My Study Strategies: A Blend of Traditional and Digital

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As a fourth-year undergraduate student majoring in Health Studies and Psychology at the University of Toronto, I’ve spent a significant amount of time refining my study strategies. Balancing the demands of a Double Major has required me to develop effective methods to absorb and retain vast amounts of information. Over time, I’ve found a blend of digital tools and traditional techniques to be particularly effective. Two key components of my study strategy are Quizlet and handwritten notes. In this blog, I’ll share how I use these tools to optimize my learning and suggest other methods that could enhance your study routine.

Quizlet has become an indispensable part of my study routine. This digital flashcard app is more than just a simple tool for memorization; it offers a variety of features that cater to different learning styles and needs.

One of the primary features I use on Quizlet is the flashcard mode. Creating digital flashcards allows me to break down complex concepts into manageable pieces. The process of writing out definitions, explanations, and key points helps reinforce my understanding of the material. Quizlet’s flashcard mode is especially useful because I can access my cards anytime, anywhere, whether I’m on my laptop at home or on my phone during a commute.

To further test my knowledge, I use Quizlet’s “Learn” feature. This mode is a form of adaptive learning that personalizes the study experience based on my performance. It starts with basic questions and progressively introduces more challenging ones. If I get a question wrong, the feature repeats it later, ensuring I grasp the concept before moving on. This method of spaced repetition is highly effective for long-term retention.

Another feature I rely on is Quizlet’s “Test” mode. This function generates practice tests based on my flashcards, mimicking the format of actual exams. I can choose between multiple-choice, true/false, matching, and short-answer questions. This variety keeps my study sessions engaging and prepares me for different types of assessments. Taking these practice tests regularly helps me identify areas where I need improvement and tracks my progress over time. Moreover, this helps me retain key terms that are important for tests.

Quizlet also offers interactive games like “Match” and “Gravity,” which make studying feel less like a chore. “Match” challenges me to pair terms with their correct definitions as quickly as possible, adding a fun, competitive element to my study sessions. “Gravity” involves protecting a planet from incoming asteroids by typing the correct answers, which helps improve my typing speed and accuracy under pressure.

Despite the convenience of digital tools, I firmly believe in the value of handwritten notes. There’s something about the physical act of writing that helps information stick in my mind more effectively than typing. Handwriting engages different parts of the brain, aiding in comprehension and retention.

One of my favorite techniques is mind mapping. I start with a central concept and draw branches to related ideas, creating a visual representation of the topic. This method is particularly useful for subjects that involve complex relationships and hierarchies, such as psychology theories or health systems. Mind maps help me see the bigger picture and understand how different concepts are interconnected.

I also use diagrams and illustrations to visualize information. Whether it’s drawing out the structure of the brain or creating flowcharts for disease progression, these visual aids make abstract concepts more tangible. Plus, the act of creating these diagrams reinforces my understanding and makes review sessions more engaging.

When it comes to summarizing lectures and textbook readings, I prefer to write concise notes in my own words. This process forces me to process the information actively, rather than passively copying text. I organize my notes with headings, bullet points, and color-coding to make them easy to scan during review sessions.

I also make a habit of reviewing my notes regularly. Instead of cramming before exams, I set aside time each week to go over my notes and reinforce what I’ve learned. This consistent review helps transfer information from short-term to long-term memory, reducing the stress of last-minute studying.

While Quizlet and handwritten notes are the cornerstones of my study strategy, I also incorporate other methods to enhance my learning experience.

I personally use a digital tool, Notability, to keep my study materials organized. This app allows me to create notebooks for each course, store lecture slides, and sync my notes across devices. The search functionality in these apps as well as the feature to record live lectures makes it easy to find specific information quickly, saving me time during study sessions.

Group study sessions are another valuable component of my study strategy. Discussing concepts with peers helps solidify my understanding and exposes me to different perspectives. We often use Quizlet’s shared study sets to quiz each other, which adds an element of accountability and motivation. Collaborative learning also allows us to divide and conquer complex topics, making the study process more efficient and enjoyable.

While my current study strategies have been effective, I’m always open to exploring new methods to enhance my learning experience. Tutoring can be a valuable resource when trying to find the best way for you to study.  At EduTutor, our tutors help students find the most effective ways for the student to retain the information and to recall it. Preparing for tests and exams can be tricky and EduTutor tutors can help make it simpler.

Active recall involves testing myself on the material without looking at my notes. This technique forces my brain to retrieve information, strengthening my memory. I plan to incorporate more active recall sessions into my study routine, using tools like Anki, which employs spaced repetition algorithms to optimize review intervals.

In addition to traditional notes and digital tools, I find audio and visual resources beneficial. Podcasts, YouTube lectures, and educational videos provide alternative explanations and real-world examples that can deepen my understanding. I also use apps like Audacity to record and listen to my own notes, which reinforces learning through auditory channels. 

Effective time management is essential for balancing a rigorous academic schedule. Techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, which involves working in focused intervals followed by short breaks, help maintain productivity and prevent burnout. I also use digital planners and apps like Microsoft To Do List to prioritize tasks and stay organized.

In my journey as a student, I’ve discovered that a combination of digital tools and traditional techniques works best for me. Quizlet’s interactive features and adaptive learning capabilities complement the depth and engagement of handwritten notes. By integrating these methods and continuously exploring new strategies, I can optimize my study routine and achieve academic success. Ultimately, finding what works best for you and being adaptable in your approach will pave the way for a fulfilling and effective learning experience.

Happy Studying! 😊

Welcome to EduTutor.ca’s blog! I’m Eman Amir, a fourth-year undergraduate student at the University of Toronto, pursuing a double major in Co-op Health Studies and Psychology. Having grown up in Pakistan and completed my high school education in Canada, my unique educational journey has equipped me with diverse perspectives and experiences. I’m passionate about understanding human behavior, mental health, and the field of clinical trials. Outside of academics, I enjoy tutoring students of all ages and subjects, with a special focus on teaching high school Biology and Chemistry. Join me as I share my insights, stories, and tips on navigating the complexities of student life and beyond.