Learning Resources

Effective studying requires more than simply rereading even the best notes. The most effective learning strategies are ones that make you think deeply about and engage with the information. To get you started, review 5 effective study techniques you can try today or review the FAQ guide below.

How often should I study?

Shorter, regular study sessions are more effective than one, potentially stressful, cram session the day before a test. Research also shows that spacing study helps students retain information. Even if cramming produces some short term gains, course units often build on each other, making future assignments and tests more difficult. One of the best habits for longterm learning you can adopt is to practice daily. Productive practice can include reviewing class notes, reading textbook chapters, completing practice problems, and testing your knowledge of the material. 

How should I prepare for a test?

• Step 1: Make a plan

The more time you spend preparing in advance, the more confident you will be going into your exam. Create a study schedule with all of the test topics; then, use each day of your calendar leading up to the test to plan what you will study and when. Here’s an example of a study schedule for final exams.

• Step 2: Organize materials into Practice Tests

Ideally, your upcoming test or exam will not be the first time you’ve been tested on the material. Use the test topics you gathered in Step 1 to select related questions from your homework, notes, textbook, or other resources. Compile them into an exam-like document, create flashcards, or organize a study guide. Design your compilation so that it simulates test questions and encourages active recall rather than rereading.

• Step 3: Practice

Set aside time to simulate the exam experience. Find a quiet space, put away your notes, phone, and other distractions, and attempt each of the questions you collected earlier. Treat this experience as you would the exam by not using any materials that would not be permitted during the real exam. This process helps you honestly assess your current understanding and know what topics to seek help for. 

• Step 4: Evaluate your progress

Identify which questions, topics, or skills you have mastered and those you are still working on. Moving forward, spend more time on the areas you are still learning, but review all related questions at least once during each study session if possible.

What if I have test anxiety?

Being nervous before an exam is normal. The more you practice effective study techniques, the more likely you will begin to feel progressively more confident and less anxious. An academic coach at the ASC would be happy to meet with you and discuss test anxiety along with learning techniques that may help you feel more prepared. 

The OU Counseling Center may also be able to help. Join a support group or give them a call at (248) 370-3465 to set up a one-on-one appointment.

Use the time calculator to reflect on how you are organizing your time in a typical week and to make plans to effectively manage your time. 

1. Enter the number of credits you are taking. The calculator will automatically calculate your class and study time, based on two hours of study per hour in class. If you have any science courses, you'll want to strive for three hours. 
2. Enter the number of hours you spend on other activities. The calculator assumes that you will be getting eight hours of sleep each night. 
3. Adjust your time as needed to achieve sustainable balance. Small changes can make a big difference!

How can I organize my time and be more productive?

Create an organization system that works for you. Here are a few tips:

• At the beginning of each semester, add all important dates, assignments and exams to your calendar.
• Before the beginning of a new week, take some time to go over what you have due and make a plan/to-do list to accomplish your tasks. For instance, if you have a paper due on Friday, what can you do each day so that your paper is completed by the deadline?
• Be specific when you plan. Instead of writing down “study for Biology”, write down “review chapter 12 textbook and quiz questions for Biology exam”. 
• Plan to work on more than one subject a day to avoid burnout.
• For your most difficult courses, plan to review and study information at least 3-4 times a week.
• Schedule time to do your class readings to better understand the material.
• For finals, plan to start studying two weeks in advance, and add chapters you want to cover each day to your calendar. Here’s an example. 

How can I overcome procrastination?

There are a few reasons we procrastinate. Before you can create a strategy, reflect on why you might be procrastinating. Then consider strategies aligned with that reason that might help you get the tasks done. 

• Reason 1: The task is overwhelming.

Break up large tasks into smaller, specific tasks. When planning for a big research paper, for example, instead of the task, “work on paper,” create a list of steps to complete your paper, such as review 3 articles, write thesis statement, write introduction, etc.

• Reason 2: I have too many things to do and seem to always run out of time to complete my to-do list.

This typically happens because of poor time management. The first step is to create a system for staying organized, like using a planner or digital calendar). An academic coach can help you create a system that works for you!

It’s also possible that you truly do have too many things to do. Use the time management tool to evaluate your commitments. Then, consider meeting with a coach and/or your academic advisor to review together.

• Reason 3: I have a hard time getting started.

Set a smaller goal. For example, identify just one preliminary task or commit to spending just a few minutes reviewing. Once you make a few small, manageable starts, the bigger project will feel more feasible. 

The Pomodoro technique is a specific strategy that can also help you make those small, manageable starts! Here’s how to do it:

1. Make a list of things to get done today and choose a task to work on first.
2. Set a timer for 25 minutes.
3. Work on the task for the set time with no distractions (no peeking at your phone either!)
4. When the timer goes off, take a 5 minute break.
5. Repeat this 4 times for 2 hours of focused time! Take a longer 15-30 minute break after.

Taking effective notes can positively support your success in a course. But some note-taking strategies are better than others. Note-taking includes what you record while you read and prepare, what you choose to write down during class, and how you organize your thoughts after class. As a rule of thumb, the best strategies encourage active listening or reading and will facilitate effective study later. 

Should I complete the assigned reading before or after class?

Reading before class will help you have a better understanding of what the professor will cover and will help you focus on the most important aspects of the material. If you are not able to complete the reading before class, do not stress. Spend 15 minutes skimming the information as a “mental warmup” for class. Then, read the chapter after you have attended class.

How can I get the most out of my textbook readings?

While college textbooks can feel intimidating, they are an important resource. Turn reading into an effective study and preparation strategy using this 3-step process.

Should I take notes while I read?

Yes! But don’t write just anything down. Identify some of the key questions the chapter should help you answer. You might find these questions in the course syllabus, in lecture notes if your professor posts these on Moodle, or at the beginning of an assigned textbook chapter. When you find the answers to these questions or important concepts related to them, include these in your notes! Avoid taking notes on “autopilot,” which will lead to less useful notes. 

What are some tips for effective note taking?

This resource by the Center for Excellence in Teaching and Learning provides some helpful tips.

Virtual learning has many benefits like flexibility, but it also presents some unique challenges. An academic coach can help you make a plan for effective learning in asynchronous or synchronous virtual learning.

You can also visit Online Learning Resources for Students

How do I use Moodle and other technology for my classes?

The OU Student Guide for Online Learning provides information about using Moodle and virtual classes.

How can I do well in virtual classes?

• Consider the space you will be in when logging into synchronous class sessions. 
• If it’s a space in your home, stage the space to inspire your attention. A desk or table with as few distractions as possible is ideal. 
• If you need to log in from a public space, choose somewhere you would be comfortable turning on your microphone to participate in class.
• Create a routine for preparing for and attending your online classes just like you would a regular class. Set aside time during your week to: 
• complete readings
• review course materials
• engage in discussion forums
• work on assignments
• study for quizzes and tests 
• When possible, find a place free of distractions to complete your work. Using noise cancelling headphones can help when working in a public location.
• Study with the same effort for an online class as you would for an in-person class.
• Take advantage of any academic support services available such as faculty office hours, tutoring, and Supplemental Instruction. 

If given the choice, should I take an online class?

Many students are surprised to learn that online classes are not necessarily “easier” than traditional in-person classes. While online classes can provide flexibility and can be a great learning experience, they require significant organization and discipline.

What are the different types of online classes?

There are two types of “fully online classes”: synchronous and asynchronous.

In synchronous classes, students are expected to log in and engage in live, virtual class sessions at the days and times listed on your course schedule. This is similar to an in-person class experience but is conducted virtually.

In asynchronous classes, all class materials are loaded into Moodle, and students review videos and readings largely on their own time, without live interaction with the instructor or classmates.