7 smart self-study tips for you!

The COVID-19 pandemic has boosted the digitalization of the educational industry. As a result, there is no dearth to the amount of information available to students. Using this information wisely and systematically is becoming significantly easier, allowing you to learn by yourself. This is birthing, an era of self-study, a strategy that can let you take the reins of your learning process. Compared with traditional classroom learning, self-study can be an excellent way to make the most of your learning experience. 

Keep reading to discover 7 helpful tips to create the best self-study routine for yourself! 

Self-studying is an excellent method that allows you to go beyond simple training and teachers. By practicing the skill of self-study, you can delve deeper into the topics that interest you and take your time to work on concepts that are more complicated. 

The result is stronger study skills and learning habits that can contribute to your knowledge acquisition. 

Here are some tips to refine your self-study process – 

Set realistic goals 

The first key to effective self-study habits is to set realistic goals. Establish what you would like to achieve before you start your study session. A realistic goal will allow you to complete exactly what you need to in a specified time frame. 

You can set a goal that is based on your commitments and learning habits. For example, you can establish an objective to allocate time every day to reading one chapter of a subject. 

Setting a reasonable goal will also allow you to make sense of your workload and prioritize your responsibilities accordingly. 

Study different subjects 

Use your allocated self-study time wisely and divide the same across different subjects, rather than focusing on a single topic. Spreading your learning across different concepts can significantly increase effectiveness, productivity, and output. 

Scholars recommend ‌you study two or three subjects every day, instead of allotting one week to a single subject. This allows you to cover a wide range of concepts, while also improving your productivity in each subject. 

Spending too much time on a single subject can contribute to feelings of boredom and an eventual loss of interest, which is best avoided. 

Experiment with different ways of learning 

Staring at textbooks day in and day out can get monotonous and hamper your overall learning experience. Therefore, trying to find new and innovative ways to learn during your self-study sessions can be a great way to keep things interesting and exciting. 

Research studies indicate that different ‌media can stimulate different areas of the brain. They also improve learning abilities and are associated with heightened brain activity.

In this age of technology, there is no limit to the ‌resources you can use to study. For example, consider mixing up your learning material by watching video tutorials, reading digital books, and playing interactive educational games. 

Avoid multitasking 

A common misconception in the global student community is that multitasking can help you achieve a lot in less time. However, research suggests that multitasking can be very distracting and result in lesser levels of productivity. 

The secret to making the most of your self-study sessions is to focus on what you wish to accomplish, one task at a time. Therefore, try resisting the urge to check your social media feeds, text your friends, eat, or watch television. 

If you use the internet to study, consider having a secondary device that is only used to access study materials and e-learning applications. 

Make notes by hand 

Hand-written notes are popular for a reason! These are often the best way to allow your brain to absorb and process information that you gather with self-study. Making notes is not the same as textbook & classroom notes. 

Note-making involves the process of taking in and reproducing bits of information in your own words. This significantly contributes to improved concept clarity and understanding. You are, therefore, processing what you write and not just cramming information mindlessly. 

Take small and frequent breaks 

One of the best ways to make the most of your self-study sessions is by not cramming too much learning into a single stretch. Instead, consider taking a quick break every 35 to 40 minutes. 

During your break, you can eat a light snack (avoid heavy food as it can make you feel sleepy), take a walk, and practice deep breathing. Remember to engage in activities that do not tire out your mind. Watching television or playing video games can hamper your overall learning and distract you from successfully accomplishing your self-study goals for the day. 

Create a personalized study space 

Finally, a space that is dedicated to self-study is a space that will allow you to be at your most productive! 

Choose a well-lit and quiet corner that will fit a study desk and a high chair. Stock up on stationery and notepads, and keep a bottle of water by your side that you can reach out for as and when you feel thirsty during your session. 

You can even consider adding a pinboard to put up motivational quotes, ideas, and a timetable that you would like to stick to for the duration of your study hours. 

A small potted plant in your study space can also do wonders in creating the right environment for effective self-study. 

Key takeaways 

• Self-study as a learning method is fast growing in popularity post the COVID-19 pandemic. 
• This is primarily because self-study allows you to take the reins with regard to your learning habits, allowing you to become more responsible and efficient. 
• Adopting the above tips can be an excellent way to create a study routine that is suited to your requirements and deadlines. 

Did you enjoy this blog? If yes, please share your thoughts in the comments below. Click here to reach out to us for more information on effective self-study tips! We would be happy to assist you with your queries! 

Liked this blog? Read next: How to choose a good study table 

FAQs 

Q1. How often should I conduct a self-assessment? 

Answer – You can conduct a self-assessment immediately after you complete your learning through mock tests, sample papers, and small quizzes. These will give you an idea of your progress and help you identify areas that need to be addressed. 

Q2. Can self-study boost my self-esteem? 

Answer – Absolutely! As you engage in self-study practice, you will become a confident learner who is able to learn new concepts without any help. This can significantly boost your self-esteem. 

Q3. What is the biggest motivation for studying?

Answer – Curiosity is regarded as one of the biggest motivators for students to learn. Self-study allows you to choose the topics you are interested in and excited to learn about, stimulating your curiosity.