Study Strategies Needed
I’m a 9th grader and I recently finished a semester with an average of 83% (an A) and I’m currently at around 90% (an A+). While these grades are decent, I feel they don’t reflect my true potential. I put a lot of effort into studying to remember the material and apply it, but I’m struggling to achieve the grades I desire.
For context, I have ADHD and autism, which can make long study sessions challenging for me. I love math and science, yet despite my dedication, I only managed an 89% in science last semester (my highest grade), and right now I’m at about 85% in math.
I’m reaching out to learn about any effective study techniques you might recommend that could help me. I’m open to all suggestions and willing to try anything to improve my study habits. Thank you in advance for your help! 🙂
It’s great to hear about your passion for math and science, and it’s completely understandable to want to improve your grades further! Here are some studying tips that might align with your learning style, especially considering your experiences with ADHD and autism:
Break it Down: Try breaking your study sessions into smaller, focused chunks, like 25 minutes of studying followed by a 5-minute break (the Pomodoro Technique). This can help maintain your focus and make studying feel less overwhelming.
Active Learning: Instead of just reading or taking notes, engage actively with the material. Try teaching the concepts to someone else, or explain them out loud to yourself. Creating mind maps or diagrams can also help visually organize information.
Use Multisensory Techniques: Incorporate different methods of learning. For example, try using videos, interactive apps, or hands-on experiments in science. You could also combine audio (listening to lectures or podcasts related to the topic) with visual and kinesthetic learning to reinforce the material.
Set Specific Goals: Instead of aiming for a specific grade, set smaller, achievable goals for each study session, like mastering a certain topic or completing a set number of practice problems. This can help you focus and feel a sense of accomplishment.
Create a Structured Environment: Designate a specific study space that is free from distractions where you feel comfortable and focused. Having a consistent environment can help signal your brain that it’s time to study.
Use Tools for Organization: Consider using planners, to-do lists, or digital apps to keep track of assignments and deadlines. This can help reduce anxiety and ensure you stay on top of your work.
Incorporate Movement: If you’re struggling to focus for long periods, try incorporating short bursts of physical activity, like stretching or a quick walk, during breaks to rejuvenate your mind.
Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or short meditation sessions, can help calm your mind and improve focus before diving into study sessions.
Seek Support and Feedback: Don’t hesitate to ask teachers for clarification on topics you find challenging or for extra help. They can provide insights tailored to your needs. Additionally, consider study groups where you can share ideas and learn from peers.
Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and reward yourself for your progress, no matter how small. This can help boost your motivation and reinforce positive study habits.
Remember that everyone’s learning journey is unique, and it’s perfectly okay to seek strategies that resonate with you. Keep experimenting with different approaches until you find what works best for you. Good luck, and keep up the great work!