We all know that we don’t necessarily like to study, it’s hardly an enticing activity – especially if you’re not interested in the specific topic area. Although studying, revising, and writing up assignments may feel like a boring task, the best way to overcome this is to just get started and do not hesitate!
So why is it better to throw yourself into the deep end? Surely, this is a very daunting notion and surely, it’ll be counterproductive, right? Well, maybe not!
Starting your assignments straight away and early will reduce anxiety levels. Being presented with a large volume of materials and information to have to learn and retain can cause high levels of anxiety. It is said that around 41% of experienced anxiety is from those who feel, or are, overworked.
Additionally, those who are subject to large amounts of work are more likely to develop mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. By tackling this material immediately will instantly reduce the volume and therefore reduce your anxiety levels as you know you’re already managing it and you’re aware there’s less and less left to do as you go. You’ve effectively beaten the slog!
The same thing goes for stress. Imagine how stressed you may feel if you’ve left everything until the last minute, or even halfway through depending on the volume of information you are given across modules. By starting early, you don’t have to feel stressed because you know you’re in control and this mountain of work is now just a walk in the park – you’re strolling not struggling.
Although yes. Studying is hard work, there’s no doubting that but, don’t worry about the word ‘study’ when you’re jumping right in – it doesn’t have to feel like studying! If you feel in control the work isn’t going to feel quite as hard as you’re no longer feeling the pressure of cramming everything in.
Getting started on your essays and assignments:
- Start with the easier, or most interesting, area first. This will build your studying momentum quickly.
- Remember to always apply the ‘chunking’ technique.
- Always remind yourself that starting sooner will reduce your stress levels later. Having as clear of a mind as possible will support you to produce your best work.
- Utilise planning and mind mapping tools to aid your studying.
- Studying doesn’t need to feel like studying.
Getting started on your studying for examinations and test:
- Review and repeat. Repetition is one of the best ways to increase information retention and memory which is essential in an examination.
- The earlier you start revising for your exam, the more time you have to find the best way you remember the information you need.
- Carry out daily reviews of your notes. Little and often works well when studying and revising.
- Be tactical. Spread out your revision time across the term but be mindful of other deadlines for coursework or other exams that may be planned.
- Aim to write with simplicity and honesty. Simple and honest knowledge on the paper is often the best writing style.
