Learning how to best study for exams is a trial-and-error task. Some people just take notes and are good to go for whenever the exam is and others, like me, have to constantly work to find a study method that works. 

One method that I find especially helpful with learning and retaining terms for class, is the flash card method. You can use apps like Quizlet to create flash cards; however, physical flash cards can also help in the remembering process. The phrase “writing it down helps you remember better” is true for me! I also find that studying terms in sets is helpful. For example, studying two weeks' worth of material at a time is easier to manage than cramming seven weeks of material into one night. 

Another study method that I use is studying with friends. While we don’t always have class with our friends, studying in the same space together can make it easier to focus. Going to the library or the union with friends and locking in to study or do assignments together makes it a less daunting task. 

When studying with friends you can also run them through your notes, as if you were teaching the material. This usually helps me remember the material better than just studying the conventional ways. Plus, this is a fun way to tell your friends more about your major!

An underrated study method that might be the best is simply asking the teacher for help. Many times, I would be in class and confused, and I would almost never ask for help. I thought I would be able to go back, look at my notes, and “teach myself” the material. Many people might share this thought, but asking the teacher for help is really beneficial. Asking a professor for extra help understanding a topic, lets them focus on the specific things that were harder for me to grasp. They are always more than willing to help.

UIS also has an amazing academic support team called The Learning Hub. Here, you can get help with English, math, science and everything else! Overall, finding the best study methods for yourself takes some trial and error. Give these tips a try as you curate the best study methods for you. If you need help with assignments, make sure to ask a professor or stop by The Learning Hub!