Different people like to study in different ways. While some people like reading aloud, others cannot imagine learning anything that way. Some people like to write down notes; others like to listen to music while studying and the like. But, not all study habits are good. Some habits take up a lot of time and attention that would otherwise be diverted towards study. Here are a few common bad study habits and their solutions:

Studying in groups – This is a great way to share ideas and exchange information, but the problem is that there are chances of diverting from the subject. What started as a discussion of Newton’s law may end up as a discussion on the latest trends in hairstyles. Don’t make group study your primary way of studying. Engage in group discussions and don’t hesitate to help those who are struggling with a particular subject, and don’t also hesitate to ask for help either. But after that, spend time going through your notes and you should also study alone in your own way.

Studying in places with lots of distractions – Your environment determines how well you can concentrate on a particular subject. Don’t study in rooms which are too hot or too cold. Don’t use chairs which are uncomfortable. Don’t choose to study in rooms which are situated in noisy and active locations. The library or a quiet spot in your home or garden is a good place to get some serious studying done.

Eating and drinking alcohol while studying – If you tend to feel hungry while studying, snack on something light and healthy. Eating heavy and fat filled meals makes you lethargic and sleepy, not to mention the unhealthy calories you will be piling up. Alcohol is a strict "No-No" while studying. But stay hydrated by drinking lots of water or fresh juice.

Playing music while studying – Music has been known to soothe and relax. As a matter of fact, some people feel that they can concentrate better when they listen to music. But music may interfere with your concentration. If you absolutely must listen to music, play it on low volume and go in for plain music without lyrics. That won’t distract you as much as music with lyrics.

Leaving things for the last minute – You may tend to put off studying something in the hope of cramming up later. But last minute studying is not effective. You will not be able to grasp the subject matter nor will you be able to retain it. Being flooded with a truckload of information at the last minute adds to your stress levels too. After you return from school or college, go through the day’s notes and finish assignments regularly. This way, you won’t have to rush at the last minute.

Doing several things simultaneously – Are you the kind who makes breakfast and goes through your notes at the same time? This is a bad study habit. You will be distracted and nothing you read is going to register in your brain. Set aside some time each day exclusively for studying. Don’t engage in anything else during this time. Other tasks can be attended to do later.

These are few common bad study habits. They interfere with retention and processing of information. So, if you fall into one of these categories, it is up to you to do something about it. Bad study habits need to be broken. Only then will you be able to make the most of your time and efforts at studying.

Jason Ladock

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