Top Study Tips to Succeed in Your BA (Hons) Business Degree
Succeeding in a Business degree requires more than just attending lectures—it’s about developing effective study habits that help you manage your time, stay organized, and absorb key concepts. Whether you're studying at Holmes Institute Dublin or anywhere else, these top study tips will help you get the most out of your academic journey and set you up for success in your business career.
1. Create a Study Schedule and Stick to It
One of the most effective ways to stay on track is to create a study schedule. Plan out your week by allocating specific times for lectures, assignments, and study sessions. Be realistic about how much time you need for each task and remember to include breaks. Consistency is key—sticking to your schedule helps build a routine and prevents last-minute cramming.
Tip: Use digital planners like Google Calendar or apps like Notion to organize your study schedule and get reminders.
2. Break Down Large Tasks into Manageable Pieces
Big assignments or upcoming exams can feel overwhelming, but breaking them down into smaller tasks makes them more manageable. Focus on one section or chapter at a time, and set small goals for each study session. This method, often called "chunking," allows you to make steady progress without feeling stressed.
Tip: Use the Pomodoro Technique, which involves studying for 25 minutes, then taking a 5-minute break. Repeat the cycle four times before taking a longer break.
3. Prioritize Your Study Sessions
Not all subjects are created equal—some topics might require more time and effort than others. Start by focusing on the subjects you find most challenging. Prioritize your study sessions based on deadlines, exams, and the importance of each topic.
Tip: Use a "priority matrix" to categorize tasks based on their urgency and importance, and tackle the high-priority tasks first.
4. Active Learning: Engage with the Material
Passive reading is not enough to retain complex business concepts. Instead, practice active learning—this involves engaging with the material through discussions, flashcards, quizzes, and teaching the content to someone else. The more actively you interact with the information, the better you'll remember it.
Tip: After reading a chapter, write down the key concepts in your own words or try explaining them to a friend. This technique helps reinforce your understanding.
5. Take Regular Breaks to Recharge
Studying for long hours without breaks can lead to burnout. It’s important to give your brain some downtime to process information. Schedule short breaks during study sessions and longer breaks after completing major tasks. Use this time to stretch, grab a healthy snack, or go for a walk.
Tip: Try the 50-10 method—study for 50 minutes and take a 10-minute break to recharge your mind.
6. Make Use of Recommended Study Resources
Holmes Institute Dublin recommends a variety of helpful resources, including study guides, tutoring sessions, and access to academic papers, to assist with understanding complex subjects. To further enhance your learning, explore additional tools like business podcasts, YouTube channels, and online platforms such as Coursera and Khan Academy for supplementary support.
Tip: Join study groups with fellow students—collaborating with peers can introduce you to new perspectives and help clarify difficult topics.
7. Stay Organized with Notes
Good note-taking is crucial for understanding and recalling key information. Use a system that works for you—whether it’s digital note-taking apps like OneNote or traditional notebooks, ensure that your notes are clear and well-organized. Highlight key terms, create summaries, and use diagrams to visually represent information.
Tip: Review your notes weekly to reinforce what you’ve learned and identify any gaps in understanding.
8. Take Care of Your Wellbeing
Studying hard is important, but so is looking after your mental and physical health. Make time for regular exercise, eat nutritious meals, and ensure you're getting enough sleep. Remember, a healthy body leads to a sharper mind, making you more productive and focused during study sessions.
Tip: Incorporate relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or mindfulness exercises into your routine to reduce stress and maintain a clear mind.
9. Prepare for Exams Early
Don’t wait until the last minute to start studying for exams. Review your notes regularly, practice with past exam papers, and focus on areas where you feel less confident. Starting early gives you plenty of time to revise and ensures you enter the exam room feeling prepared.
Tip: Create a "cheat sheet" with key formulas, concepts, and terms—writing it down helps with memory retention, even if you can’t bring it into the exam.
10. Stay Motivated and Set Goals
Setting both short-term and long-term goals keeps you motivated throughout the semester. Whether it’s acing your midterm exam or landing a business internship, having clear goals gives you something to work towards. Celebrate small victories along the way to keep your momentum going.
Tip: Visualize your success and remind yourself why you’re pursuing a business degree. Positive reinforcement can help push you through tough study sessions.
.jpg)
%20hid.jpg)
