Thought vs Thought
Why you should Written By: Gregory Choi Designed By: Janet Dhanoa
study alone
Whether you are typing away on a laptop, writing your lecture notes with pen and paper, or merely recalling a lecture, as students we all have different methods of studying for our classes. However, when it comes down to it, we either prefer to study on our own or with others in a group. So, what is the more effective option? Here we’ll discuss the benefits of studying on your own. One of the major advantages of studying on your own, is the fact that you can control and minimize your distractions. I'm sure you have all experienced setting up a study group with friends only to have gone hours getting to know more about the party that occurred last weekend than the course material in front of you. Studying on your own can minimize these distractions and while it definitely does come with the requirement to find that accountability to get started, once you can get past that barrier, effective studying can begin. One way to get past that barrier is to choose your environment carefully. Your environment plays a large role in the effectiveness of your studying, especially during remote learning where your classroom is often the same as your bedroom. Finding a space in which you feel comfortable yet alert is important. This can come in the form of
in your covers in bed with a hot drink, headphones in at a busy cafe, or a quiet space in a library in view of others doing the same. At the same time, however, your study environment should be void of distractions. Finding the motivation to study is difficult, so giving yourself the time to design an environment suited for you is vital. After all, if you hate noises, you will not be motivated to go study at a busy cafe. Lastly, it is important to take intentional breaks. Rather than getting distracted from a study group’s conversations, you have the freedom to begin and end your study break. This intention ensures that you use your break wisely. Drink water, stretch, look away from the screen for a bit (that includes your phone!) and just relax. This will help you re-enter your studying with a slightly fresher mind.
Studying is a skill that requires trial and error
7 | FOR BUSINESS STUDENTS, BY BUSINESS STUDENTS
