Doctors often come to see me because they feel that their study time is not effective. Here are five tips to get the most out of your study time.
1. Vary your study time
Study time is generally more effective and engaging if it is varied. For longer study days, it is helpful to choose a few different areas of curriculum to study. This helps keep your memory and mind more agile.
2. Give yourself study breaks
If you have a whole day to study, it can be tempting to sit at the desk for a number of hours straight. But most people’s study is likely to become significantly less effective after 45-60 minutes. Strategic breaks and even rewards throughout a study day can greatly increase effectiveness.
3. Balance life and study
Doctors often “put their lives on hold” while preparing for exams. Many doctors are pleasantly surprised that allowing oneself some enjoyment in life, actually improves effectiveness while studying. This might include spending time with family and friends, exercise or revisiting a hobby. Junior doctors don’t have much time, but a little balance can go a long way.
4. Study a few minutes here and there
Consider brief study sessions. Sometimes. Even spending 10-20 minutes on multiple choice questions can be helpful. Studying only for short periods won’t be enough to fully prepare for an exam, but they are a nice relief from longer sessions and sometimes even more effective per unit time.
5. experiment with different study techniques
Studying for medical specialist exams, many doctors rationalise their current study techniques because they’ve always studied the same way. Quite often, new approaches can greatly enhance the effectiveness of your study. Specialist exams are often like nothing you’ve ever studied before. It might be a good time to mix things up.
