How to Study
I work with adults; many of whom have been out of a classroom or a school for years. Often my clients ask me ‘How should I study?’.
The Pomodoro Method
My recommendation to any adult learner who wants to study is to use the Pomodoro technique. The Pomodoro technique is a time management method that has students focus their attention on study materials for blocks of time without distractions or breaks. The technique calls for the use of a timer.
I recommend starting by setting a goal to complete a short block of study time; 15 minutes. Just like in Agile development methodology I refer to those blocks of time as sprints. Study uninterrupted for 15 minutes (one sprint) and then get up and walk around.
Before you start that first sprint take a few minutes and remove any distractions from your field of view. I start by clearing my desk off and putting everything away. Silence or turn off your phone. Turn off the TV and any music that might be playing. Ask your family or those around you for some private, quiet time. Try to find a place to sit comfortably and focus on (read) your study materials. When your 15 minute timer goes off; get up and stretch your legs and do anything else you need to do locally. But be sure to be back for your next sprint in 5 minutes.
Start the next block and repeat until you’ve completed three sprints. Your initial goal should be to complete three Pomodoro sprints in one hour. After you’ve completed those three sprints it’s time to take notes. Note taking doesn’t have to be timed.
Just review the material you covered in the three sprints and write down:
(1) what is the key topic or concept from what you just read, (2) questions about things you don’t understand, and (3) words whose meaning you don’t know or are unsure of.
After three to five study sessions try to extend your sprint time to 20 minutes. After another week extend the sprints to 25 minutes. I don’t recommend sprints longer than 25 minutes. If you want to learn more about the Pomodoro technique read this article.