Returning to education after a break can feel a little overwhelming, especially if it’s been a while since you were last in a classroom. But with a bit of planning and the right mindset, you can set yourself up for success. We have compiled some practical study tips to help you get back into the swing of things if you’ve been out of education for a while.

 

Create a study schedule: One of the biggest challenges of returning to education is finding the time to study. To make sure you’re making the most of your time, create a study schedule and stick to it…

 

1. Start by determining how much time you have available to study. Look at your schedule and determine how much time you can realistically set aside each week, factoring in other commitments such as work, family, and personal responsibilities).

 

2. Break your studies into smaller sections. It can be overwhelming to tackle a term’s worth of material all at once. Instead, break your studies into smaller chunks and focus on one subject or topic at a time.

 

3. Set specific goals for yourself. Specific goals for each study session can help you stay motivated and on track. These goals might include reading a certain number of chapters or completing a certain number of problems.

 

4. Be flexible. While it’s important to have a schedule, you also need to be flexible. Life doesn’t always go as planned, and you may need to adjust your schedule as you go.

 

5. Take breaks. Don’t forget to schedule breaks for yourself. Taking breaks and giving yourself time to rest and recharge is essential. Consider using the Pomodoro Technique, where you work for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break.

 

Find a study space: A quiet, distraction-free space is essential for effective studying. This might be a dedicated study room at home, a quiet corner of a library, or even a local coffee shop. Wherever you choose to study, make sure it’s a place where you feel comfortable and can focus on getting work done.

 

Revisit the basics: If it’s been a while since you’ve been in college, you might need to brush up on some of the foundational concepts in your area of study. Don’t be afraid to go back to the basics and review material you may have learned years ago. This will help you build a strong foundation and make it easier to understand more advanced concepts as you progress through your studies.

 

Seek out support: Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Whether it’s a tutor, a study group, or just a friend willing to listen, having support can make a big difference. You might also consider joining a student organisation or club related to your subject or field of study. This can be a great way to meet like-minded people and learn from others who are also returning to education.

 

Stay organised: Staying organised is key to being on top of your studies. Use a planner or calendar to keep track of assignments and deadlines, and create a system for storing and organising your notes and course materials. This will help to keep you on track and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

 

Don’t be too hard on yourself: It’s natural to feel nervous or uncertain if you return to education after a break. But it’s important to remember that everyone has to start somewhere. Be kind to yourself and give yourself permission to make mistakes. You’ll improve with practice, and you’ll feel more confident and comfortable as you progress through your studies.

 

Returning to college or other types of education after a break can appear daunting, but with a little bit of planning and the right mindset, you can set yourself up for success.