Alright, you've got a big test coming up--- what are you gonna do? How will you study for it?

Some students think that there's one magical technique that will help everyone learn,

but that is NOT the case. Sure, one strategy might work well for some, but it won't work for others

because we all learn in different ways. That's why it is so important to identify

your own personal learning styles and use study tips that work best for the way that you learn.

The most commonly identified learning styles are visual, auditory, and tactile or kinesthetic.

So, the first thing you need to do is find out which of these is YOUR learning style.

You might already have an idea of what your style is,

but we recommend taking a learning styles inventory to get a better picture.

There are a bunch of these available for free online,

just make sure you pick one from a reliable website, like this one from EducationPlanner.org.

Answer each question as honestly as you can and see what results you get.

If you discover that you're a visual learner,

that means you mostly learn by reading and seeing pictures or diagrams.

With that in mind, here are some studying tips to try:

Tip #1: Avoid visual distractions while studying.

Turn off the TV or Netflix,

and face away from windows or doorways to focus better.

Tip #2: Use colorful highlighters to make text stand out.

Consider using different-colored highlighters to identify different types of information

so that you can SEE the differences easily while you study the text.

Tip #3: Use flashcards for key definitions and explanations.

That way when the test comes, you can see in your mind what the card looked like and remember the facts.

Tip #4: Watch instructional videos like the one you're watching right now.

You can look for useful videos on websites like YouTube or Khan Academy

that specifically cover the concepts that you're working on in class.

If you discover that you're an auditory learner,

that means you learn more from speaking and listening.

If that's the case, try these tips:

Tip #1: Speak up in class.

Sometimes it can be intimidating, but asking questions

and participating in class discussions will really help you lock in key information.

Tip #2: When you do settle in to study, avoid auditory distractions.

Find a quiet place to study in, silence your cell phone

and either turn off your music or set it to something that won't distract you,

like a soft instrumental track or some white noise.

Tip #3: Read your notes or textbook sections out loud to help you better remember the content.

You can even record yourself doing this on your phone and then listen to it later.

Tip #4: Watch instructional videos. I know we suggested this for visual learners,

but the great thing about videos is that they're also really good for auditory learners since

you can HEAR the explanations and examples.

If you find that you're a tactile or kinesthetic learner,

that means you learn best by touching or doing.

Here are some tips if this is you:

Tip #1: Take frequent but quick breaks.

You probably have a fairly short attention span when you're trying to just sitting there trying to study,

so break up that study time by spending a few minutes walking around or stretching every once in a while---

just make sure you come back before too long.

Tip #2: When you do come back and you review your notes or textbook,

try to tie the content to real-world examples.

You'll remember things better when you connect information to actions.

Tip #3: Do something physical while studying, nothing super distracting like jumping jacks,

but fiddling with a rubber band, squeezing a stress ball,

or even tapping a pencil could help keep your mind focused.

You might find that you have traits that are from a couple of different learning styles,

and that's pretty normal, so don't be afraid to try new study techniques to see what helps you.

The key is to embrace your strengths and recognize your weaknesses

so that you can get the most out of your studying and ace that test.

Want to learn more tips for succeeding in college?

Stop by the Learning Center at YOUR HACC campus to talk to a tutor.

And don't forget to check out our other cool online videos. See you next time!

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