How do you effectively study without a textbook?

[Edin_Dzeko]

How do you do it?

I'm currently studying microbiology from 2 different sources online. They are both notes uploaded by two teachers at two different universities. What one considers as important the other doesn't. And certain things one of them say it won't be covered in the course. So I've been trying to put my notes together based on these two sources and make one compilation on them both but I get confused sometimes as to what's important to know and what's not.

Also, because they are notes intentionally made for a course and class, certain things are written without much explanation because it was probably explained in depth in the class. When I attempt some of the practice tests that has been uploaded, some of the things in the test weren't in the notes (prob covered in the class). Also, they teach at different paces. What's considered as chapter one is a bit different from the other chapter.

I really don't know what to do. For anyone who studies without a textbook, what do you do? Do you just study EVERYTHING then?

 

[ZenOne]

I would say yes--study everything--however, why don't you get a textbook? Or try to download a free online textbook etc...

 

[Lavabug]

I did 1st year undergrad at a distance university and the situation was pretty much: pick up the 2-3 recommended texts and attempt to study everything mentioned in the course syllabus.

Frustrating and desolate would be a mild description of what it felt like, at said uni the average time it took people to complete their degree was around twice as long. However it did help to have a good stack of exams from previous years.

Imo, if you have notes and classes, USE THEM. And if you have some spare time, be curious and read different textbooks.

 

[id the sloth]

If you do not feel right about downloading textbooks, you could visit a library. From what I understand, many universities let the general public check out books from their library. Also, many people have written textbooks and have posted them online under some kind of license that leaves it free to use (which is awesome).

If you're looking for more resources, I hear MIT OpenCourseWare is good. It is a collection of MIT notes, lectures, and the such across many subjects. UC Berkeley (and I'm sure many others) also has a website full of webcasts that you may find helpful.

The KhanAcademy is also a website that holds lectures and practice problems covering a bunch of subjects (including biology)

 

[Matrix0]

I understand the challenges of studying without a textbook. It can be overwhelming to have multiple sources of information and not know what is important to focus on. My suggestion would be to first identify the key topics and concepts that are essential for understanding microbiology. This can be done by consulting with your professors or using online resources such as study guides or syllabi from other universities.

Once you have a clear understanding of the key topics, you can then use your notes and other sources to fill in any gaps or provide additional information. It may also be helpful to create a study guide or outline to organize the information in a way that makes sense to you.

Additionally, I would recommend supplementing your studying with other resources such as textbooks, online lectures, or practice problems. This can help provide a more comprehensive understanding of the material and fill in any missing information from your notes.

In terms of the differences in pace and coverage between the two sources, I would suggest focusing on the material that is most relevant to your specific course and using the other source as a supplemental resource.

Overall, studying without a textbook requires a lot of self-discipline and organization. It may also be helpful to form a study group with classmates to discuss and clarify any confusing topics. Remember to prioritize understanding the key concepts and actively engage with the material rather than trying to memorize everything. Good luck with your studies!