Test-taking and test preparation strategies

A student's guide to test-taking and test preparation strategies

Taking tests can sometimes feel stressful, but with the right strategies, you can feel confident and ready to succeed! This guide is here to help you learn the best ways to prepare for tests and perform your best during the test itself. Let’s dive into some strategies to make studying and test-taking easier.

Part 1: How to prepare for a test

1. Start early
Don’t wait until the night before the test to study! Start reviewing your notes a few days (or even a week) in advance. This will help you avoid cramming and reduce stress.

2. Create a study plan
Break down the material you need to study into smaller sections. Create a plan where you review one or two sections each day. This will make the study process easier and help you remember more.

Example: If you have a science test on four topics (like plants, animals, habitats, and the water cycle), review one topic each day.

3. Use flashcards
Flashcards are great for memorizing key facts, vocabulary words, or math formulas. Write down important information, a vocab word, or question on one side, and the answer or definition on the other. Test yourself or ask a friend or family member to quiz you.

4. Practice with old tests or worksheets
Ask your teacher if they have any practice tests or worksheets you can review. These can help you understand the types of questions that might appear on the test.

Bonus tip: Try setting a timer when you practice to get used to working within a time limit.

5. Explain concepts to someone else
One of the best ways to know if you’ve truly understood something is to explain it to someone else. Teach a family member or a friend what you’ve learned. If you can explain it clearly, you’re likely ready for the test.

6. Stay organized
Keep your notes, textbooks, and worksheets organized. Use folders, binders, or a study notebook to help you find what you need quickly.

7. Take breaks and stay active
While studying, take short breaks to rest your brain. Every 30-40 minutes, stand up, stretch, or take a walk. This will help you stay focused and avoid burnout.

Part 2: Strategies for during the test

1. Read the directions carefully
At the beginning of the test, make sure to read the instructions for each section. Don’t rush! This will help you understand what the test is asking you to do and avoid mistakes.

2. Skim through the test first
Once you get your test, quickly look over the whole thing. Notice how many questions there are and what kinds of questions (multiple choice, short answer, essays, etc.). This can help you plan your time better.

3. Start with the questions you know
It’s okay if you don’t know the answer to every question right away. Start with the ones you know best. This will give you confidence and save time for more challenging questions later.

4. Use the process of elimination
For multiple-choice questions, if you’re unsure of the answer, try eliminating the choices you know for sure are wrong. This increases your chances of picking the correct answer from the remaining choices.

5. Don’t rush - but watch the clock
It’s important not to rush through the test, but also make sure you’re aware of how much time you have. A good strategy is to divide the time by the number of questions, so you know, on average, about how much time you can spend on each one.

Example: If you have 60 minutes and 30 questions, spend about 2 minutes per question.

6. Check your work
If you finish early, use the extra time to review your answers. Double-check your math work, reread your short answers, and make sure you didn’t skip any questions.

7. Stay calm and breathe
If you start feeling nervous or stuck, take a deep breath. Staying calm helps you think more clearly. Remember, you’ve prepared for this!

Part 3: After the test - review your results

1. Go over the correct answers
When you get your test back, review the correct answers. Understanding what you got right will help you remember for future tests.

2. Learn from mistakes
If you got questions wrong, don’t worry! Mistakes are a part of learning. Ask your teacher or a parent to help explain the correct answers so you can understand where you went wrong.

3. Keep a positive attitude
Whether you did well or not as well as you hoped, stay positive. Use the test as a learning experience to help you do even better next time. Celebrate the effort you put into studying and taking the test.

Part 4: Extra study tips for different subjects

Math

• Practice different types of problems (word problems, equations, etc.).
• Memorize important formulas (like area or perimeter).
• Show your work on paper, even during practice.

Reading and English

• Practice reading comprehension by asking questions about what you’ve read (who, what, where, when, why, how).
• Review grammar rules, like punctuation, capitalization, and sentence structure.
• Practice writing short summaries of what you’ve read.

Science

• Use diagrams and charts to understand concepts.
• Memorize key vocabulary and terms.
• Practice explaining scientific processes or cycles (like the water cycle).

Social Studies

• Make a timeline of important events for history tests.
• Practice naming and labeling places on a map.
• Summarize key points about historical figures or events.

Final thoughts

Remember, tests are just one way to show what you’ve learned. With preparation, a calm attitude, and the right strategies, you can feel confident and ready for success. Keep practicing, stay organized, and always try your best!

Good luck on your next test - you’ve got this!

How to annotate articles

Annotating articles: Your ultimate guide for effective reading

Aaron S. Robertson

Introduction

As middle school students and high school students, you're probably used to us teachers harping on you all the time, "Use your annotating strategies!" and "Don't forget to highlight as you read!" and so on. And rightly so. See, us teachers understand that merely reading an article or book isn't enough to fully comprehend the text. It's easy to forget key details and to totally miss potentially valuable concepts, insights, and deeper connections by only reading on the surface. The way to become a critical reader, then, is to annotate while reading, which will allow you to understand the text more completely.

Annotation is an act of highlighting and making notes on the text, which can be done both in digital or physical formats. In this blog post, we will explore some strategies and good practices for annotating an article or book. Middle school students, high school students, and even college students and older adults can benefit from these tips and strategies. This is a great life and work/career skill that can help you at any age, in any situation, and with whatever you're reading, no matter the subject. I annotate all the time, and I love it. So, without further ado, then, let’s dive into the details here and help you get more out of your reading.



Effective strategies for annotating articles

1. Pick the right tool

Before you start annotating, you need to select the right tool. You can opt for either digital format (like PDF annotation tools or Microsoft OneNote) or physical format (an old-fashioned highlighter and pen). Both formats have their advantages and disadvantages, and it depends on your preference and convenience. Personally, for me, I prefer the physical format. I like the article/book to be in hard copy format whenever possible and using yellow highlighters and black pens to make notes.

2. Identify important points - and avoid overdoing it

Now comes the most important part of annotating: identifying key details and points you may not understand right away. You can mark or highlight the phrases that introduce the main idea of each paragraph; the critical supporting details; noteworthy people, dates and places; and any unfamiliar words or phrases. While highlighting, you'll want to avoid highlighting everything. I see many students fall into this trap. Too much highlighting can make it difficult to tell important points from the less important ones, so you'll want to be selective in your highlighting.

3. Make notes

After identifying the most important points, it's time to make notes that summarize the critical points, along with your thoughts and questions about them. Using a system of abbreviations and keywords can help you keep your notes brief and organized, such as "Q" (question), "C" (cause), and "e.g." (for example). Summarizing the text into your own words helps you understand it better and aids in retention.



4. Connect ideas

Once you’ve identified key concepts and made notes, look for any connections between them. Would one idea lead naturally to another? Can you challenge or support the author's argument constructively? Making connections and reflections while annotating will help you improve your critical thinking and find and understand the links between ideas.

5. Revise your notes

Finally, When you read your annotated notes again, revise them, and check to see if they are comprehensive and make sense to you. Go back to the highlighted parts of the text and double-check to see if you missed anything essential. It’s critical to finalize your notes while everything is fresh in your mind, so try to revise them as soon as possible.

Conclusion

In conclusion, annotations provide an excellent means to better understand a text, making them a useful practice for lifelong learning. Whether you’re a middle school student, high school student, college student, or even an older adult, annotating articles will help you improve your reading and comprehension. The strategies discussed in this post are beginner-friendly and can be practiced by virtually anyone, anywhere, and in any format. Don't get caught up in the idea that there's only one way to annotate an article - find what works best for you and make it a habit to improve your reading and comprehension skills, along with your retention. Happy reading - and annotating!

Writer's checklist for research papers

The ultimate writing checklist for research papers

What should be included in a solid writer's checklist before students embark on preparing a research paper or project?

Introduction

Research papers and projects are essential parts of academics that require critical thinking, extensive research, and exceptional writing skills. Students need to consider many elements before starting their project to ensure they don't miss out on important aspects of their writing. This is where a writer's checklist comes in handy. In this blog post, we'll discuss what should be included in a solid writer's checklist before students embark on a research paper or project.

Let's explore the components of a good, solid checklist

1. Choose a topic

Choosing an interesting topic can make the writing process more manageable and enjoyable. Students should choose, if possible, a topic they're passionate and curious about, ensuring they can find ample resources to support their research. Narrowing the topic down to a specific area will make the research more targeted and easier.

2. Conduct thorough research

After choosing the topic, the next step is to conduct thorough research. Utilize reliable sources such as scientific journals, books, and academic websites to gather information. Students should compile all their sources in a well-organized manner for easy referencing later.

3. Create an outline

A good outline can ensure that the writing process is organized and flawless. It helps students to stay on the right track and ensure all the necessary components of the paper or project are covered. Outlines can be made in bullet points or brief phrases, and they should include the introduction, several main points, and a conclusion.

4. Write the first draft

Once the outline is complete, it's time to start writing the first draft. This draft should not be perfect – it's an opportunity to get all the ideas down on paper. Students should focus on writing without worrying too much about grammar or sentence structure.

5. Edit and revise thoroughly

Revising and editing are critical parts of the writing process. Students should take some time off and come back to their work with a fresh perspective. Revise the first draft, adding or removing information as necessary, and correcting grammatical and spelling errors. It is also advisable to seek feedback from peers, teachers, and/or tutors before submission.

Conclusion

Preparing a research paper or project can be a daunting task, but with a solid writer's checklist, it can be an enjoyable process. By following the tips mentioned above, students can ensure their writing is organized, thorough, and error-free. Writing is an essential skill that students carry through life, and with practice, they can become exceptional writers.

Understanding text-dependent analysis

A beginner's guide to text-dependent analysis for middle school students and high school students

What is Text-Dependent Analysis (TDA)? What are some effective strategies and practice ideas to help middle school students and high school students adequately prepare for TDA as part of a major assignment, test, or exam?

Introduction

As students progress through their academic journey, they encounter a variety of assignments, tests, and exams that challenge their critical thinking and analytical skills. Among these types of assessments is a writing task known as Text-Dependent Analysis (TDA). TDA is an activity that requires students to read a complex text and analyze it by citing textual evidence to support their responses. The purpose of this blog post is to provide a beginner's guide to TDA targeted at middle and high school students. We will discuss what TDA is, why it is important, and offer several effective strategies and practice ideas to help students excel in this task.

Preparing for TDA

1. Understand the structure of TDA: Before students can begin to practice Text-Dependent Analysis, it is essential to understand the structure of the task. This activity typically consists of three parts – introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction, as the word suggests, introduces the topic or prompt and sets the context for the TDA. The body of the TDA includes evidence and reasoning, which supports the student's understanding of the text. Finally, the conclusion sums up the student's response to the prompt.

2. Annotate the text: An essential strategy for TDA is to thoroughly annotate the text. Annotating the text involves highlighting key phrases and noting any questions, comments, or observations. By doing this, students can develop a deeper understanding of the text and support their analysis with specific textual evidence.

3. Use graphic organizers: One effective way to prepare for TDA is to use graphic organizers. Graphic organizers are visual tools that students can use to organize their thoughts and ideas. They provide a structured framework that can help students identify key points in the text, analyze and interpret those points, and connect them to the prompt.

4. Practice responding to prompts: The best way to get better at TDA is to practice responding to prompts. It is important to keep in mind that the prompt's focus is not only on content, but also on structure, grammar, and mechanics. Therefore, when practicing responding to prompts, pay attention to the structure, organization, and use of evidence, and ensure that the writing is clear and concise.

5. Seek feedback: Another crucial aspect of preparing for TDA is seeking feedback from teachers or tutors. It is vital to ask them to review your writing and provide constructive feedback on areas that need improvement. Take their suggestions and apply them to the next TDA writing task to improve your performance.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Text-Dependent Analysis is an essential writing task that helps students develop their analytical and critical thinking skills. By understanding the structure of TDA, thoroughly annotating the text, using graphic organizers, practicing responding to prompts, and seeking feedback from teachers, students can master this task. Overall, the key to excelling in TDA is to have a deep understanding of the text, organize thoughts and ideas effectively, and use textual evidence to support your response. We hope that the strategies and practice ideas discussed in this blog post will help students improve their performance in Text-Dependent Analysis.

Graphic organizer charts for students

Organize your notes with these graphic organizer charts

What are examples of graphic organizer charts that students can use to keep track of their research notes and ideas?

Introduction

Research is a crucial part of any academic work. Whether you're doing a project or preparing for an upcoming exam, gathering information is your top priority. However, it can be challenging to keep all the facts, ideas, and data organized. Luckily, there's a solution! Graphic organizer charts. These helpful tools can help you keep track of your research notes, ideas, and findings. In this post, we'll explore some of the best examples of graphic organizer charts that students can use to organize their research notes and ideas.

Different graphic organizer examples to try out

1. Venn Diagrams

One of the most popular graphic organizer charts is the Venn diagram. It consists of two or more overlapping circles that represent the similarities and differences between two or more sets of data. As a student, you can use Venn diagrams to compare and contrast information, such as different theories, characters, events, or concepts. For instance, you can use a Venn diagram to compare and contrast two historical figures or two literary works. You can also use a Venn diagram to explore the intersections between two disciplines, such as science and literature.

 

Venn diagram. The overlapping space is used to list similarities between the two concepts/people/events/subjects being explored.

 

2. Mind Maps

Another powerful tool for organizing your research notes is the mind map. This type of graphic organizer chart lets you create a visual web of interconnected ideas, concepts, and keywords. You start with a central idea or theme and then add branches that lead to related topics or categories. You can use colors, symbols, and images to make your mind map more engaging and memorable. Mind maps are perfect for brainstorming, outlining, and summarizing complex information, such as theories, arguments, or historical events.

 

A typical mind map template.

3. Flowcharts

If you need to represent a series of steps or processes, a flowchart might be your best choice. Flowcharts are visual diagrams that show the sequence of events or actions from beginning to end. They consist of various shapes, such as circles, rectangles, diamonds, and arrows, that indicate the different stages or decisions of a process. Flowcharts can help you track the progress of your research, identify potential roadblocks, and analyze the logic of a system or a concept.

 

Flowchart example

4. T-Charts

A T-Chart is a simple but effective tool for comparing and contrasting two different categories of information. It consists of a vertical column on the left and right side of a horizontal line. You can use it to categorize data based on different criteria, such as pros and cons, advantages and disadvantages, or causes and effects. For instance, you can use a T-Chart to compare two political candidates or two mathematical formulas.

The T-chart is a classic graphic organizer, and just like the Venn diagram, quick and easy to set up.

5. Concept Maps

Concept maps are another type of graphic organizer chart that can help you visualize complex ideas, relationships, and processes. Unlike mind maps, which emphasize the central theme, concept maps allow you to explore multiple connections between different concepts or categories. They consist of nodes or bubbles that represent key concepts or categories, and lines that link them together according to their relationships. You can use concept maps to analyze the structure of a text or a system, to generate new ideas, or to revise and summarize your research notes.

 

Concept map model

Conclusion

In conclusion, graphic organizer charts are powerful tools for keeping track of your research notes and ideas. By using visual aids, you can organize and understand complex information more effectively, and enhance your critical thinking and creative skills. Whether you prefer Venn diagrams, mind maps, flowcharts, T-charts, or concept maps, there's a perfect tool for your needs. So, next time you conduct research, don't forget to use a graphic organizer chart and see the difference!

Take better study notes

Note-taking strategies for middle school students and high school students

Explaining effective note-taking strategies for middle school students and high school students. How can these students take better study notes and commit more to memory?

Introduction

Taking effective notes is an important skill that students of all ages need to learn. Good note-taking skills can help ensure success in school and enable students to commit more information to memory. But how do you take better study notes? Let’s dive in and explore some effective note-taking strategies for middle and high school students.

Organize your notes

The first step to taking better notes is organizing them effectively. Most schools have their own preferred method of taking notes in class, such as using a spiral notebook, keeping a binder of loose leaf paper, or using a laptop or tablet. Whichever method you choose, make sure it works best for you - if you prefer writing your notes down by hand, don’t feel pressured to switch to typing them up just because everyone else does! Additionally, make sure your notes are arranged into categories that are easy for you to reference later on when studying.

Use mnemonic devices

Mnemonic devices are tools used to help remember facts or pieces of information. For instance, if you’re trying to memorize the order of the planets from closest to farthest from the sun (Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars…), try creating an acronym such as “My Very Educated Mother Just Served Us Noodles” - each word in the phrase corresponds with one of the planets! Mnemonic devices like this can be especially helpful when studying for exams or tackling difficult subject material; they make it easier for students to recall what they learned in class without having to read through pages upon pages of detailed notes.

Practice active listening & note taking

Active listening is another great way for students to get more out of their classes and lectures. This involves paying attention not only with your ears but also with your eyes - watch body language and expressions closely while listening carefully. Take brief summaries throughout the lecture so that everything remains fresh in your mind later on when studying; this will help keep distractions at bay and ensure that you’re getting as much out of the lecture as possible!

Conclusion

Note-taking isn't always easy, but it's an essential part of being successful in school. By organizing your notes into categories, utilizing mnemonic devices when necessary, and practicing active listening techniques during lectures and classes, middle schoolers and high schoolers can take better study notes and increase their chances of success on exams and assessments! With these strategies in their toolkit, young learners can quickly develop the skills necessary for taking effective notes now - and throughout their educational career!

Balancing school and work

It can be hard to fulfill all your responsibilities when juggling both school and work. Fortunately, there are a few ways to make the struggle a little easier. Here are some tips for balancing your school and work responsibilities, so you don't end up falling behind in your studies.

1. Look for appropriate times at work to fit in your studies.

Are you most likely going to sit in the break room during your break(s)? If so, bring along one or two of your assigned readings (books, articles - whatever format they're in). Bring along one or two of your assigned written assignments, or at least a notebook and pen to jot down some thoughts and ideas for your written assignments that you can use later on when you have a larger block of study time available. You'd be surprised how much reading and/or writing you can get done during your 15-minute break(s) at work.

If you get a lunch break, consider splitting your time between eating and studying. A split lunch break could give you an extra 10-15 minutes or more of study time that might otherwise go unused.

The time spent traveling to and from work can also be used for studying if you have a long commute on public transit.

2. Ask for some leniency at work around exam time.

You are likely to be extra busy with school work in the weeks leading up to your exams. Consider asking your employer for reduced or more favorable work hours during this period to help you better cope with your increased school work. While some employers will be more accommodating than others, yours may be happy to offer some relief in such times.

3. Speak with your teachers if you're falling behind on critical projects.

Teachers are more likely to make allowances if they know you're balancing school and work, but open and honest communication on your part is the key here. It's your responsibility to approach your teachers on this. If there's no chance of you finishing particular projects or papers on time, speak with your teachers well before the due dates to see what your options are. By "well before the due dates," I mean at least several solid days before, not the night before or the morning of. Your teachers may offer deadline extensions or reduced penalties for late submissions. But again, it's all on you to initiate this important conversation.

There's no doubt it can be a struggle to balance both school and work. Because of this, it's not uncommon for workers to see some unpleasant results on their school assignments, tests, and exams. Hopefully, the preceding three tips can help ease your struggles, so you can continue to do well with your studies while fulfilling your responsibilities at work.

If you found this post helpful, you may want to check out these previous posts, as well:

How to properly prepare for tests and exams

High school students and stress

Better study habits

Be more productive, complete projects on time

Be more productive, complete projects on time

Four ways to boost productivity and complete your projects on time

When you're working on a big project but only have a limited amount of time to get it done, boosting productivity becomes very important. Otherwise, when the deadline arrives, you might not have much to show for your efforts. So, how do you increase productivity so you can finish your projects on time? Read on to find out. Here are four ways of boosting productivity that can help ensure your projects get done before they're due.

1. Commit to working on your project every day.

Sometimes the most challenging part of finishing a project is getting yourself to actually work on it - especially after an extended break. That's why, instead of procrastinating, you should commit to working on your project every day. By working on your project every day, you'll incorporate it into your daily routine, making it easier for you to continue with the project from where you've left off.

2. Set deadlines for completing the various stages of your project.

It can be tempting to casually go about your work if you don't set deadlines for the various stages of your project. To keep yourself from falling into a slowly-paced work style, give yourself specific deadlines to meet while working on the project. Setting several minor deadlines helps create a definitive work pace, which can help ensure you finish the project on time. In addition, multiple deadlines can inspire you to work harder as you see the individual due dates getting closer.

3. Eliminate as many distractions as possible.

Anything that pulls you away from your work - even momentarily - makes you less productive. By eliminating distractions like email, voicemail, and text notifications, you'll be better able to stay focused on the task at hand, allowing you to get more done. If you do turn off your regular notifications, remember to dedicate specific times during the day for checking your emails, voicemails, and texts. This way, you'll stay up to date with what's going on, so you won't accidentally miss out on anything important.

4. Schedule yourself breaks and don't skip them.

While holding extended work sessions may sound like an ultra-productive strategy, in reality, it usually isn't. Why? Because concentration and motivation start to suffer after working for too long without a break. Scheduled breaks give you a chance to recharge, so you can return to your project fresh and ready to work. A popular way of handling breaks is to schedule a 15-minute recess after every 90 minutes of work.

Boosting your productivity is vitally important if you don't want to struggle with insane last-minute workloads when your deadlines draw near. That's why, the next time you start a project, you should keep these productivity-boosting tips in mind from day one. By boosting your productivity, you'll be able to complete your projects earlier than expected, so you can focus on the other things you'd rather be doing.

How to enjoy reading

Introduction

March is National Reading Month! Let's usher in March 2022 with a new, or renewed, commitment to reading. If reading for pleasure is a foreign concept to you, you're certainly not alone. So many people, especially those in school, decide early on that reading is incredibly dull and not at all enjoyable. Can you really blame people for thinking that way, though? Not so much, considering most required reading materials are far from stimulating and generate little interest in their forced audiences.

That said, if you, too, have decided that reading is dull beyond compare, then maybe it's time to give reading for pleasure another chance. With nothing to lose and plenty to gain, there really is no reason not to give it a try.

This post is really two-pronged in focus. First, let's discuss a few suggestions for making the experience of reading more enjoyable. Next, we'll look at three tips that will help you read more books by maximizing your time more efficiently.

How to make reading for pleasure an enjoyable experience

1. Determine your preferred genres.

You aren't likely to find much pleasure in reading if you're reading books that don't interest you. That's why figuring out your preferred genres is essential for making reading for pleasure a pleasurable experience. If you aren't sure which genres you'd be interested in, then think about the types of shows you enjoy watching on TV. Odds are, you'll enjoy reading books from the same genre. There may even be a series of books based on your favorite TV show. And let's not forget about your other hobbies and interests here - there most likely exists some wonderful literature out there about them, too. If you like certain sports and sports history, for example; or if you collect anything, like stamps, postcards, sports cards, coins, etc.; chances are high you'll find some great reading material.

My favorite genres are in the non-fiction realm. I enjoy books, articles, magazines, journals, and newspapers that cover subjects like personal finance, entrepreneurship and business, minimalism, history, biographies, music, inventions, travel, philosophy, sociology, politics, economics, and the Roman Catholic faith. I often find that these non-fiction reading genres closely align with my TV-viewing habits, as well. I love non-fiction TV shows and documentaries focused on history, travel and cuisine, biographies, business and finance, inventions, etc.

2. Make the act of reading about more than the book itself.

Sure, reading a good book can be its own reward, but there's so much more you could be doing to make the experience exceptional. To get the most out of your reading experience, push it to the next level. Start by finding yourself a cozy nook for reading, then settle in with a delicious beverage and some tasty treats by your side. Reading for pleasure becomes more enjoyable when adding external factors that make you happy.

3. Set aside any books you aren't enjoying.

Nothing makes reading less fun than slogging through a book you aren't enjoying. So, to make reading for pleasure an enjoyable experience, set aside any books you aren't enjoying and move on to a new one. Of course, that doesn't mean you have to give up on the book forever. You can always return to it later when you're in a different mood. It's also worth mentioning that many books that start slow hit their stride several pages into the text. For this reason, you should always give each book enough time to draw you in before completely giving up on it.

While reading for pleasure might not sound like your cup of tea initially, it could be a far more enjoyable hobby than you realize. After all, with countless books covering every imaginable topic, there are plenty of books out there you'll enjoy reading. You just need to find them. So, if sometime in the past you convinced yourself that reading for pleasure isn't your idea of a good time, then maybe you should give it another try. Who knows, you might end up with another vastly enjoyable hobby to fill your spare time.

Three tips that will help you read more books

Reading is a great way to escape for a little while from the hustle and bustle of daily life, while also increasing your overall knowledge. To reap the benefits of reading, however, you'll need to take the time to read some books. So, what are some lifestyle changes that can help you increase your time spent reading? Read on to find out. Here are three tips that will help you read more books.

1. Bring a book with you everywhere you go.

Life provides many opportunities for reading. To seize these opportunities, keep a book nearby so you'll be ready to read whenever these moments occur. That way, you can reach for your book and do a little reading the next time you're sitting on the school bus, waiting at the doctor's office, relaxing in the break room at your place of work, or in study hall with no other work that needs to be done.

2. Make it a habit to read each night before bed.

Rather than browsing through your social media or loading up another episode of your favorite TV show before bed, make it a habit to read a book instead. Reading for fifteen minutes before bed each night may not feel like a lot of effort, but it will increase your time spent reading by over ninety hours per year. As a bonus, reading before bed can make your eyes feel tired, which might make it easier for you to fall asleep.

3. Don't be afraid to replace certain books with others.

As previously discussed, if the thought of continuing a book you aren't enjoying has put you off reading altogether, then don't be afraid to find another book. There's no point in forcing yourself to finish a book if it's causing you to procrastinate beyond a reasonable amount. Unfortunately, while this tip can help you read more overall, it can only be implemented while reading for pleasure. If you must read a specific book for work or school, you'll still need to push through it the best you can, no matter how much you dislike it.

Conclusion

While reading for pleasure may sound or feel somewhat strange to you initially, it has the potential to be a far more enjoyable hobby than you realize. There are countless books covering every imaginable subject. While this post is primarily focused on books, let's not forget other sources of reading and learning, too, like articles, magazines, journals, newspapers, and audio books. You most likely have favorite TV shows and/or other hobbies and interests you enjoy. Chances are highly likely that there is some wonderful reading material out there on these subjects, too. You just need to find them.

So, if sometime in the past you convinced yourself that reading for pleasure isn't your idea of a good time, then maybe you should give it another try. Who knows, you might end up with another vastly enjoyable hobby to fill your spare time. There is much to be gained by reading more. Fortunately, reading more is easy if you're willing to accept a few simple lifestyle changes. After applying the preceding strategies and tips to your daily routine, you'll be reading more in no time. Happy reading!

Better study habits

Introduction

Many people find studying to be an unpleasant, grueling experience. Because of this, some people choose to avoid their studies, leading to unnecessary stress later on when they ultimately fall behind on their lessons. So then, how can you make studying feel less grueling, so the simple idea of cracking a book or writing notes no longer fills you with dread? It's easy. Train yourself to learn more efficiently and creatively. Studying more efficiently speeds up the learning process, helping you avoid the negative feelings associated with inefficient study sessions. Learning to incorporate more creativity into your study sessions through the use of different study methods and materials may - ahem - even make studying more fun and interesting! Or at least more tolerable. C'mon, work with me here...

Following are a number of strategies and ideas to hack your future study sessions so you can learn more efficiently and creatively. Consider this post to be your complete guide to getting the most out of your study sessions. Feel free to bookmark it, come back to it from time to time, and share this information with others.

The Environment

Getting serious about studying: Three tips for having more efficient study sessions

When you have a lot of studying to do, it is vitally important to work efficiently. Otherwise, you might not have much to show for your efforts - even after an hours-long study session. That said, if you're ready to get serious about your studies so you can truly tackle the topic at hand, try implementing the following three study tips.

1. Find a suitable study environment.

It's hard to stay focused on your studies when you're in the wrong environment. That's why, if you need absolute silence to study efficiently, you should look for the quietest available space to hold your study session. On the other hand, if you find silence itself distracting - and some people certainly do - seek out a study location with enough background noise to keep you focused. Perhaps you need the TV or music going quietly in the background, or maybe you enjoy studying at your local coffee shop.

2. Get rid of distractions.

Distractions are nearly guaranteed to break your focus. To help maintain focus on your studies, mute your cell phone and stop checking your social media accounts. Save such distractions for after your study sessions or during your scheduled (and timed!) breaks. We'll get to the subject of breaks a little later on.

3. Only multitask when necessary.

You can accomplish quite a bit when you focus all your attention on a single subject. While tackling many subjects at once may seem more productive, the constant switching between topics can actually slow you down in the long run. Try keeping each study session focused on a single subject so you can make more substantial progress on it.

If you want to have more efficient study sessions, it's time to get serious about your studies. So, when you're ready to get serious, find yourself a suitable study environment, get rid of any distractions, and only multitask when absolutely necessary. By following these three tips, you'll increase your productivity levels by having more efficient study sessions.

The Note-Taking Process

Retain more of what you're studying by rewriting your notes

There are countless reasons why rewriting your notes helps you retain more of what you're studying - especially if you rewrite your notes by hand. After all, a thorough rewrite lets you revisit topics you may have forgotten, refreshing the details in your mind. Here are four tips to help you retain more of what you're studying while rewriting your notes.

1. Grab a pen and rewrite your notes by hand - and avoid word-for-word rewrites.

Though technology can be a helpful study tool, many people learn more efficiently when transcribing their notes by hand. There's just something about personally writing your notes by hand that helps commit the information to memory faster than typing notes on a computer or laptop. Additionally, it's unlikely that you'll remember much after mindlessly copying words from one sheet to another. So, to retain more of what you're studying, rewrite your notes to express the same concepts with different words. This exercise will force you to think critically about the content, making it more likely you'll remember the details long-term. If you can only squeeze in a short study session, then quickly review the topic in question and rewrite the most critical points from the lesson by hand. Remember, the faster you can memorize your notes, the more efficient your study sessions will become.

2. Expand upon or correct passages as needed.

It's easy to miss essential information when taking real-time notes during a quickly-paced lecture. Take a moment during the rewriting process to consult related books and handouts so you can expand upon your previously constructed notes. Also, correct any passages if you find that you've accidentally copied down incorrect information.

3. Summarize the content.

End each portion of your rewritten notes with a concise summary of the topic. In doing so, you'll both review the lesson and create a handy overview of the subject matter containing the lesson's most vital details. The summarized text may also prove helpful during last-minute cram sessions when you're unable to review your notes in full.

4. Read through your rewritten notes.

After rewriting your notes, spend some time reading over what you've just written. Better yet, read the pages aloud so you can both see and hear the details covered during your study session. By reading your newly-created notes, you'll better connect with the material, allowing more information to stick in your memory.

It's a well-known fact that using a range of study methods generally leads to the best results. That's why, if you're looking to hold a successful study session, you should always schedule some time for rewriting your notes. By incorporating this additional method into your study routine, you'll be more likely to retain what you're studying, giving you a leg up on your next test or exam.

Additional memorization strategies when it comes to utilizing your notes

There are many ways to commit information to memory. While certain memory aids and memorization techniques will likely work better for you than others, there's no harm in trying several methods during your study sessions. With each unique approach to memorization, you'll review your study materials another time, which can help solidify the information in your memory. In addition to reading notes aloud, consider trying some of these other popular techniques the next time you study: creating flashcard quizzes, coming up with clever mnemonics, and drafting mock exams. After learning which methods work best for you, you'll start having more efficient study sessions.

Taking Breaks: An Absolute Neccessity

Three reasons why taking breaks helps you study more efficiently

Studying non-stop may seem like a great way to be more productive, but having non-stop study sessions can often do more harm than good. Why? Because non-stop study sessions can lead to mental and physical fatigue, preventing you from effectively absorbing information. So, how can you prevent yourself from becoming mentally and physically exhausted during your study sessions? It's simple. Take regularly scheduled breaks. Here are three reasons why taking breaks leads to more efficient study sessions.

1. Taking breaks fends off mental fatigue.

Being mentally exhausted makes it harder to focus on your studies. Having less focus makes it more challenging to absorb the information you're trying to learn. Mental fatigue can also negatively affect your memory, making it harder for you to recall previously known information during tests or exams.

2. Taking breaks releases physical tension.

Studying in one position for too long can lead to muscle tension and body aches. When this happens, you may focus more on your aches and pains than the subject you are trying to study. By scheduling breaks to move around and stretch your muscles, you'll relieve built-up muscle tension, helping you maintain peak levels of concentration.

3. Taking breaks helps you change your perspective.

It's far too easy to get caught up in a single perspective if you never look up from your work. Taking a break lets you step back from the topic, giving your brain a chance to process the subject matter from different angles. Approaching a subject from various perspectives is also helpful because it leaves you with a more thorough understanding of the content.

When scheduling breaks in your study sessions, aim to take breaks lasting for between five and fifteen minutes following each hour of studying. If you're having trouble keeping track of when it's time to take a break, let an alarm notify you when your hour-long study segment is complete. Consider also using the alarm to announce the end of your rest period so that you can resume your study session at the appropriate time.

The Importance of Sleep and Nutrition

Taking excellent care of yourself

Nothing breaks a person's concentration during a study session like a rumbling stomach or feelings of fatigue. To study more efficiently, take excellent care of yourself by paying close attention to your eating and sleeping habits. Once you understand your behaviors, you can improve your routine wherever necessary. For example, to ensure you're eating well, make an effort to choose more nutritious foods. Also, do your best to avoid skipping meals whenever possible. As for resting, aim to get a solid night's sleep as often as you can - especially before a big test or exam.

Conclusion

There are many ways you can increase overall learning efficiency and creativity during your study sessions. For instance, you could try rewriting your notes by hand, utilizing various memory aids and memorization techniques, and taking extra care of yourself. Finding the right study environment is certainly important, as well. Hopefully, by implementing these study strategies and hacks described above, you'll find studying far more enjoyable and learning much more efficient and creative.

How to improve concentration

Three Simple Ways to Improve Your Concentration While Studying

It's easy to become so distracted that you can't properly concentrate on your studies. To give yourself the best chance of being productive during your study sessions, you may need to actively work on improving your concentration. Here are three ways that you can improve your concentration, so your study sessions will be far more effective.

1. Drown out chatter with white noise.

If nearby chatter is ruining your concentration, grab a pair of headphones and drown out the voices by listening to white noise. White noise should be less distracting than any conversations going on around you, so listening to it should help you concentrate on your studies. If you find the sound of white noise to be more off-putting than helpful, try listening to some subdued instrumental music while you study instead.

2. Don't be in a rush.

Being in a rush can make it hard to concentrate on your studies - especially if you are rushing through your studies to finish early so you can move on to more enjoyable activities. To maximize your concentration, slow down while you're studying so you can devote your full and undivided attention to each aspect of the task.

3. Remove obvious distractions.

Take a moment to think about the types of things that distract you the most. If your social media is what often breaks your concentration, then turn off your notifications or mute your devices. If it's the television that is constantly pulling you away from your studies, then turn it off so you can fully concentrate on the task at hand.

Studying is hard when you are unable to concentrate. That's why it is important to find and implement strategies that will help improve your concentration. By using white noise to drown out nearby chatter, not being in a rush, and removing obvious distractions from your immediate vicinity, you should have a much easier time concentrating on the task at hand while participating in future study sessions.

ACT test strategies

Once again, we're entering ACT test prep season. With it comes a slew of ACT practice tests, ACT tutoring, and helpful resource guides and strategies. Here are several previous posts I wrote, along with other resources pulled from the Internet, that may help you as you prepare for the test, in no particular order:

Are the ACT and SAT still needed?

Preparing for the ACT test

The importance of learning outside the classroom

Learning at home during school COVID closures

Flashcards a helpful study aid

Writing prompts for fun and practice

How to properly prepare for tests and exams

Better study habits

Building a general foundation first

Free math worksheets

Preparing for the science test on ACT

Preparing for the ACT test - Six strategies and methods to get you ready for the big day!

How to get more out of reading  

Reading comprehension skills (a longer essay by Aaron S. Robertson from June 2020)

"ACT Tips and Tricks to Reach Your Target Score" (from PrincetonReview.com)

"ACT Test Taking Strategies" (from EducationCorner.com)