Becoming a More Efficient Learner: The Study Cycle

The study cycle is a five-step approach designed to help students learn efficiently by creating a structured process for learning that is easy to apply to coursework. The steps are: Preview, Attend, Review, Study, and Check.

Step 1: Preview

• Objective: Understand the big picture before class.
• Actions:
  • Skim through your text, PowerPoint, or videos.
  • Note bold and italicized print, headings, formulas, graphs, and other images.
• Benefit: Prepares you for what you will experience in class, making it more comprehensible.

Step 2: Attend

• Objective: Engage actively in class.
• Actions:
  • Go to class and be present.
  • Take notes and ask questions to stay engaged.
• Benefit: Increases connection with the material and enhances class time effectiveness.

Step 3: Review

• Objective: Reinforce and clarify newly learned concepts soon after class.
• Actions:
  • Spend 8-10 minutes reviewing notes.
  • Fill in gaps, note any questions, and highlight important points.
• Benefit: Solidifies new concepts, boosting confidence.

Step 4: Study

• Objective: Engage with and process the material outside of class.
• Actions:
  • Dedicate regular study time between classes.
  • Use active learning strategies such as:
    • Summarizing
    • Concept mapping
    • Practicing problems
    • Group study
  • Ask critical questions like why?, how?, and what if?
  • Study in small, focused increments.

Step 5: Check

• Objective: Evaluate your learning and understanding.
• Actions:
  • Teach the material to someone else.
  • Quiz yourself or work on problems without notes.
• Benefit: Identifies areas needing more focus, allowing for adaptation before tests.

Conclusion

• The study cycle is designed to align with how the brain learns best, effectively moving information from short-term to long-term memory.
• Implementing this method leads to higher levels of learning and confidence.

Start applying the study cycle to become a more efficient and confident learner.