Efficiently Learning & Retaining Course Material

[Miike012]

The way I study is I read through the course book and while I read I write down everything that I feel is important, but this takes a lot of time and its not very effective.

Typically the things I will write down are:
1.Theorems
2.Proofs
3.Equations- and how they arrived at the equation
4.Graphs and pictures

To me learning the above info is important but I would like some advice. I know this question will have a different answer for every individual but what is the best way to learn and understand a subject and retain the information? I don't just want to retain it for test day I would like to develop an understanding of the material to where it is easily recalled years later.

Also should I not worry so much about writing all the information down and just read through the book then work the homework problems?

 

[espen180]

It sounds like you are studying mathematics. If so, just copying the book onto your notes will not teach you the material. As others have stated in previous threads, you have to be active in your learning. Question the material, think independently. When seeing a new theorem, questions you can ask yourself are for example:
-Is the converse true? If not, why? Can you find a counterexample? What conditions are needed (if any) to make the converse hold (if possible)?
-Why are the assumptions in the theorem neccesary? Can they be relaxed?
-Can you find an alternative (shorter?) proof?

There questions can be very hard depending on the subject matter, but you can answer them, you are well on your way towards an intimate understanding of the material. In short, more than taking notes or doing problems, you have to ponder the material!

 

[20Tauri]

If I could figure out how to retain information beyond the exams I'd have it made--as it is, I'm lucky if I remember the beginning of the class when I'm taking the final. I think doing lots of practice problems helps, but if you want to remember something, math is pretty much use it or lose it. If you're not revisiting the material from time to time, you will likely forget it, even if you understood it quite well.

 

[genericusrnme]

I'd say go beyond the material you're trying to study and see it unified with other concepts. If go ahead and work on harder material you'll look back at the things you were struggling with in your exams as trivialities for the most part.

 

[Matrix0]

I understand the importance of efficient and effective learning when it comes to understanding and retaining course material. While writing down important information can be helpful, it is not always the most efficient method. Here are some tips that may help you improve your learning and retention process:

1. Use active learning techniques: Instead of just reading and writing down information, try to actively engage with the material. This can include summarizing key concepts in your own words, creating flashcards, or teaching the material to someone else. These methods have been shown to be more effective in retaining information compared to passive reading and note-taking.

2. Make connections: Rather than just memorizing individual pieces of information, try to make connections between different concepts and topics. This can help you develop a deeper understanding of the material and make it easier to recall later on.

3. Practice, practice, practice: While reading and understanding the material is important, it is equally important to practice applying the concepts. Working through homework problems and practice exercises can help solidify your understanding and identify any areas that may require further study.

4. Utilize different resources: Don't limit yourself to just the course book. Look for additional resources such as online lectures, videos, or study guides that may provide a different perspective on the material and help reinforce your understanding.

5. Take breaks and review regularly: It is important to take breaks while studying and give your brain time to process the information. Additionally, regular review of the material can help strengthen your memory and make it easier to recall later on.

In terms of writing down information, it can be helpful to take notes during lectures or while reading, but it is not necessary to write down every single detail. Instead, focus on understanding and summarizing the key points. As you practice and review, you will likely find that you can recall the information without having to rely on extensive notes.

Remember, everyone learns differently and it may take some trial and error to find the best method for you. However, by actively engaging with the material, making connections, and regularly reviewing, you can improve your understanding and retention of course material.