Keep notes from different classes separate, and label each note with a topic, date, or relevant module. 

Try different note-taking techniques until you find a combination that works for you. Some of those techniques are:

• Outlining
• Flowcharts
• Mind-maps

• Record- write down important information (keywords and ideas, questions you have about the material)
• Reduce- summarize and condense your notes into shorter phrases, keywords, or questions
• Recite- Say it in your own words. Cover your notes and try to explain the information in your own words without looking
• Reflect- Connect it to other ideas. Think about how the information connects to what you already know, other topics, or real-life situations
• Review- Study the notes regularly. Go back to your notes regularly to reinforce learning and improve long-term retention

This means engaging with the text instead of simply reading the words. Active readers think, question, connect, and interact with what they read. Try connecting your concepts to real life to help you recall and solidify your information. Asking questions as you read promotes critical thinking and leads to better understanding. Overall, active reading improves understanding and memory. 

• Preview headings
• Write questions before reading
• Take notes while reading
• Summarize each section
• Explain the chapter or paragraph aloud after reading

Don't be afraid to study in different places or to adjust your environment at home. Varying where you study can help you remember what you are studying.

Changing where you study can:

• Improve memory
• Increase focus
• Reduce boredom
• Keep your brain engaged
• Help you recall information in different situations

Vary Your Study Environment:

• Study at your desk one day.
• Review notes at the library the next day.
• Use flashcards at a coffee shop.
• Read chapters outside on a park bench.
• Join a study group. 

Learning with others or explaining material as if you were teaching it turns your studying from passive to active. 

• Learn with peers when you have the opportunity
• Test your knowledge by practicing teaching the material. You can do this live or record yourself
• Try a brain dump. Set a timer and write down everything you recall from your weekly concepts. Then compare your notes with your weekly resources to identify learning gaps.
• Reach out to your instructor, or join a session with Academic Support for clarification.
• Look for an online study group, or connect with peers through SNHUconnect.
  
   

Studying in planned bursts helps you to stay focused and avoid burnout. Schedule dedicated study time each week so you are free of distractions. 
 

• Try the Pomodoro technique: study for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break, then repeat. You can cycle timed focus sessions with a break to find what works for you.
• Use a visual timer to motivate you to keep going.
• Space out your study sessions as much as you can; instead of cramming, this helps you retain information.
• Try starting with the task/concept you are avoiding so it doesn't weigh on you as you study.

There are plenty of free online tools that can make studying and learning more interactive and personalized.

• Use free online flashcard creation platforms.
• Try using websites where you can create interactive quizzes.
• Utilize note-taking apps that sync across devices so you can take studying on-the-go.
• Use the resources your instructors share in their announcements to extend your learning.
• Color-code material if you are a visual learner.

A few additional tips for your studying toolkit.

• If your course materials are difficult to understand, you can always use tertiary sources (additional reference material) until it clicks.
• Learn to recognize your study habits, and if you need help with them, you can always book with an academic coach.
• Be honest with yourself about what you do and do not know yet.
• Check out our note-taking strategies page to learn more.
• If you aren't sure where to start, start with your key terms for the week, and when you understand those, move on to concepts.