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Study skills series

Create, and study with, flashcards

This simple study technique has proved to be one of the most effective study strategies for memorizing

Using flash cards is a very effective strategy for studying.
Flash cards are two-sided study aids that have
a cue, a question, a concept on one side, and
the “answer” on the other or opposite side:

    • Effective in quick or brief periods of time
      and cost-effective in terms of time and money
    • “Chunked” in small packs (Rule of 7-9 items)
      and convenient study tool at bus stops, on walks, in a line, etc.
    • Use individually, paired, or in a group
    • Alternatively as a simple 3 x 5 card or a computerized program
    • ...as a handy note-taking strategy
    • ...as a matching game
    • Increase the difficulty
      by putting easy ones aside and focusing on the more difficult
    • Useful for a quick review
    • Instead of words, use pictures, illustrations, etc.
    • Take advantage of alternate learning styles and use when
      walking or pacing, talking out loud, etc.
    • Scatter about a room for visualized identity
      or the “Method of places”
See also:

Effective study habits | A.S.P.I.R.E. - a study system | Index - a study system | Studying with flashcards | Studying with multiple sources |
Finding the right study space | Studying text books in science