As students progress from kindergarten to high school or university, they all encounter the experience of being a student. While becoming a student may not be challenging for most, achieving excellent grades is a different matter. The key difference lies in their study habits, which greatly impact academic success. Unfortunately, many students lack effective study habits during their school journey. However, if you aim to attain high scores, cultivating good study habits can substantially increase your chances of reaching your goals.
Improving our study habits can be achieved in three stages: developing learning habits, utilizing four study skills, and comprehending the advantages of good habits. Initially, students should focus on developing an effective way of learning. It is surprising that many of them are unaware of their lack of proper study habits. An article titled “Why ‘good’ study habit may be bad for learning” (2010) suggests several strategies: creating a quiet workspace, adhering to a homework schedule, setting goals and boundaries, and avoiding the use of bribes. However, this approach to studying at home may not be reliable due to dubious educational research. This article challenges our conventional understanding of study habits, implying that our traditional concept may be incorrect. Therefore, one might wonder what constitutes good study habits. According to the source “Encourage and teach good study habits” (1998), good study habits involve establishing a consistent study time that accommodates the student’s familial commitments, eliminating distractions, gathering necessary materials, recording assignments in an assignment book or calendar, and practicing note-taking and organization for exams. While some individuals lack complete study habits, others possess good habits but often succumb to giving up.
Therefore, maintaining these habits is a crucial aspect of our personal growth and the development of good study habits (Personal goal setting for success). Setting goals is a key skill that helps us achieve our desires and enhances the likelihood of success. Furthermore, taking action in alignment with our plans is essential in turning our dreams into reality. As such, my personal goal is to maintain my scholarship at Ashland University, which necessitates maintaining a GPA of at least 3.0.
To achieve better grades, it is important for me to study hard. One crucial skill for studying is time management. According to Tanriogen & Iscan (2009), time management is essential for maximizing the quality of learning within the limited time available. Various techniques can be used to manage time effectively. One such technique is the pomodoro technique, which is based on the idea that simple time-management tools, frequent breaks, and a change in mindset about time can improve concentration and reduce anxiety (Shellenbarge, 2009). While the pomodoro technique is easy to understand and practice, it has a narrow focus. Another useful technique is FranklinCovey’s Focus, which aims to help individuals eliminate non-essential tasks and focus on their most important goals (Shellenbarge, 2009).
There are three effective time management skills for students. The first is prioritizing tasks, which involves dividing important and not important things, allowing us to save time for more meaningful activities. The second method is called “getting things done,” in which we write down our goals and create a flowchart that includes an action list, a project schedule, and reminders (shellenbarge, 2009). Finally, the third skill is previewing and reading. It is crucial for every student, especially international ones, to read the lecture material before class to improve their vocabulary.
If you are familiar with the vocabulary in your lecture, it can be difficult to comprehend what the teacher is discussing. Unfortunately, previewing the material is not always effective. Often, the teacher’s outline does not encompass all of the content in the books, and they still expect students to read them. For instance, my marketing teacher occasionally poses questions before starting a new chapter. Then, at the end of the chapter, she would send out a lecture to incentivize us to read. Many bright students do not waste much time on reading and instead focus on carefully reviewing the first and last paragraphs of each chapter.
According to Seebach (2009), recalling information is the final skill in improving study habits. Many students may not like using this habit until they have an upcoming exam. However, recall helps us constantly strengthen our knowledge and is particularly effective when learning a foreign language. Seebach (2009) provides data showing that students who repeatedly study words without self-testing only recall 10% to 60% of the words after one week, compared to 3% to 95% for students who extensively use self-testing after practice sessions. This demonstrates that forgetting is common in the learning process, and self-testing is an effective way to improve memory retention. Additionally, the use of study habits brings benefits. One of the most notable benefits is gaining confidence. By understanding and practicing good study habits, we not only become organized in our studies but also experience positive outcomes in other areas of life. For instance, if you study hard and achieve excellent grades upon graduation, you may have more opportunities compared to others.
Having good study habits can simultaneously provide organization and assistance in navigating life’s challenges. It enhances reasoning skills, enabling a better understanding of priorities and effective problem-solving. Additionally, good study habits promote efficiency, with time being the most crucial aspect. As Hong (2010) stated, planning and adhering to a study schedule in advance saves time. Ultimately, adopting good study habits contributes to achieving success expeditiously.
In summary, there are three stages that can help us develop effective study habits. Despite the belief that some people do not possess good study habits, it is still possible for them to achieve positive results. In comparison to individuals with good study habits, they dedicate a significant amount of time to studying. However, it is important to note that schools offer various extracurricular activities beyond academics. Nevertheless, having good study habits is the most advantageous methodology for ensuring efficient learning and also enjoying student life. Starting with the adoption of effective study habits, one can transition into being a student with excellent grades, thereby increasing their chances of success compared to others.
