You probably know that we each have different learning styles, depending on our particular personality type. Some of us learn best by reading words. Some prefer learning with the help of visual information - pictures, graphs, charts or even doodles. Some of us like learning with the help of sound. And some of us prefer to learn by talking things over with other people.
The good news is that it's not hard to discover your personal learning style. So just use the following descriptions to help you identify the style, and the learning techniques, which feel most natural to you.
What's your learning style?
One good indication can be the way you remember a phone number.
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Do you see, in your mind's eye, how the number would look if written down? Or how it was displayed on the actual screen of the phone? If so, you might be a visual learner.
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Do you "hear" the number, as though you or someone else was saying it out loud? If so, you might be a sound-based learner.
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Do you recall the number by imagining your fingers actually tapping it out? If so, you might be a tactile learner.
As you'll see, these aren't the only possibilities. But they should have got you thinking! So now take a look at all the different learning styles, in a little more detail.
Are you a word-based learner?
Are you good with words, letters and phrases? Do you enjoy reading, or playing word games like scrabble, or taking part in discussions?
If so, the following study strategies may be of particular benefit to you:
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As you read, take LOTS of notes. Try and summarise what the author's saying in your own words
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Create "flash cards" on which you write down key ideas
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Keep a journal of what you learn
Are you a visual learner?
Are you good at art and design? Do you enjoy being creative, watching films, or visiting art galleries? Do respond better to pictures than to words?
If so, the following study strategies may be of particular benefit to you:
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Sketch pictures or use doodles in the margin to highlight key points in your course texts and study notes
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Create "flash cards" on which you draw images to sum up key ideas
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Use charts and graphic organisers to keep track of what you learn
Are you a number-based learner?
Are you good with numbers and equations? Do you like solving logical problems, or playing maths-based games like Sudoko?
If so, the following study strategies may be of particular benefit to you:
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Make your notes into numeric charts and graphs
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Use the roman numeral style of outlining
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Put information you receive into categories and classifications you create
Are you a tactile learner?
Are you good with your hands? Do you like sport, exercise and outdoor work?
If so, the following study strategies may be of particular benefit to you:
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Act out or imagine the ideas you need to remember
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Look for real-life examples that demonstrate what you're learning about
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Try to make as much use as possible of "hands-on" and interactive learning aids such as the internet and computer programmes
Are you a sound-based learner?
Do you listen to a lot of music? Do you have a natural talent for rhythms and beats? Do you find it easier to remember things you hear, rather than things you see or read?
If so, the following study strategies may be of particular benefit to you:
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Create a song or rhyme to help you remember a new idea
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Listen to classical music while you study (but avoid songs with words, as these may distract you while)
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Remember key words by linking them to similar-sounding words in your mind
Are you a "sociable" learner?
Are you good at relating to people? Do you enjoy sharing ideas and lively discussion?
If so, the following study strategies may be of particular benefit to you:
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Try and discuss what you're learning from your course with a friend or family member
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Have someone quiz you before an exam
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Create or join an online chat group where you can discuss the subject you're studying