Medical school differs greatly from your undergraduate education. Medical school students are given higher quantities of material to interpret, analyze, and understand, and the material is far more complex. This high level of learning requires students to develop a strong work ethic and utilize strategic study techniques to be successful. Consider the effective tips below to improve your study habits in medical school.
Know that Medical School is Different
As previously described, medical school studies are more intense than your undergraduate studies. In your undergraduate years, you may have waited until the last minute to cram for an exam. While this approach might have worked then, it certainly will not work in medical school. Medical school students at the American University of Antigua dedicate an average of 60-65 hours a week to their studies. There is very specific information that you must be able to understand, retain, and apply. Therefore, having only general knowledge of the material will not be sufficient.
Be Proactive
In your undergraduate studies, you may have waited until you were notified of an exam date before you started studying. In medical school, you need to be proactive and study regularly, regardless of when your next exam is scheduled. You should go over the day’s lesson before the lecture, take notes during the lecture, review the information (and take notes), and then test yourself. Time management can be a challenge here. Utilize a planner to keep track of your assignments and schedule a specific time for studying.
Get Enough Rest
With the heavy workload medical school students experience, it can be easy to miss out on sleep. You should be getting at least 6-8 hours of sleep every night. Anything less inhibits your ability to listen, think, and retain information effectively, as well as increases your risk of getting sick. Don’t forget to take care of yourself by getting enough sleep to restore and rejuvenate your body and mind. Also, maintain a healthy, nutrient-rich diet to give your body the energy and nutrition it needs for the day.
Medical school can seem overwhelming and challenging, but following the above tips and staying positive will improve your study habits and help you achieve success in medical school and beyond.