Tools for daily student life

How do I set goals for myself, go about tackling them, and keep at it without distractions?

Motivation is what inspires us to work towards achieving a goal which we regard as positive. What do successful academic experiences mean to me? Why is it worth solving a series of problems, studying for the next examination or sketching out a research plan for a Master’s thesis?

You can strengthen motivation by

• knowing where you currently stand;
• knowing the goals you want to work towards;
• having a realistic plan for achieving them step by step.

What type of learner am I? What study strategy suits me the best? What study methods are there?

Independent, systematic studying is both a requirement and a learning objective in every academic programme. You will develop this learning competence during your first semester and continue to improve it throughout your studies. Here are a few tips.

A good learning process involves

• Clear, measurable learning objectives
• A structured study plan (dosing out of material, time planning, learning checks etc.)
• Regular studying
• Regular breaks
  
• A study method which is right for you
• A supportive study environment (few distractions, a positive atmosphere etc.)
• The courage to do things in a way that works for you

How can I organise my life so that I have enough time for lectures, studying and leisure (such as club activities)? How can I treat myself to a regular day off in good conscience?

Studying means more than acquiring disciplinary skills. Learning to motivate yourself and to organise your tasks is just as important. Try out various techniques and use the ones that work for you. These might be, for example, a comprehensive weekly plan, or a simple to-do list.

Time management involves

• Developing a daily routine for yourself
• Planning the time available to you and using it productively

Having enough leisure time and breaks

Out of balance?
You will only perform well if you are feeling balanced and content. Temporary intensive phases during your studies are normal – if they have a concrete goal and do not last too long. Constant stress, however, leads to difficulties with concentration, diminishes performance and damages your health. Do a “studies and health” self-assessment test of your stress level and find out where you stand.

Is it difficult for you to find a long-term balance between studies and relaxation? Looking at your time management might be a first step.

“We should address big problems while they are still small.” (Jadwiga Rutkowska)

How can I get through that mountain of examination material in such a short time?

Examinations can be treated as projects. Planning how to study and prepare for examinations is thus nothing other than project management, which involves setting goals, planning, implementation and completion. Here time management can be a big help.

Good study planning takes into account

• The goals targeted
• The time available
• The current status in comparison with the goals
• The aids required (e.g. exercises, old examinations)

Good study planning features

• Interim goals
• The allotted time and activities
• Set priorities

Good study planning is

• realistic
• motivating
• flexible and adaptable to the situation

How do oral examinations work? What study techniques help? Why is nonverbal communication (e.g. body language) important?

Oral examinations must be specially prepared for and practised. An oral examination is an active dialogue between you and your lecturer. It addresses detailed knowledge and the interconnections of this knowledge. This demands conceptual thinking and verbal fluency. Both can be honed by training.

For a good result, pay attention to the following.

• Information:
  During the course, ask the lecturers how the examination will proceed and what will be expected of you.
• Preparation from material:
  When you study, make connections among the material which make sense, and use techniques such as mind maps, outlines or flow diagrams.
• Practice:
  Train with your colleagues. Explain interconnections, and deploy technical terms.
• Examination:
  Communicate more than just answers. Think aloud when you solve problems, and request clarification if a question is unclear. Maintain eye contact and gestures when you communicate. This will enable examiners to help you out if necessary.
  
  

How do I motivate myself again after failing an examination? What can I do, concretely, to make things go better next time? And what do the regulations say?

1. The first shock:
   Failing an examination can be a shock and may generate anger, incomprehension or desperation. Take note of your feelings and accept them.
2. Rest:
   Take a break. A defeat is confusing. Unwind and look at the situation calmly. Treat yourself to something.
3. Analyse:
   What caused you to fail? Did you underestimate the time you needed to prepare? Were there gaps in content which you did not address? Did you make careless mistakes or did you just have bad luck, and questions were set which you did not prioritise? Next time you can pay attention and not repeat them.
4. View the examination:
   It is important to understand what you got right in your study efforts, what tasks you understood and what questions you could answer well. And what you can improve for next time.
   Information sheet: Download Viewing of performance assessments (PDF, 122 KB)
   
5. Move on:
   Don’t brood for too long – look ahead and plan your next steps.
6. Learn from your mistakes:
   What have you understood about yourself from this experience? What competences has the experience strengthened?