1. Establish a Regular Study Routine

This is best accomplished by finding a quiet place in which to study with little or no interruptions. Set aside a specific time daily for study and adhere to this schedule as much as possible. There may be times you have to miss your study period and break from your routine. Try to limit these disruptions. If you do have to miss your study time, return to your schedule as soon as possible.

2. Read and Then Re-read the Lesson Material

Oftentimes, you will find that you have a greater understanding of the material when you take the time to re-read each lesson. Sometimes, it is beneficial to read over a chapter or two for a third time. When you take this approach, it is possible to catch things you might have missed on the first reading as well.

3. Take Notes as You Work Your Way Through the Lesson

Although it can be time consuming, writing things down can help you to make sense of the information you are studying. Taking notes helps to reinforce what you have read. Note-taking can also provide breakthroughs. It might result in a “light bulb” moment when things are suddenly made clear.

4. Try to Write or Recite the Material in Your Own Words

Putting things down in your own words helps to ensure that you understand the lesson. If you can explain how to do something, or you can write down the steps to follow in order to complete a task, you are demonstrating that you grasp the material. Your comprehension of the material can give you confidence that you are ready to proceed to the next phase or lesson. If you find that you are having problems, this might serve as a good indicator that you should spend more time on the current lesson.

5. Ask Questions if You Do Not Understand Something

If you are having trouble understanding a lesson, ask your instructor(s) for help. It is better to ask questions and/or get things clarified than to remain stuck in the same place. You do not want to resort to guessing on the quiz. Sometimes, the best way to work through a lesson is to take the time to ask about the points you are unclear about. Most instructors welcome your questions and are happy to be of assistance. So don’t be shy. If you are having problems, ask questions!

6. Take Time to Review Your Lessons on a Regular Basis

Take the time to review previous lessons on a regular basis. This will help to reinforce what you have learned. Re-read a lesson or go over an earlier quiz to refresh your memory. This may seem like a waste of time but it will help. For example, select a list or some definitions and then try to recall the material while you are out for a walk or preparing a meal. The idea is to master the material. Frequent review helps you to accomplish this goal.