Top 6 smart study tricks to boost your knowledge and retention while preparing for NEET

You all have struggled to remember that important topic in your exam hall and you are well aware that it is next to impossible to mug up all the vital formulas and theorems of such a vast NEET UG syllabus. There are also such times when you study a topic multiple times yet end up understanding nothing. 

Maintaining a proper study routine is essential for academic success, but it is not just limited to reading the hundreds of pages in a book. The main aim is to practice smart studying, with the help of which the NEET aspirants can utilize their dedicated study slots effectively, improve their memory retention and achieve better success without losing their track.

Incorporate the hidden study techniques which are less conventional but proven to be more effective that can surprisingly enhance your overall NEET UG preparation. These hidden strategies go beyond the traditional study methods but can enhance your overall learning experience.

How can I implement active learning techniques during my NEET UG preparation?

• Active learning techniques basically include the various engaging learning methods such as summarizing the chapter in your own words and using flashcards for self-analyzing the progress, that makes the NEET learning experience more engaging. 
• Creating mind maps and using visual diagrams helps to build the concept in your mind and analyze it from your own point of view. 
• Engaging in group discussions with your peers also allows you to exchange valuable information, ideas and perspectives among each other which will help you in reinforcing your knowledge and clarify the complex concepts. 
• By including these active learning methods in your study routine, you can transform your regular learning process into an interesting and enjoyable experience. Overall the students can improve their academic performance and also cultivate a strong understanding of the subjects.

Here are the smart study tricks to boost your knowledge and retention during your NEET preparation:

1. Mastering Complex Concepts using the Feynman Technique: This technique is named after the famous and renowned physicist, Richard Feynman, which involves explaining the difficult concepts to someone else in the form of teaching. Try to break down the concepts into simplified versions to make it easily understandable. By explaining the concepts to someone else, you will not only strengthen your knowledge but also you can figure out the areas where you need improvement.

Feynman thought that if you couldn’t make someone else understand any topic, you simply didn’t understand it. To follow the feynman technique:

• Select a topic either from physics, chemistry or biology that you want to learn.
• Act like you are explaining the concept to someone else.
• Break the concepts into simpler terms and use real life examples to explain your points.
• Mark the areas where you fumble while explaining.
• Revisit your study material to understand those areas.
• Repeat the steps until you are confident enough to explain the topic to someone else.

2. Memory Recall Practice: Memory recall practice is simply recalling the existing information from the memory without taking the help of any notes or textbooks that enhances long-term memory retention. Instead of just reading and revising the notes and textbooks, use flashcards and participate in quiz sessions to test your overall NEET Preparation. Here are certain methods to incorporate smart memory recall practice:

• Use Flashcards: Make flashcards to evaluate the vital NEET topics by writing the questions on one side and the answer on another. Regularly practice recalling information from these flash cards.
• Give practice Tests: Analyze your preparation by attempting full-length practice papers or mock tests that will help you to identify your progress.

3. The method of Loci Technique: This technique is widely known as the Sherlock’s method, the Loci technique method is an ancient mnemonic process that is simply used to recall a large amount of information. This method involves connecting bits of information to specific locations, so that when you travel through this route, you can recall that information easily. This loci method is useful while recalling lists and sequences. To apply this technique in your NEET Preparation, follow these steps:

• Choose a familiar location: Select a well-known place, such as your home and visualize yourself walking through it.
• Link bits of information to specific locations: Associate the vital concepts or topics with distinct objects within that location.
• Visualize creating vivid images: Visualize the key information vividly within the specific locations to solidify your memory retention.
• Recall while walking through the locations: To recall the information, mentally walk through your memory pathway and visualize the information linked with each location.

4, The process of creating chunks: Chunking refers to the process of breaking down large pieces of information into smaller and manageable parts that makes any topic easy and simpler to understand. 

5. Integrated Learning Technique: Integrated learning technique involves using both verbal and visual information to escalate your memory and understanding ability. While studying, you can try out making visual aids like making diagrams and mind maps. 

• Mind maps: Create a link where you can connect and organize different concepts visually.
• Diagrams: Create diagrams and flowcharts to visually represent information.
• Visual data representations: You can try to summarize the entire chapter into some visually engaging data visuals like charts.
   

6. The SQ3R study approach: The SQ3R study approach stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite and Review. This is a great technique for the NEET aspirants.

• Survey: Quickly have a thorough check in your NEET syllabus and your study material and get an idea of the content that you need to learn. This will enable you to learn and understand the main points before starting your NEET preparation.
• Question: Create topic-oriented questions. This will help you to focus on the key information and guide you on the right track.
• Read: Read the content of the material thoroughly to find the answers of the questions. Pay attention to the concepts and try to understand the important details.
• Recite: Try to summarize the concepts that you have read in your own words. This will help you to remember the concepts for a longer time.

NOTE: This study approach will make your study sessions more engaging, thereby helping you to prepare more effectively for the NEET exam.

FAQS:
1. How can regular revision benefit my NEET preparation?

Regular revision ensures that you revisit the concepts and theories on a regular basis, thereby reinforcing your memory and increasing your knowledge retention power.

2. How can Pomodoro technique improve my study sessions?

The pomodoro technique states that after every 25 minutes of study sessions, a short 5 minute break can help the student enhance their focus and preserve their energy, thereby preventing burnout.

3. Can flashcards improve my retention power?

Yes. Using flashcards during your preparation not only helps you to recall information actively, but also helps to remember the key concepts through regular revision.