking down the material into smaller sections rather than whole chapters or problem sets. This will make it seem less intimidating and easier to understand.
Focus on understanding the concepts, not just memorizing facts: While memorizing facts can be helpful, it's more important to understand the underlying concepts. Go step by step, mastering each step of what you are working on. This will help you apply your knowledge to different situations. Google the concept you are learning and look for explanation videos to aid your comprehension.
Practice, practice, practice: The more you practice, the better you'll understand the material. Try doing practice problems, taking quizzes, and creating your own study materials. If you are giving a presentation, practice with friends and family to get comfortable with public speaking.
Don't be afraid to ask for help: If you're still struggling, don't be afraid, or embarrassed to ask for help from your parents or caregivers. They can assist you in problem solving. Plus, there is no shame in asking for help, and it can make a big difference in your understanding of the material, completing your homework and getting a good grade.
Stay positive: It's important to stay positive and motivated when you're dealing with a tricky/new subject. Remind yourself that you are capable of learning the material, and don't give up on yourself. Remember: you are in school to learn, so not getting it right away is all a part of the process. You Can Do This!
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