Study Skills

When we are young, we study because it is required of us. We have been told that education opens doors to better employment, higher status, and financial security. So the first few decades of our life, we plod through our schoolwork. Once that phase of life is over, most of us are reluctant to spend our time in serious study again.

When was the last time you studied something other than when it was required for a class or work? Maybe you were researching what kind of insurance would be a good fit for you family, or the health benefits of a particular food, or the current tax laws. Studying involves more than reading. It necessitates active processing of information, analysis, problem solving and comprehension. When I am studying, I usually take notes, highlight phrases, try to take concepts apart, look at it from different angles, use reference books—whatever I need to do to grasp the subject matter.

We have more opportunity for studying these days than in any other time in history. Through the internet, we can access information on any subject, in a multitude of languages, at any time of day, without even leaving our home. Thousands of books are available for free at public libraries. Study guides break down complex information and present it in easily understandable formats. Sadly, most adults take these opportunities for granted and would rather spend time on other pursuits. 

Studying is like opening the door to a wonderful world. Let’s say you live indoors all the time. You have plenty to do, and all your basic needs are met without ever stepping outside. You get glimpses of the outdoors through your windows—and it looks interesting—but you are reluctant to exert yourself or leave the comfort of a controlled environment. Daily, you pass by doors that you could open, doors that would allow you to walk out into this fascinating realm—but you choose not to. You have a myriad of reasons for this choice. You feel like you are past that phase in life. You’re too busy, you’re too tired, your mind isn’t as sharp as it used to be…

Well here is a great way to sharpen that mind: spend 30 minutes a day studying something you are interested in. Read a passage of scripture and really study it. Or if you are interested in the efficacy of solar panels—learn about the details. Or if hummingbirds fascinate you—find out everything you can about their diet, migration, gender differences, and unique physical adaptations. We might have to give up 30 minutes of watching TV, or online activities, or reading meaningless fluff to make time for this. Now, if you are one of those people who spend all day poring over information as part of your work—please disregard this. Just step outside and study a tree, or the sky, or a bird—just experience nature for 30 minutes.