Study techniques

Study techniques refer to tried and tested steps students can take to improve their learning.

EFL/ESL students come from a variety of backgrounds and age groups, and not all have studied to obtain university degrees. Many adults, particularly, therefore feel themselves somewhat out of place in a classroom context. Teachers can do much to help such students keep up throughout the course by going over some simple study techniques. Encouraging and reminding students to make notes (not only take them), to do basic revision and use mindmaps can go a long way to helping students overcome any pre-conceived ideas they may have about their ability as students.

Basic study techniques

 * Rest before starting any period of study
 * Choose a well-lit, quiet place to study
 * Always study in the same place and, if possible, at the same time
 * Always have pencil and paper to hand as well as a notebook and coloured pens
 * Take notes in your own handwriting and underline important points. Use colours
 * Rest for five to ten minutes every hour: This means getting up from the chair, walking around and letting your eyes focus on other objects
 * Summarise what you've studied that session