Achieving Medical College: 5 Effective Study Strategies
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Chapter 1: My Journey to Medical College
As I sat in the auditorium, my heart raced with anxiety while waiting for my merit number to be announced. The admission officer methodically tore vouchers from her folder, handing them out to the successful candidates. With each voucher distributed, my hopes dwindled alongside the dwindling number of empty seats. I was a bundle of nerves.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, my number was called. I approached the admission table, nervous yet hopeful. To my relief, she confirmed my acceptance into medical college! However, despite the excitement of the moment, I felt more drained than jubilant after six long hours of waiting. On the ride home, I pondered how I managed to succeed when many intelligent peers did not. They had studied tirelessly, often for 12 to 14 hours a day, yet I had somehow outperformed them.
I’m not claiming to be a prodigy or an obsessive student glued to study-with-me videos on YouTube. Rather, I adhered to a few straightforward, time-efficient strategies that paved my way into medical college.
Section 1.1: Strategy #1: Active Recall
It's a common misconception that highlighting key points and copying them into another notebook will enhance retention. Yet, during exams, many of us struggle to recall even the most reviewed topics. This is due to our reliance on "passive-reviewing" techniques. So, what is Active Recall?
Active Recall involves actively retrieving information from memory through self-testing during the revision process. Research from 2011 supports this, showing that students who employed Active Recall outperformed their peers who simply re-read material. The consensus is clear: testing yourself is far more effective than repeatedly reading the same chapter.
How can you implement this? Here are two effective methods:
Using Flashcards
Flashcards are great for memorizing facts. Whether you choose paper or digital, I recommend using the Anki app, which is specifically designed for Active Recall and Spaced Repetition (more on that later). For example, if you're learning the name of the second President of the USA, John Adams, instead of reading it multiple times, you can create a flashcard to actively recall the information.
Closed Book Method
This method is particularly useful for memorizing processes. For instance, I struggled with the Citric Acid cycle while preparing for the MCAT. By jotting down the essential steps, creating mnemonics, and regularly drawing the cycle from memory, I gradually mastered the topic.
Section 1.2: Strategy #2: Spaced Repetition
Our memory follows a "forgetting curve," indicating that retention of new information declines over time. To combat this, Spaced Repetition is key. This technique systematically reviews important concepts at regular intervals.
To effectively implement Spaced Repetition, follow this timeline:
- Day 1: Initial study session
- Days 2 & 3: Revisit and review
- After 3 days: Revisit and review
- After 1 week: Revisit and review
- After 2 weeks: Revisit and review
I assure you that once you incorporate these techniques, your retention will significantly improve.
Chapter 2: Advanced Study Techniques
This video titled "Here's How I Got A 3.9 GPA In Med School [Most Effective STUDY Strategies]" offers insights into successful study habits that can help you excel.
The second video, "Pre-Med Study Strategies - What I Wish I Knew in College (Tips from Medical School)," shares valuable lessons for aspiring medical students.
Section 2.1: Strategy #3: Note-Taking with Mapping
There are various note-taking methods, and for me, the Mapping Method has proven most effective. This approach benefits visual learners by providing a clear overview of topics and fostering connections between them. It also allows for concise yet meaningful notes that can be easily converted into flashcards for Active Recall.
To apply this method, structure your notes in a way that visually maps the information.
Section 2.2: Strategy #4: SQ3R Method
The SQ3R method stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite, and Review. Here's how it works:
- Survey: Skim the material for titles, headings, and key terms.
- Question: Write down questions that arise during your skimming.
- Read: Read thoroughly, seeking answers to your questions and highlighting important parts.
- Recite: Explain the material in your own words, as if teaching it to someone else.
- Review: Reflect on the material and consider how to relate it to other topics.
Section 2.3: Strategy #5: Time Management and Focus
Even the best study techniques are ineffective without proper time management and focus. The Pomodoro Technique can help with this. By tracking how you spend your time, you can enhance your productivity.
To use this technique, choose a task, set a timer for 25-30 minutes, and work diligently until the timer goes off. Take a short break, then repeat. After four sessions, enjoy a longer break.
Final Thoughts
"Improve quality, and you will automatically improve productivity." — W. Edward Deming
Continuous learning and self-improvement are essential. By applying these techniques, you can achieve your study goals more efficiently. Remember, the key is to create a study schedule that helps you not only gain admission but also excel in your academic journey. It's never too late to start; all it takes is determination.
Happy studying!