Here are some top tips:
– TEST YOURSELF. Testing is more effective than studying the factual content repeatedly. Be prepared to feel uncomfortable with not knowing the answer when you try this! It’s the fastest way of highlighting where the gaps in your knowledge are.
– ACTIVE RECALL. Instead of re-reading or summarising facts try writing down the key points you have just learned from memory (without cues!)
– SPACED REPETITION. Try recalling the concepts you have learned at expanding intervals. For example use your active recall skills on the topics again at 1 day after learning, then 7 days later, then at 15 days, 30 days and 60 days…!
For more information, see:
Augustin, M. (2014). How to Learn Effectively in Medical School: Test Yourself, Learn Actively, and Repeat in Intervals. The Yale Journal of Biology and Medicine, 87(2), 207-212.
Medical students – get in contact with your university’s Learning Advisors. UQMind JCUMSA UQMS AMSA Mental Health MSSBU GUMS: Griffith University Medicine Society
