I’ll be honest: I like learning, but I don’t always like studying. Something drew each of us to engineering, so as we go through the next few years, we each have to remember that the process (studying) is part of the promise (becoming an engineer).

Here are a few tips to help with the process: (the trials and errors of studying)

1. Remember your why

It’s easy for life as an engineering student to feel like a routine, so a reminder about why you started can provide motivation on the days when you simply don’t want to.

2. Plan your study time

Take a few minutes before the week begins to draw up a rough sketch of what you’ll study every day. Before each day begins (either the night before or the morning of), take a few minutes to think about your study hours and what you hope to get done — don’t “over” plan or “under”!

3. Time to study

Actually study! If you know you’re not in the mood, maybe find a light assignment to start on. Oftentimes, we can keep going once we start. We simply need to start.

• I like to change my environment sometimes so I am eager to start.
• I take breaks, so I can start again.
• I try new study methods such as changing the blocks of study time and rest time or simply going with the flow.
• I have days of full-on study mode and days with distractions interwoven into my study time such as texting  or watching some YouTube videos.

4. Plan your break time

Don’t work without resting and don’t rest without working. In engineering, it can be difficult to do both. Try out different break times, from 5-minute to 30-minute chunks.

5. Form study groups

Study groups definitely help with asking for help, especially from your peers who likely have the same questions you do. The energy from studying in a group often gives me the drive to study. Ask for help early, but it’s never too late (hopefully)!

Check out the Academic Success Center to learn more.

Studying involves trials and errors. As much as a lot of engineering students like formulas, there is no formula for studying. Each class, assignment, day, semester, major is different. Just keep trying and learning! The process makes the promise worth it. The promise makes the process worth it.