Are you having trouble remembering information when you take a test? Do you feel overwhelmed with the amount of material you need to learn? Information stored in short-term memory can begin to decay within a short time unless effort is made to place the material in long term memory. Research indicates that unless you review within 24 hours, 80% of the material can be forgotten. By reviewing information as soon as possible you will not only increase the amount of material you will remember, but you will also decrease the hours of study needed before an exam.



In a nutshell, this is probably the most important tip of all; That is, to go home and review as soon as possible what you have heard and learned in class. Otherwise, 80% of what was learned will be forgotten within 24 hours! So, as soon as you can after class, review the class notes or the related chapter text.

When you do this type of review, you may have the satisfying experience of ideas relating, making sense, and fitting together for you. Sometimes it feels like light bulbs are going on in your brain when these connections are made. And that's the good side.

The other side is that this requires self-discipline and requires planned effort. Yes, you need to have a properly planned study schedule. But it is a rewarding learning experience and I recommend it to you. This may also be done in reverse and this may also be easier. Immediately prior to a class, read the chapter text material that will be covered in the lecture that day. You will be one of the few students who will understand the lecture, be able to answer questions, ask questions and thus participate. And you will feel "real" knowledgeable. This has an instant positive feedback effect and will also enable you to retain more information. So, schedule daily study time and schedule one or the other of these techniques into your planned study time.