Study, Study...Study!

Homework is the same as studying, right?  

By no means is it the same.  Sure, there are similarities just like glue is similar to peanut butter, they are both strong substances but you do not want to have a glue and jelly sandwich.  Homework and studying are similar because they are both related to learning.  Many confuse the two.  The difference between homework and studying is very clear.  Homework is work assigned to be finished outside of class.  Study is the application of gaining knowledge.  Studying can be done through reading, reflecting, and investigating topics to be applied and tested. 

Why is studying important?

As time goes by, one needs to be active with learning and obtaining knowledge to further the brain's true potential.  Knowledge is something that no one can take from you.  You can always gain more.  Studying is a tool, a skill, and a way to receive knowledge.  Just like a brush is a tool for painting, studying is a tool for learning.  Homework is great but when you confuse it with studying, that is where the purpose of studying is not seen in it's fullest.  If you came across a person hammering a nail into a plank of wood but used the other end of the hammer, most likely you would think that they would be misusing such a tool.  Homework should not be done without studying.  You can study without doing homework.  Just because homework is not assigned does not mean that studying should not be done.  

How do people study when they do not have homework?

Studying has many forms.  I am no longer in school but I am doing a lot of studying about China, Chinese culture, and the Chinese language.  You can study in many different ways that works for your learning style.  Each person has an unique way of learning.  You have to be dedicated to learn when you don't have an assignment.  You can't put zero effort into something and expect to be great.  Remember that studying is a skill, just like playing the piano or swimming.  I am sure not everyone was a master at swimming when they first started to learn how.  Studying is a skill that needs to be learned and perfected to fit the person.  That means that the more a person studies, the better they will be at studying and learning.  

Do I have to study all the time?

This is a question I get asked a lot.  I even asked myself that when I was a child.  Humans are creatures of habit.  We love to do what makes us feel comfortable and what is easy.  We fall into the swing of our habits.  When studying is not a habit of yours, you will find that it is hard for you to study and want to study.  Effort is needed to study, to be dedicated to your own knowledge and personal growth.   Each person has their free will to study or not to study but the true question has yet to be made.  Do you think that it is fair to your own mind to not be dedicated to it?  Eating right and exercise is a great way to take care of your body but your mind is not so easily dedicated to.  Do you lack the self pride and self respect to want to gain your true potential of the mind? 

How can I study then?

There are many ways and techniques for studying.  Many tests and psychological research have been made on this very subject.  Just stated before, it depends on the personal learning style and how the mind functions.   I have used many ways to study before.  I have see many pros and cons of each way.  Below is what I have found helpful for studying.  

Jen's Studying Tips:

1. If you are in school, take notes on what is going on in the class.  What the teacher says and what is going on in the classroom can help with remembering the subject.  For example, if there is a question asked by another student or yourself, write it down and write the answer down too.  This will help with retaining the information better.   Write down what happens in an experiment or write down the example or other information to help illustrate what the teacher is talking about.  After you have notes taken, study them.  Even if you do not have homework, study your notes.  Review them. 
2. Always study with in a relaxing area.  Find a place where you can put your mind on your studies and not other things is key to not being distracted.  If you are not relaxed, then you will not pay attention to what you are studying.  Also find a place that you can use over and over again as your studying spot.  
3. Make sure that your mind is clear of distractions.  You cannot simply apply your mind on studying when you have other things going on around you or in your thoughts.  A computer can only tolerate doing so many things before it starts to slow down or even shut down.  Try meditation and relaxation techniques to help you prepare to study before you even start.
4. Study breaks are great!  It has been proven to help your mind retain your information.  Just remember that it is a break and should not last too long.  
5. Make sure you are reflecting and applying what you are learning.  Apply it to your life.  This gives the topic meaning which you are ten times more likely to remember even years down the road. 
6. Keeping up with your sleep is important.  You need to have proper sleep when you are studying to help your mind's health. 
7. I love using flash cards, songs, movies, and many more techniques for studying depending on the subject or topic. 
8. Technology is a great tool for studying too.  I love making recordings, digital flashcards, or using apps designed for studying as well. Make sure you are using it properly and effectively with another method of studying.  Also be careful to not wonder on other things in technology land, you are to be studying not play.