Study strategies

​In this phase, you explore and organise the course material to build a solid foundation.

1. Orientation: Gather all your study materials (textbooks, slides, notes, additional exercises). Make sure nothing is missing and arrange everything in a logical order.
2. Structuring: Study the table of contents and organise the material. Highlight key words in titles, subtitles and text. Ask yourself questions to deepen your understanding.
3. Visualising: Create a clear summary in the form of a diagram, such as a mind map, timeline or table. Use keywords and show connections to visualise the content effectively.

Once you have a clear overview, it’s time to study the material actively.

• Study actively: Recite the material out loud without simply reading from your notes. Write down key terms and use memory aids or mnemonics to help you remember.

• Test yourself: Ask yourself questions and try to answer without looking at your course materials.

• Alternate study and breaks: For example, study in 50-minute blocks followed by short breaks to keep your focus sharp.

To retain information over the long term, regular revision is essential.

• Review at three key moments: after the lecture, during your revision period, and the day before the exam.

• Use your diagrams and table of contents as memory aids to refresh key concepts quickly.

• Check your understanding by asking yourself questions or explaining the material out loud, if you can teach it, you know it.

Processing study material efficiently is essential for better understanding and memorisation. Various methods help you break down large amounts of information, maintain an overview and recognise the core of the material faster.

• Mind maps give complex concepts a visual structure and show the connections between topics. By using colours, key words and ramifications, you structure your learning and stimulate your visual memory. See how to make mind maps here.
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• Diagrams summarise information into key points and subcategories. This helps you get an overview faster and understand the interrelationships between different concepts. They are especially useful in subjects with a lot of theory and definitions. Learn how to make associations here.
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• SQ3R (Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review) helps you process texts thoroughly. You start with an overall exploration of the text to get a first impression. Then you ask questions about the content, after which you read the text carefully. Afterwards, you summarise and repeat the main points to better remember the learning material. See how to use this method here.
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Besides these methods, there are other strategies for effectively processing study material.

• Keeping a table of contents close by, helps you keep an overview and better understand the structure of a course or book. This can be especially useful in courses with many chapters and subtopics. Making a linear diagram based on the table of contents, for example with arrows and keywords, gives you a clear picture of the structure of the subject matter. This makes it easier to make connections and to quickly recall where specific information is.
  
  
• Summarising forces you to actively think about the core of the text and put the information into your own words. This not only helps with memorisation, but also makes you understand the material better. Make sure you do not copy entire chunks of text, but filter and concisely summarise the main ideas.
  Tip:
  Summarising can be time-consuming. A common pitfall is spending hours retyping material without actually processing it. It can be interesting to use summaries from fellow students, but make sure they do not contain any errors and the content matches the material you need to know!
  
  
• Active reading means not leafing through a text passively, but asking questions, underlining key words and making notes in the margins. This increases your engagement with the subject matter and helps you find important details faster.
  
  
• Explaining aloud helps to check whether you really understand the material. Try explaining a concept as if you were teaching it to someone else. This forces you to put the information into your own words and identify any gaps in your knowledge.
  
  

By alternating and combining these methods, you can optimise your study process. Experiment with different techniques and find out which approach suits you best.

Tips:

1. Choose a method that suits you.
   Not every method works for everyone. Try different techniques and find out which one best suits your learning style. For example, visual thinkers benefit from mind maps, while analytical thinkers prefer to work with diagrams.
2. Combine different strategies.
   Methods can reinforce each other. For example, start with active reading and underlining, then make an outline or mind map, and summarise the main points in your own words. By processing information in multiple ways, you increase your understanding and remember the material better.
3. Work with a clear structure.
   A structured approach helps you study more efficiently. Work systematically through a course or book and use the table of contents as a guide. Make a linear diagram to organise main and sub-topics and to see the connection between topics.
   

Many professors build their lessons using PowerPoint presentations. These slides help you follow the lesson and often already contain much of the material you need to know. With a few targeted additions, you can quickly put together a complete course. It is not always necessary to retype everything into a separate document. But how do you learn effectively from slides?

• Apply structure
  Most importantly, apply a clear structure to your slides. Provide a clear table of contents and give each slide clear titles and subtitles. You can also work with colour coding to visually highlight links and important parts.
  
  
• Understand the material
  After the lesson, it is important to check that you understand everything on the slides and in your notes. Is anything unclear? Then consult the textbook or watch the lesson recording again to better grasp difficult parts and complete your notes.
  
  
• Make the material manageable
  Once you understand the material, you can think about ways to master it faster during the exam period. Some effective strategies are:
  • Mind maps: Visualise key concepts and their interrelationships.
  • Concept or definition lists: List key concepts and their meanings.
  • Diagrams and summaries: Bring together key ideas in a structured way.
    
    
• Active processing and repetition
  Active processing ensures better retention of learning. Try the following methods:
  
  • Flashcards: to memorise definitions and key concepts.
    
  • Invent questions: formulate your own questions on key concepts. You can even use artificial intelligence to generate exam questions. Testing yourself using sample exam questions is the way to find out whether you have mastered the subject matter sufficiently.
    
  • Teach yourself or others: Explain the subject matter as if you were the teacher yourself. This helps you to discover gaps in your knowledge and deepen your understanding.
    
    

By applying these techniques, you process the subject matter in an active way and the information sticks better. Flashcards help you recall facts more fluently, while explaining the material ensures you really understand the connections. Moreover, it is motivating to see your progress and get a better grip on the material.

Are you studying physics, chemistry, mathematics or other sciences? These subjects require a structured approach and active study methods. Here are our tips!

• Understand concepts instead of memorising them.
  It is important to grasp the underlying logic of concepts. Exact sciences often build on previous knowledge, so make sure you understand the basics. Ask yourself questions and make associations with previous knowledge or knowledge from other fields to understand concepts.
  
  
• Practice makes perfect!​
  You learn exact sciences by doing lots of exercises.
  • Start with simple tasks and gradually build up to more complex questions.
  • Do not only practise with the assignments from your course. Try to find additional exercises.
  • Set achievable goals, such as a number of tasks per day, to boost your progress.
  • Tip: Don't limit yourself to the exercises from class. Your exam will probably include variations on these exercises, so prepare for those as well.
  • Tip: Analyse your mistakes. Don't just look at the correct answer, but try to understand why you were wrong. A mistake booklet can help you avoid common mistakes in the future.
    
    
• Actively engage with the theory.
  A good understanding of theory will help you solve exercises more efficiently
  • Make clear notes of formulas and rules.
  • Check which formulas you get on a formulary. Make sure you understand the logic behind them.
  • Use alternative sources such as additional books, websites and YouTube videos to get difficult material explained in a different way.
  • Tip: Don't see theory and practice as separate parts, integrate them into your study method. Doing exercises will help you learn theory better and vice versa!
    
    
• Ask questions and seek help when needed.
  Notice that you are struggling to master a concept? Don't wait too long to seek help!
  • Ask questions to teachers, assistants or fellow students.
  • Take advantage of tutoring or practice sessions if they are available.
  • Studying in groups can help you understand difficult concepts better. Exchange questions and exercises and test each other.
    

Language acquisition requires patience, regularity and an active approach. Here are some effective tips to speed up your learning process and keep learning fun!

• Immerse yourself in the language.
  The best way to learn a language is to expose yourself to it as much as possible.
  • Listen to podcasts, music and news in the target language.
  • Watch films and series with or without subtitles.
  • Read books, newspapers or blogs, even if you don't yet understand everything.
  • Write short texts, such as diary entries or messages, to actively engage with the language.
  • Tip: Try to set up your smartphone, social media and other devices in the target language!
    
    
• Speak as much as possible.
  Many students are afraid of making mistakes, but speaking is essential!
  • Practice with native speakers via language exchange apps such as Tandem or HelloTalk.​
  • Take conversation classes or find a language buddy.
  • Speak out loud to yourself to improve pronunciation and confidence.
  • Tip: Record yourself and listen back to recognise your pronunciation and grammatical errors.
    
    
• Learn vocabulary the smart way.
  Memorising new words is easier if you use a structured approach.
  • Use flashcards (e.g. Quizlet and ANKI) to actively repeat words.
  • Learn words in context by making sentences rather than memorising individual words.
  • Group words by theme (e.g. food, travel, work) to make connections.
  • Tip: Use Spaced Repetition to repeat words and grammar at the right time. Watch this video on spaced repetition.​
    
    
• Understand grammar, but don't focus too much on rules.
  Grammar is important, but don't let it stop you from using the language.
  • Learn the basic rules and apply them in context.
  • Try to recognise patterns in sentences instead of just memorising lines.
  • Practise with short writing tasks to actively apply structures.
  • Tip: Grammar comes with time: making mistakes and correcting them will help you more than just studying the rules.
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• Make learning a habit.
  Regularity is the key to success in language learning.
  • Schedule daily short learning moments (e.g. 15-30 minutes a day).
  • Alternate between listening, reading, speaking and writing to practise all skills.
  • Set small goals, such as “read one chapter a week” or “learn five new words a day”.
  • Tip: Use the Pomodoro technique: 25 minutes of intensive learning followed by a 5-minute break.
    
    
• Use tools.
  Make use of digital tools to make learning more fun and efficient.
  • Language apps such as Duolingo, Babbel or Altissia for daily exercises.
  • Online courses and YouTube channels for structured lessons.
  • Audiobooks and listening exercises to train your ear.
  • Tip: Combine different learning methods to give your brain varied input.
    

Regular practice makes the transition from theory to practice smoother and boosts your self-confidence.

• Observe and learn from others.
  Watch carefully how experienced professionals, teachers or fellow students perform certain skills.
  
  
• Practice purposefully and regularly.
  Practice makes perfect. Simulations, role-plays or practical exercises help you become familiar with realistic situations.
  • Practice in a safe environment where mistakes are allowed.
  • Change roles regularly: performer, observer, feedback giver.
  • Make a video recording (if possible) and watch afterwards: What went well? What can be improved
  • Ask for feedback from teachers, supervisors and fellow students.
  • Practice in small, achievable steps:
    • Break down a complex action into smaller pieces.
    • Focus on technical correctness first.
    • Then work on speed and fluency.
  • Plan practice moments spread over the weeks.
    • Avoid trying to learn everything at once just before an exam or internship.
    • Regular repetition (spaced practice) works better.
  • Reflect after each exercise: What did I learn? What did I find difficult? What would I do differently next time?
    
    
• Link theory and practice.
  Actively seek the link between lectures and practical lessons.
  • Ask yourself: where do I see this in practice?
  • If you better understand why you do something, you will perform it more accurately and with more confidence.
  • For each skill, write down:
    • Which theoretical concepts or guidelines fit with this?
    • What mistakes are often made and why?
      
      
• Use checklists or step-by-step plans.
  For technical or clinical skills, roadmaps or checklists help you not to overlook anything.
  • Use them as a guide in the beginning.
  • If necessary, make your own version adapted to your learning style
    
    
• Work together.
  Practising in groups makes learning less stressful and often more fun.
  • Plan practice sessions or practice moments together.
  • Exchange experiences and tips.
  • Give each other constructive feedback.
  • Learn from each other's mistakes and successes.
    

• Visualise your ideas with sketches, mood boards or prototypes. This makes your concepts tangible and faster to communicate with others.
• Reflect regularly on your process and final results. Use self-assessments and actively seek feedback from fellow students or teachers.
• Experiment with techniques, materials and digital tools to refine your style and push your creative boundaries. Dare to play and fail.
• Document your working process: take photos, make notes and record choices. This substantiates your design and shows your evolution.
• Give yourself creative challenges, such as a project within a tight time limit or with an unusual material.
• Work in phases: idea generation, research, execution, testing. This way, you keep an overview and you can make adjustments in between.
• Keep looking for inspiration outside your field, through art, science, literature or nature. Creative ideas often arise through unexpected crossovers.
• Work together with others: cooperation stimulates new perspectives and teaches you to express your ideas clearly.
• Make a portfolio or logbook in which you collect your ideas, feedback and finished projects. This makes your growth visible and is useful for future job applications or presentations.
• Alternate sufficiently between tasks and make time for relaxation, creativity does not flourish under constant pressure. Inspiration often comes at unexpected moments.
  

• Focus on insight and reasoning, not just memorisation.
• Structure your answer: start with a short summary, give details and end with a conclusion.
• Practice out loud or with fellow students to get your answers clear and structured.
• Take some time to think before answering; this will ensure calmness and overview.
• Speak calmly and clearly, with variation in your intonation.
• Inform yourself about the the exam process (duration, examiner, aids).
  • Tip: inform yourself before the exam whether you will have time to prepare in writing!
• Prepare key answers or sample questions to answer more fluently.
• Pay attention to your non-verbal communication: eye contact, open posture, calm breathing.
• Don't know the answer right away? Think out loud and try to reason. State what you do know or ask a clarifying question.
• Suffering from stress? Focus on your breathing, keep your attention in the moment and be gentle with yourself. A little tension is normal and does not have to get in the way of your performance.
  

• Focus on understanding as well as details.
  Make sure you understand the material well, but also pay attention to details. Multiple choice questions can be very specific.
  
• Practise with old exam questions.
  Take practice exams and work with old multiple choice questions. This way you will become familiar with the question format and recognise patterns and pitfalls faster.
  
• Use elimination strategies.
  Systematically rule out wrong answer options. This increases your chance of choosing the right answer, especially when in doubt.
  
• Formulate an answer yourself first.
  Think about the right answer before looking at the choices. This helps to be less influenced by distractors.
  
• Pay attention to signal words and extreme phrasing.
  Words like ‘always’, “never”, ‘exclusively’ are often (but not always) misleading. Read carefully and attentively! It can also help to circle important words.
  
• Manage your time well.
  Don't linger too long on one question. Always fill in something, unless wrong answers are punished.
  
• Practice regularly.
  Repetition helps build understanding and avoid faulty reasoning.
  

• Understand core concepts thoroughly. Open-ended questions test your understanding and application.
• Practice structured answers by using a clear introduction, middle section and conclusion. So practise writing short essays. By writing essays regularly, you will learn to formulate more quickly and clearly, allowing you to give well-reasoned answers during the exam.
• Make summaries to see connections and better structure your answers.
• Study in themes. Instead of learning individual facts, study around themes or concepts. This will help you gain a broader understanding of the subject, making it easier to answer open-ended questions.
• Make mind maps to see and remember connections between different concepts. When you answer an open-ended question, you can easily refer to related ideas. Learn how to make a mind map here.​
  

• Rote learning is all about repetition and memorisation of facts and definitions. Flashcards and self-tests help with this. Use apps such as Quizlet and ANKI to create flashcards. Test yourself regularly to see what you already know well and what needs extra attention.
• Use Spaced Repetition to repeat key concepts and definitions at strategic moments and remember them better. Watch this video on spaced repetition.​
• Make compact summaries for a quick overview of key concepts.

By repeating a lot and testing yourself, you will store details better and increase your preparedness for the exam.

• Structure your study material: use tabs and markers to quickly find the right information.
• Learn key ideas and theories so you only need to look up details.
• Practice with exam questions and simulate how to efficiently navigate through your material.
  

By thoroughly understanding the basic concepts and training look-up skills, you will work faster and more effectively during the exam. Keep in mind that your exam time is often limited. Make sure you know exactly where in your study materials to look, so you don't waste time browsing through everything.

Beware:
Answers are rarely literally written in your textbook. You need to demonstrate that you understand the material, can make connections and solve exercises independently. So it remains essential to thoroughly digest your learning material beforehand, so that you can apply it smoothly during the exam and fall back on your material in a focused way.