1. Learn from general to specific – before learning something new, get a generat overview to use as a framework on which to hang specific details and examples

2. Make it meaningful – Why is this information relevant? What is the value in knowing this?

3. Create associations – relate what you’re learning to something that you alsready know; use analogies and metaphors

4. Learn actively – manipulate and change the information in some way (ex. Create mind maps, diagrams, pictures, note cards)

5. Reduce interference – turn off music, study in quiet place, let the machine get your phone messages, put a note on your door that says you’re studying, etc.

6. Self-monitor what you’ve learned – check yourself to make sure that you’re learning (self-test using review questions, note cards, etc.)

7. Check your attitude and anxiety – know when your attitudes and/or anxiety are inhibiting learning

8. Turn abstract ideas into concrete examples – what is a real-world example of this complex concept?

9. Distribute learning – use many short sessions for studying instead of one marathon session right before the exam

10. Remember something else – when you get stuck and can’t remember something, try to remember something that is related

11. Stay away from studying similar topics at the same time – this may lead to confusion

12. Use mnemonics, or memory techniques – create acronyms, songs, weird associations, etc.

13. Avoid studying material in the same sequence – occasionally start at the end or the middle