20 minute Test Preparation(Kevin Kim)

The 20 minute test preparation was the most helpful strategy for me thus far. I noticed immediately that I could finally retain more information, and for once I felt like the lecture actually made sense to me. Normally, I would go to lecture and get side tracked either by my phone or my laptop, however because I know I need good notes in order to complete this test preparation it forced me to stay engaged in class.

The first time I tried this technique was in my HST 101 class. My notes were all scattered, and it was tough to get a grasp at anything. Therefore, I used the 20 minute test preparation to organize my notes, and add a title for every sub-topic in class. Furthermore, I was able to make up many possible test questions, and it felt rewarding to have known everything that was taught in class and beyond. The one thing that I struggled with was finished organizing, and making up questions in just 20 minutes.

The second time I wanted to try things a little differently. Unlike HST 101, PSY 205 is not as writing intensive, so I decided that a better approach for this class would be to make a study guide. I took down key terms during the lecture, and after class I researched the terms in my textbook. This forced me to read, and furthermore I was able to make certain connections with some of the concepts. However, once again it was tough for me to complete organizing and making up question in just 20 minutes.