Studying is not just opening books and reading them. Learning about real estate such as investing in Kuala Lumpur or preparing a house for rent in Kuching? No worries, no matter what the subject, these studying tips can apply to almost any situation. To make the most of your study time, you should study smart, not study hard. In today’s guide, we’ve compiled a list of tips to help you in developing learning strategies to achieve your learning goals.

1. Set realistic study goals
Goal setting is an invaluable strategy in helping people successfully effect positive changes in their lives. Never underestimate the power of thoughts. Identify the things you want to achieve and make sure these goals are realistic and achievable. Once you set your mind to something, believe that you can achieve it!

2      2. Make study plans
Time cannot be saved, only spent. If you don’t spend it wisely, it is wasted. Recognize that cramming last minute for tests will only lead to disaster. The key to breaking this vicious cycle is to think ahead and make an effective study plan. Once you put this plan to pen and paper, it will help you organize yourself and your time well. Not only will this put your mind at ease, it makes sure you are as prepared as you can be. Failing to prepare will leave to prepared to fail.

3    3. Take regular breaks
Even the most diligent student needs regular breaks. We are not superhuman. It is thus important to realize that our bodies need some time to recover from the work we put in. Schedule regular breaks in between study sessions in order to keep your concentration level high. Our brains just can’t handle and maintain an optimum level of concentration for long periods of time. You might feel like you’re putting off some things, but rest assured that it is not. In fact, it’s the opposite. Taking short breaks help improve your focus, in turn boosting productivity.

4     4. Embrace technology
In today’s world of fast-paced technology, studying no longer means copying notes on paper during lectures or self-study. Pen and paper still has its place of course. There are just more options available to make studying more personalized that it was ever before. Learning has now become more fluid and user-centered, with a plethora of knowledge accessible via the internet.

5    5. Test yourself
Test yourself with regular quizzes to ensure that you can remember and apply what you have learned. Sometimes, exam environments place undue pressure on us, and things tend to slip our mind during moments of nervousness. Thus, mentally prepare yourself with your own tests before you go for exams.

6    6. Find a healthy balance
Ensure that you are both physically and mentally healthy. Do you complain of lacking sleep? Do you think your energy is running low? It can be uncanny, but sometimes all you need is a little mental change and the right balance between mental and physical health. Such small changes can positively affect your attitude and study habits.

7    7. Stay optimistic
Your attitude has a big impact on your level of productivity. Keep your glass half full, and it could just be the touch that helps you get your studying done. The key is to keep your mind focused on positive thoughts and positive outcomes. Learn how you can use positivity to impact the effectiveness of your learning process and how you can use your own personal strengths to achieve your study goals.

8    8. Form a study group
Form a study group with people you know you work well with. Make sure you are all motivated to achieve the same study goals. As they say, teamwork is the key to success. Having study partners ensure that you are always on your toes. You can question each other and also learn from each other.

9    9. Establish a study routine
We are all creatures of habit. Try out a few different studying environments or try studying at different times of the day. Mix and match and try out different combinations of routines. Once you have found a study routine that suits you well, stick to it.

1   10. Turn lessons into stories
Everybody likes a good story. Not only do stories entertain, they help us remember better too. You can weave information into a story to help you better memorize boring facts and details. The more outlandish and ridiculous the story, the better you will remember it.