An efficient method of study is
very important. Here lists some methods I conclude from the long-term experience
of my study in universities. I hope the methods can benefit our students.
Pre-read and post-read. Spend some time to read the chapter that will be taught in the coming class. I usually spend at least half to one hour to learn the material before the class. Also spend some time to review the materials after the class. This process can be combined with doing the assignments. Sometime there is no homework but it is REALLY important to review the stuff we learnt.
Do the exercises.
Doing is the most efficient way to learn. The more the exercises we have done,
the better we leant. This is a common “trick” of all "A"-students. Because the
only thing in exam is a group of questions, if you have done them before, you can get
them done easily in
the exam (So you can get grade "A"). In general, there are a lot of
exercises after each chapter for you to practice. Some instructors may not give
you many assignments, but you should do the exercises yourself because you want grade
"A".
Switch the materials you are
studying. Don't study one book over two
hours, otherwise you may feel bothering. I like switching the books I am reading
about every
hour, in order to keep me to focus the subject I am studying. It is always a good idea to exercise
(such as, walk, jog, play Tai-Ji, etc.) your body a little bit during the period
of switching subjects.
Take notes in class with paper and pen. There are too many things we may worry daily, and so you may easily get lost if you don't take notes in class. I do not suggest you use computer to take notes for its many limitations. Use color pen to mark the important stuff.
Ask and learn.
This is a synonym of knowledge in Chinese. Ask your instructor - ask your
classmate - ask your friends - ask - ask - ask. Then you can learn. There are
infinite questions in each subject, so you may have infinite asks.