Studying for history can be a daunting task for many and as simple as reading notes for others. But most people want to do better. Here are a number of suggestions to maximize study time no matter the history topic or type of test.
History Study Tips for Auditory Learners
Group studying is the best option for auditory learners. This does not mean quizzing one another back and forth after studying independently; this is helpful but not the best way to retain information. An open discussion that details highlighted sections of the course material with some debate and scholarly exchange is what history students will benefit from most. If the test or exam has an identification or fill in the blank component then quizzing back and forth may be useful at the end of the open discussion.
The biggest tip for auditory learns is not to get sidetracked during group study. It can be very easy to be discussing Hitler's rise in Germany and then get talking about Napoleon's march to Russia even though the test is exclusively on World War Two. Also, don't forget class notes. Talking may be the best way to learn for auditory learners, but in order to benefit from the discussion every member needs to actively participate and understand at least some of the material before saying a word.
History Study Tips for Visual Learners
For visual learners, history is one of the best subjects to study. While it may be easy for a visual learner to walk into any history class and do well given all of the reading involved, especially when studying, there are always ways to improve performance. The first way to study better is to rewrite class notes in order to isolate key points and phrases. It can be easy to write down too much during a lecture and find that some of it does not apply to what the test might be on. By doing this, the important material is fresh in order for studying to more effective.
The next tip is to do the same rewriting but with all information read in the class. For textbooks, simply re-reading what was highlighted while reading is not the most effective way of retaining information for visual learners. The highlighting helps locate important information upon review, but by writing the text’s key points it is easier to review the material upon further studying. These tips should help maximize results for visual learners.
History Study Tips for Kinesthetic Learners
Kinesthetic learners are those who learn best by doing. This group of learners has a very difficult task ahead of them if they are a history student. If a particular class has no papers and only midterms and exams, it becomes even more difficult for a kinesthetic learner to easily retain information since they have had no experience in writing anything other than notes. The tips suggested for visual learners, such as rewriting notes and important points from textbooks, are useful, but only get kinesthetic learners so far.
The extra step that can be taken is to write out sample answers for mock questions that might show up on the test or exam. A fellow student could help prepare the questions, no matter if they are multiple choice, short answer, identify and explain the significance, or essay. This is by far the most time consuming way to study given that it encompasses all of the visual study tips and the added task of roping in a fellow student to help prepare questions. It is discouraging, but very helpful when it comes to write the test.
In the end it comes down to being prepared and staying relaxed. Procrastination is a dirty word in academia, and it is best to avoid. It can be difficult to stay calm and relaxed. Natalie Heilke has an excellent article explaining how to stay calm and relaxed during exam time. Good luck.
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