APU Careers & Learning

Translate Your Notes Into Keywords

One of my tricks for memorizing important details for a subject in class is to pick out “hot words.” These are the words that trigger a memory of a sentence in a novel, or a scientific process. So, instead of trying to memorize large chunks, treat it like a search engine would with SEO.

Separate Main Points

The best way to do this if you’re more visual is to take a stack of notecards, put the keyword on one side, and on the other as much relevant information to that word as possible. For example, if you have history test and you write Magna Carta on one side, the other should side should summarize its conception, purpose, and its effect on society. Be sure to cover all the topics your professor outlined throughout the semester, and then take your time reviewing just those cards. I found it easier to have small bites of information, as opposed to large sheets covered back and front with words and symbols.

Get Quizzed

Once you’re feeling confident about what you know, let your family quiz you! The more practice you get the better, and encourage them to ask you for in-depth information. It will improve your understanding on the topic, and relieve some of the stress that comes along with taking your test(s).

[related: 5 Ways to Use Your Tablet for Effective Study]

By: J. Mason

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