What are some study skills tips a tutor would give to a struggling student?

Question

What can I do to help myself study better? What would a tutor say to someone who is very far behind and getting discouraged?

Answer 1

Great question! I would say these are my top 3 tips to help students who haven't established a study routine for themselves yet:

1. Be patient with yourself. The fact that you are trying to help yourself means you are already on your way to success. Don't let setbacks discourage you too much because once you find the method that works for you, you'll be glad you never gave up.
2. Experiment as much as you can. Whether it's using classical background music, getting a flashcard generatiing app, or reading your study materials verbally, try anything you think might feel comfortable until you find what works. It'll feel silly at first but nce you find the conditions under which you learn best you'll be able to help yourself to reach your goals.
3. Don't be afraid to ask for help. If you feel you've hit a wall and nothing else is working, reach out to someone, like a tutor here, to help talk you through the issue you're having trouble with. A fresh set of eyes can be very helpful in these situations, and that person might have a technique you haven't tried yet that may work.

Best of luck,

Bri

Answer 2

First and foremost do not give up! A setback is minor and you can always set yourself up for a comeback. We are here to cheer you on! I would suggest the following tips:

1. Minimize all distractions. It is so easy to pick up your phone, click through the TV, etc. Find a quiet room or area you can study in.

2. I always tell my students to pretend their reading assignment is the most interesting story they've ever read. Don't dread it.

3. If you are taking notes incorporate handwriting. Writing your notes rather than typing increases retention.

4. Meet a study buddy or a tutor! Studies have shown that people are more likely to succeed with accountability.

5. Speak with your teacher or professor. They do not want to see you fall behind and will be happy to provide office hours and extra credit/help. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Remember your teacher was in your seat at one time and had their own set of struggles, they will do what they can to help you. You are never alone!

Most importantly always remember your end goal. Academic success and perseverance opens up many opportunities in your future. Start small and be kind to yourself.

Answer 3

Hello,

Learning methods, such as Time Management, Organization skills and Prioritizing skills might facilitate productivity and concentration.

Tangible reminders, including weekly schedules, post it notes, and daily planner can help prepare and plan for upcoming assignments and projects. As someone who struggled with attention, I found color coded schedules and daily reminders very helpful.

A second skill is organization. A common example is making a binder with different folders for respective classes

Another helpful technique is studying in short “chunks” of 30 minutes periods. In between these times, schedule intermittent 5 minutes mini breaks.

Hope that helps!

Answer 4

Wow! It is tough to struggle and very discouraging. Let's get back on track!

Step 1) Be sure you have had an appointment with your counselor to be sure you are in the right classes for you. Are the classes (or class) a bit too advanced? Is it time to drop back and try something a bit less challenging?

Step 2) Check out the tutoring center that your school offers. Match yourself up with someone you like that can help you with this subject.

Step 3) Determine if maybe your study style is not working. I recommend You Tube - Marty Lobdell - Study Less, Study Smart. He goes after many 'myths' that students have about study practices that are not true and also counterproductive.

Last - Talk to someone you can trust about what is going on. It really makes a difference to not feel alone in this thing!

Thanks, Courtney W., MA