So, you have your notes. They’re organized and you’re ready to study. However, just as you open your notebook, you suddenly realize that you really have no idea how to actually review your notes. In fact, you realize that you’re not only wondering, “How do I review my notes” but that you’re also wondering, “How do I actually review for a test like this?” Well, if this is the case, it is important to remember that almost every note taker faces the exact same problem at some point, and there are a number of different things that you can do to make it easier to review your notes.
- One of the things that a number of individuals do when they’re trying to make their review easier is to review one topic at a time. This is because most note takers have to take notes on a variety of different topics, and it can be very difficult for a note taker to review everything in a single sitting without being overwhelmed or confused. This means that if you’re preparing for a test you may want to review a topic or two, take a break, and review the rest of your notes later. In fact, this is especially important when you are preparing for a standardized test because standardized tests typically cover an immense amount of information, and there is no way that you’re going to be able to review all of the information that you may need to know in a single sitting.
- Another thing that a number of individuals do is combine different review methods. This is because most note takers have to review a lot of notes and remember a lot of information, and it’s very easy for a note taker to lose focus and forget things when he or she is absorbing the information in only one way. In fact, you may find that it is much easier to absorb the information you need when you use different review methods and/or different senses. For example, if you’re using flashcards, you could read the question on the front of the card aloud, write your answer on a piece of paper, and then read the answer on the back of the card aloud. This will allow you to use your eyes, ears, and sense of touch.
- The third thing that a number of individuals do is find a study partner or a study group. Study partners and study groups can help you figure out the topics that you don’t fully understand, which can be very helpful when you’re having trouble.