1. Jot down things that are on your mind before you study, then set this list to the side. Add to it anything that distracts you as you are studying. Take care of the list later.
2. Study at the same time each day. A regular schedule can help you frame this as ?study time?.
3. Set a timer for an hour, don't allow yourself to stop studying until it goes off.
4. Take breaks. A three minute break for every 30 minutes of study is a good guideline. Take a longer break after 90 minutes.
5. Set goals for your session that are realistic (number of MCQs to solve, pages to read, etc.) When you have met one of your study goals, reward yourself with a short break. Then, return to your study area.
6. Study in an area away from distractions such as a library, study lounge, or an empty classroom.
7. Make sure you have everything that you need before you begin.
8. Make sure your environment is conducive to studying, no TV, no telephone, no roommate, no boyfriend/girlfriend.
9. Make studying an active process; take notes and make review sheets. Intersperse different kinds of study into one session, e.g. reading, writing, taking notes, memorizing, etc.
10. Identify how what you are studying is relevant to your life. Draw connections between things you already know.
11. Insure that you are sleeping enough, eating well, and getting regular exercise. Your mind will be more alert, and you will be less likely to fall asleep or daydream.
