If you’ve been underwhelmed by the flash card and study aid sites you’ve found online, you’ll definitely want to check out Headmagnet. Headmagnet records what you remember and quizzes you in the most efficient way. More »
Despite the proliferation of laptops and netbooks, the vast majority of students still use their computers like $500 typewriters. Stop working so hard and start being a better student by leveraging computer-based tools to your advantage. More »
Lifehacker AU reader Peggy has posted some study tips for students, including a nice tweak for Google Scholar which helps you find resources at your local Uni.
1. Go to ‘Scholar Preferences‘2. In the Library Links section, search for your uni3. Hopefully your uni will be listed, if so tick the check box (If not, maybe ask a librarian and see if the uni can get listed)4. In the Bibliography Manager section, select EndNote5. Click on ‘Save Preferences‘Now when you search, for the papers you usually need to login to download you’ll see a link similar to “Find it@UNSW” next to it. When you click on the link, it’ll take you to your uni’s login page and once you login you’ll be taken directly to the article. Nice isn’t it? Also, with EndNote, all articles should now have an “Import to EndNote” link, click on it to import into your EndNote library – no need to manually enter the details (though be careful there are times when Google doesn’t reference properly, but it’s rare, and usually an easy fix)
Ten Useful Tips to Help with Research [Psychopyko]
Thanks for the tip, Peggy!
43 Folders dug up a gem of an article on the University of Kent’s website, which looks at getting into concentrating mode, and how to train yourself to stay there.
Although aimed at students, it seemed equally applicable for anyone who needs to block out distractions and concentrate on their work. I don’t know anyone who doesn’t start their workday by checking their email, but I can see why they say it’s a no-no:
“… You can carry out a small ritual at the start of every study session, such as taking out a figurine, wearing your study cap, or putting up a sign. This helps to tune your body into a study mode when you carry out the ritual. It also serves to tell others that you are studying and that you should not be disturbed. Do not choose an activity, such as reading your email or checking the stock market, that may lead you to procrastinate or distract you.”
Along with suggesting some tried and true methods such as breaking up your task list into manageable tasks, the article also suggested a cool notion I haven’t come across before – worry time.
“If your mind is side-tracked into worrying or daydreaming during the day, then set aside a specific time each day to think about the things that keep interrupting your concentration.”
As someone who battles the procrastination demons all too often, I’m bookmarking that page!
Concentration strategies for students [43 Folders]
