While there are several resources on the Web that offer advice on "what" you
should study (for the particular certification exam you are preparing for), not
many of these resource sites go into "how" you should study.
The study process can be broken down into many different stages, each with its
unique characteristics. However, key to all of these stages is the ability to
concentrate. Concentration, or the lack of, plays a big part in the study
process.
Let's look at some simple steps you can take to help focus your concentration
when studying for exams.
Why Did I Stop Studying?
Everyone needs a study break now and then. Pre-planned breaks are an important
part of the study process. It's the unplanned breaks, the moments when we are
jolted out of studying, that are the real killers.
External distractions are often to blame for stop-and-start studying. You have
to either create an environment that's conducive to studying, or seek out an
existing environment that meets the criteria (like a library or study hall). If
you can't get out to such a venue, here are some tips for creating an
appropriate study environment at home.
Do not study with the TV on.
These words should be chiseled in stone and mounted over your entertainment
center. Trying to maintain a decent level of concentration with a TV chirruping
in the background is like trying to install Win2K on a 386SX.
Create a Fortress of Solitude.
It worked for Superman, and it can work for you too. Having other people in the
room is an open invitation for distraction. If you are going to be studying
with anyone else present, have them treat you like the Invisible Man.
Interspersing studying with snippets of conversation is counter-productive.
Don't study in a concert hall.
There are varying opinions on whether it is better to study with or without
music playing. Some people study better in silence, while some find a totally
silent room a distraction in itself. If you are going to play music, most
experts agree that you should keep the volume on a low level and listen to
music without vocals in it.
Daydream Believer
Internal distractions are more difficult to pinpoint and address. They
basically fall into two different categories: Physical and Mental distractions.
Physical distractions are actually related to both internal and external
sources. Physical distractions include hunger, drowsiness, and discomfort. Here
are some things to be aware of.
Don't study on an empty stomach.
It's difficult to concentrate when your stomach is growling like a NASDAQ
stockbroker. At the same time, it isn't good to study after a large meal when
you are feeling sluggish. While studying, maintain your appetite with small,
high-protein snacks. As well, it goes without saying that imbibing alcohol
while studying is a bad idea. Stick with non-alcoholic beverages, and keep your
caffeine consumption to a reasonable level.
Don't study with your eyes closed.
When you're tired, your mental faculties are dulled and your ability to retain
information is blunted. Study during those times of day when you are most
alert. If you grow tired while studying, walk away from it. Do some stretches,
take a few deep breaths.
Find the optimal level of comfort.
The trick here is to find a position that is comfortable, but not so
comfortable that you become sleepy. A hard, uncomfortable chair will cause you
to shift and fidget; laying on the couch with a soft pillow may cause your eyes
to droop. As well, make sure that your study area is well lit (natural light is
best for fighting fatigue).
Mental distractions are the most difficult to overcome. Almost everyone's mind
wanders occasionally when they are supposed to be focusing on a task. The
important thing to remember is:
Never daydream and study at the same time.
Most of us have experienced the phenomenon of having read a page in a book or
magazine, only to realize that we have no clue what we just read. This happens
when your brain is working on too many information streams at once. When you
daydream and read at the same time, the information you are reading doesn't get
processed and stored properly.
Study material shouldn't be passively read. You should read it with a critical
eye, highlight important text, and take notes on concepts you don't understand
so that you can review them later.
Maintaining your focus during studying can be difficult. Just remember that if
your mind begins to wander, don't continue reading. Step back, give your head a
shake, and then resume reading.
By implementing these strategies for improving concentration, you can optimize
your studying and better prepare for your certification exams.
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