As we head into exam season, we have a post from ex-blogger Krishna about how we can boost our grades and get better exam results. Krishna has even developed an App to support revision and productivity.
By Krishna Bellamkonda.
Hello readers! It’s so good to be back on the Study Blog. If you don’t know me, I am Krishna, an ex-blogger here. I have been following the recent blogs and it’s been great to read such insightful articles. I appreciate the entire team for turning the blog into an invaluable source of inspiration and motivation for us.
Let’s start off by asking the question – what leads to better grades? Is there one right answer? Let me help you find a perspective on the same.
During my time as a research assistant for the UNESCO Global Education Monitoring project, I asked teachers what the common traits of high-performing students were. There were three recurring points in their answers.
Hardworking students perform well but efficient students perform better
I consciously avoided the word ‘smart’ here because there really isn’t any smart shortcut for better results. However, working hard, as in devoting a significant portion of your time to the task isn’t the key. What really matters is how you use the time. Are you producing value out of this time?
Hence, it is imperative to become conscious of the time we are spending on a certain task. In this regard, the ‘Pomodoro technique’ is a good solution. Basically, any method that helps you become aware of the time you are spending is beneficial.
A good study method is one that you are comfortable with
When a dress isn’t fitting you, the solution is to try another one. Similarly, if something’s not working for you try something else. The trick is to figure out what works for you. Find a study method and modify it to fit you. This is what the teachers say. The top performers usually have a unique and personally suited style of studying.
Adding on to this point, a good study method is something that is repeatable. Pick something that doesn’t completely tire you out. This way, you gain a sense of progress which in turn keeps you going.
Consistency is Key
The cliche is right in this context. Results are often a consequence of discipline. So, if you feel you’ve found a good method for you, stick with it. Put in the work and repeat the process. Over time, you should see your effort fructify.
As they say, 15 minutes of practice four times is better than 1 hour of practice at a go. Think of it like hitting the gym. The more consistent you become, the more gains you achieve. If there’s anything you want to take away, it is this.
Action Plan
- Find a study method that you are comfortable with. (highlighting, attempting practice quizzes, flashcards etc. ) Modify it to suit your study style.
- Finding a good method, it is about putting in the effort. Remember, discipline is important for achieving good results.
- Become conscious about the time you are spending on each task. The goal is to become better at studying. Quality of your work matters, not the quantity. Your aim should be to get the most utility out of the time you spend.
What if I said there’s a simple way to implement all that you’ve learnt? I introduce to you Foresight – a study productivity app that helps you achieve all this and much more. With its informative visualizations and stats, you can track your progress and productivity. Also, the study tools such as self-quizzes and acronyms make studying frictionless. Check out the app for Android here (unfortunately the IOS version is not yet developed but will be available soon), and take a look below for some of Foresight’s study functions:
I also encourage you to join our social groups which provide you with regular tips and keep you motivated.
Instagram, Facebook Page, Twitter
If you want to check out more of Krishna’s articles, you can find them all here.
Will you be downloading Foresight? Which of these tips will you be implementing? Let us know by tweeting us @warwicklibrary, by messaging us on Instagram @warwicklibrary or by emailing us at libraryblogs@warwick.ac.uk
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