Marty Lobdell - Study Less Study Smart

About this video

• Video Title: Marty Lobdell - Study Less Study Smart
• Channel: Pierce College District WA
• Speakers: Marty Lobdell
• Duration: 59 minutes 56 seconds

Overview

Marty Lobdell discusses effective study strategies, emphasizing that "studying more" is not always the solution. He introduces techniques such as breaking down study sessions, creating dedicated study areas, and engaging in active learning. The video also touches upon the importance of understanding concepts over mere memorization, the role of sleep in memory consolidation, and methods for memorizing facts, like using mnemonics.

Key takeaways

• Break Down Study Sessions: Instead of long, unbroken study periods, it's more effective to study in shorter bursts (e.g., 30 minutes) followed by short breaks (e.g., 5 minutes). This approach increases efficiency and prevents burnout.
• Create a Dedicated Study Area: Environmental cues significantly impact focus. Designating a specific area solely for studying, free from distractions and associated with academic tasks, can improve concentration and learning.
• Active Learning vs. Rote Memorization: Engaging actively with the material, such as by explaining concepts in your own words or teaching them to others, leads to deeper understanding and better retention than passively rereading or memorizing facts.
• Understand Concepts, Not Just Facts: While facts are important, grasping the underlying concepts is crucial for meaningful learning. The ability to explain a concept in your own words signifies true understanding.
• Utilize Memory Aids (Mnemonics): For memorizing facts, mnemonics like acronyms, coined sayings, or interacting images can be highly effective and easier than rote memorization.
• Prioritize Sleep: Adequate sleep, particularly REM sleep, is essential for consolidating memories and transferring information from short-term to long-term storage.
• Effective Textbook Use (SQ3R): The SQ3R method (Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review) is a structured approach to engaging with textbooks that enhances comprehension and retention.
• Expand Notes Promptly: Immediately after a lecture, expanding on your notes by adding detail and context significantly improves recall compared to reviewing them later.