I cram hideously because for some reason, studying and reading has become such a daunting task that I put it off and pull all-nighters at the last minute and although I am very smart, it is really REALLY hurting my gpa (3.3)..in high school I was 4.0 and I want to go back to the old days when I would cut the BS and just do it!
2007-03-03 20:36:27 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Social Science ➔ Psychology
Yeah, it does get harder! I have found that the best way for me to stick to a study program is through a rewards system.
I keep a study schedule. I use a calendar and note important exam dates, then start preparing for the tests weeks ahead of time. I take notes in class and outside of class I outline the key points in my texts for review. I set aside several hours each week to just go over the material and refresh my memory. I find that writing things out helps me to remember and I also draw diagrams, use colored highlighters, etc (I am a visual learner).
The rewards system works for me and here's how I do it. Say there's a new DVD or CD I can't live without. I might just go out and buy it but I will not crack the package until I have finished my study goals for the week. It is a reward for my study efforts. I treat myself to something nice ( a movie, ice cream, dining out) when I score well. If I don't do so great I won't treat myself to any films or goodies until I have caught up with my study schedule.
I may or may not work for you, but I find that small daily doses of learning are better retained. In fact, I remember the material when I learn and review repeatedly. If I cram for a test I might do all right~~~ but usually I've forgotten almost everything the next day. Think about it, would you want a surgeon operating on you if you knew the surgeon crammed for every medical exam and now had forgotten more than was ever learned?
I have to say that if you are "very smart" as you claim, then you should have the brains to apply some self-discipline and get your grades back up to the 4.0. It isn't easy and it doesn't get easier as you progress in your studies. But in the long run it will be worth it, and the discipline you learn can be applied to every aspect of your life, not just studies.
I am a grad student and this is just the tip of the iceberg !
Good luck and hang in there :-)
2007-03-03 21:22:59 · answer #1 · answered by yankiwi 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
just do the work first thing, right when you get home. and review for a short time a couple times the week before the class.
i have the same problem. this is how i'm trying to do it. I was really on things when I was in highschool and had a high gpa. For some reason, I can't concentrate in college. there's too much going on.
2007-03-04 04:45:41 · answer #2 · answered by Alexa K 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Procrastination is a lot like masturbation...it feels good at the time, but the truth is, either way, that you're only screwing yourself...
2007-03-04 06:27:30 · answer #3 · answered by michael.avery 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Try this book, "Eat That Frog." It's very helpful.
2007-03-04 04:43:41 · answer #4 · answered by Katherine W 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋