5 Study Habits to Help Nursing Students Retain Information

Going to nursing school can be exciting – you’ll learn so much while preparing for a future in the healthcare field. Still, it can be a lot. You’ll be tasked with absorbing vast amounts of information while preparing for real-life scenarios in healthcare settings. With so much to learn and remember, it’s important to develop effective study habits. Here are five essential study habits to help you retain all that medical information.

Stick with a study schedule

Create specific time slots in your day to study different subjects or topics and stick to them. Break down the material into manageable chunks and study regularly to help you remember everything. For example, devote 30 to 60 minutes each day to review lecture notes, read textbooks, or engage in active learning techniques (see below). Avoid cramming and allow time for the information to sink in.

Try Active Learning

Passive reading is not always enough to retain complex nursing concepts. Active learning involves various techniques that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Answer questions related to the material, create flashcards, engage in group discussions, or try to explain the concepts to peers. Active learning helps you understand and retain information and builds your confidence.

Use Visual Aids

Nursing often involves understanding complex processes and anatomical structures. Visual aids, such as diagrams, charts, and mind maps, can be a big help. Convert text into visuals, allowing your brain to create meaningful associations and recall the information more effectively. This is especially helpful when learning about body systems, pharmacology, and medical procedures.

Implement the Pomodoro Technique

Marathon study sessions can lead to burnout and decreased retention. The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that suggests breaking study sessions into short intervals with regular breaks. Set a timer for 25 minutes of focused study (a “Pomodoro”) followed by a 5-minute break. After completing four Pomodoros, take a more extended break of 15-30 minutes. This technique helps maintain focus, prevents mental fatigue, and improves information retention.

Review and Reflect Regularly

Marathon study sessions can lead to burnout and decreased retention. The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that suggests breaking study sessions into short intervals with regular breaks. Set a timer for 25 minutes of focused study (a “Pomodoro”) followed by a 5-minute break. After completing four Pomodoros, take a more extended break of 15-30 minutes. This technique helps maintain focus, prevents mental fatigue, and improves information retention.

Set aside time each week to review the concepts you’ve covered in the past. This review process solidifies your understanding of the material and helps identify any areas of weakness. Also, be sure to assess your own progress and identify which study techniques are working best for you.

By incorporating these practices into your study habits routine, you can increase your comprehension, boost exam performance, and develop a solid foundation for your future nursing career.

Nursing at Daytona College

For those seeking to embark on a nursing career, look no further than Daytona College. With a range of nursing programs to choose from, including an Associate of Science Degree in Nursing and a Practical Nursing Diploma Program, we will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to work as a nursing professional. In addition to our curriculum, it’s imperative to note that passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) is a necessary requirement for any aspiring nurse to practice in the U.S. Don’t hesitate to contact us today to learn more about why Daytona College is the ideal choice for your nursing education and career goals.