How to better retain info during studying

[Throwback24]

I have horrible memory, I often misplace my keys and wallet but I'm somewhat more efficient when it comes to studying. My study patterns work but would simply reading over the text be enough? I understand the concepts but I want everything I read to internalize and stick.

Any advice? I could also use some advice on how to keep appointments and not losing things but I've got mid terms and learning how study effectively is of more importance to me @ the moment.

[alekseykravtsun]

I am loosing/forgeting things too, so I set a check list on exit door, looks like

I have to pick up with me

1. My ID
2. Keys
3. Wallet with bus and metro tickets
4. Electronic keys (3)
and so on...

Helps really good, just check every morning all your pockets, confirm every point and ready to go to work.

[Throwback24]

Do you check your pockets throughout the day?

[Cran]

I don't think that there is a one-fits-all-approach to learning.
Yes, for me, it is enough to read the text and retain the crucial information, although not the details (like, Pope XY had a wart on his chin).
But that's just me. Some people learn better when they hear something, as opposed to read, or see something visualized (think mind map). Some need a peaceful environment, others study best with music or in a busy Starbucks.
It is up to you to figure out how you learn best. But sitting still at a table and re-read a text a thousand times is not necessarily the best method, only because most schools teach that to the poor children! (Well, I do that too -classroom discipline and silence helps and relaxes at least the teacher...)

An effective way to learn anything is, in my opinion, to connect it with things you already know. While learning a language, I try to make up references or pictures that will remind me of the meaning of the word I am trying to commit to mermory.

For keys etc.: Establish a routine. If you put your keys always in the bag you're always taking with you, you can hardly forget them, can you?

[Tanja]

Originally Posted by Throwback24

but I want everything I read to internalize and stick.

For me personally, if I have a small amount of material to cover, I'm able to read it and memorize it. However, if I need to go through a lot of material,I'd say repetition is the key for me. First I only read one chunk to get a big picture, then I re-read it and make notes (mind mapping works well for me as I'm a very visual person), and later it is enough for me to only ''scan'' the map for revision.

As far as misplacing keys and wallet goes, set a place where you always put them.
For keeping appointments, well...write them down, set the alarm on your cell phone...that's what I do

[Scipio]

Anki, Supermemo, Mnemosyne