Studying for nursing requires a great deal of time and dedication. Knowing that, you will want to know the best way to study to make your learning process a success. Lacking the understanding of how to study will make it more difficult for you, especially when the time comes to take your state board exams. Here are some great tips for the nursing student who wants to have a strong grasp on his or her studies, and be the best nurse possible.
Taking Care of You First
In order to be able to study effectively, you need to be healthy and well rested. Make sure that you are eating foods that are good for you, and consuming plenty of nutrients to keep your body healthy. Sleep is just as important, so get a good seven or eight hours of restful sleep each night. Staying up late to study only defeats the purpose, as it is unlikely that you will remember what you have learned the next day. Have a routine bedtime on most nights of the week. Study a couple of hours before bed, and then review the material in the morning, if time permits. The brain does not function well unless it is nourished and rested.
Where to Study
You will want to find a quiet place to do your studying for nursing, preferably an area that is neat and lacks clutter. Clutter is distracting, and distractions are what you don't need when you are trying to understand and memorize material. If you are getting bored with the place that you are studying, mix it up a bit. Try studying in other places, such as the library, a cafe, the park or another area without excessive distractions. Wherever you decide to study, make sure that your study time will be uninterrupted by others. Do not try to study for three hours straight without taking a break, though. Study for 45 minutes or so, and then get up and move about a bit. Go to the bathroom, get a snack or spend a few minutes in a conversation with someone in order to break things up and get the blood flowing again.
How to Study
If you are someone who does well on their own, then studying for nursing by yourself may be ideal for you. Some people find it beneficial to study in small groups, at least once in a while; however, you should still study by yourself most of the time. Studying in a group can get tricky because of the different schedules involved. The great thing about studying by yourself is that you can study whenever it is convenient to you. Set small goals for yourself — one day learn new medications and the next day learn one of the body systems. A concentrated effort is needed to learn all about the human body. Be sure that you are taking notes in the classroom or recording your instructors' lessons. Follow up with your instructor immediately if there is something that you are not understanding. Any information that is especially difficult to recall should be studied repeatedly.
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