The Secret every teacher knows about studying

Most think that studying means you have to just consume the course material. (Click here to see a few ways of doing that). But if you really want to excel you need to realize that a good studying strategy doesn't just mean you devour knowledge... it means you need to produce it too.

Courtesy of Flickr - Steven S.

You see, it's easy to come by and store knowledge if you learn to understand well. So how do you understand better?

1) For the visually oriented

Write the material in your own words. Draw figures. Figure out and even design your own problems to solve. Make a power point presentation. Build something.

2) For those who are more auditory

Review your material out loud. Let your ears hear it! Close the door to your room, lecture your pet, or better yet, a friend or two (with their explicit permission!). 

This is how teachers know their material... because they take the time to produce it. The downside of this technique is that it requires a lot of time, so you need to prioritize.

So what's the secret in a few words? If you want to study well, teach yourself!

By Marc Mikhael, Ph.D.

The Apprentice's Compass - Navigate University!

5 killer methods for studying - make sure you have them in your toolbox!

I was a freshman and faced with a daunting task... studying for my first university exam. How would I go about studying? In school, I must have studied... I say 'must have' because, though I did rather well, I honestly don't remember studying! But university is a totally different matter (for many reasons which I won't go over here). So I sat there wondering how to go about studying. Would I look at my notes? Textbook? Lectures? I ended up studying for hours - needlessly.

Do you recognize this place from your a movie or two?
Courtesy of Flickr - Justin Kern

If you want to succeed in university, you're going to have to develop a studying strategy. Why wait till your have years of experience? The first step in developing said strategy, is to learn a few studying techniques. Here is where you'll have to experiment with while trying different combinations in various situations. These are absolutely essential tools to have your in uni-toolbox! 

1) Study by writing notes

The first method I employed in studying, especially information rich general biology courses, was to write out an entirely new set of notes, complete with highlights, outlines, colored figures, nice handwriting and literately everything that was covered.

Pros: This technique gives you a second chance to assimilate what you haven't understood or learnt, and to reinforce what you have as you sit rewriting all the course material that's covered. Use this method and be confident you've truly studied everything.

Cons: It takes a huge amount of your precious time, even if you type it out. This method is extremely time consuming, something you'll learn how to manage. With time, and especially if your aim is to go to Med school, you'll find that  you can't afford to take too much time to study.

2) Write cards

Buy a set of hand sized cards. One side will have a word or a concept, and on the other, a figure, detailed notes, or a definition.

Pros: This technique is incredibly useful when you need to memorize. It is also quite handy and you can use them just about anywhere. Like the first technique mentioned in this post, the writing you do helps you in the studying as well. It's also quite effective since it involves effort on your part to verbalize the information your studying when you use the cards.

Cons: For some particular topics, this method is THE method to use. However, you'll find that this technique may be ill-suited for your purposes. In addition, it may take a lot of time to write the cards (not as much as the first method).

3) Review the lecture

Take your notes, the teacher's lecture notes, power point presentations or the recorded lecture (or whatever combination you may have) and read/watch them. 

Pros: It can be quite useful when you're in a rush. Learn how to skim through the material can also make it even less time consuming. It's also a good way to take in a general overview of the material and see what the important points are for the exam. This may be an excellent way to review courses in the field of humanities, too.

Cons: It's not as specific. If the material requires a lot of memorization, this technique is not likely going to be a perfect fit. A huge con is the fact that sometimes your teacher will include things that you didn't cover in class. Which brings us to the last technique.

4) Read the text book

Just open your text book and read effectively all chapters required for the exam. 

Pros: Congratulations, you've figured a way to study that's makes your prof useless! (Not really... going to class really helps you, but in terms of studying for an exam, you're basically learning the stuff on your own). This an excellent technique that can be applied to many subjects/courses. In addition, if you've missed class or find your teacher hard to understand, this is the thing to do. Naturally, it can be accompanied by the first method covered in this post.

Cons: Have you ever noticed how when you read, you sometimes find that while still technically reading, you're actually day dreaming or thinking about something else... at the same time!? That's because you've come across a word or concept that you didn't understand. This technique needs you to study in a place and way where you are in prime mental condition. You need to pay attention and be extremely focused.  Sometimes, it can also take a large amount of time, especially if you're not in prime cognitive condition.

5) Studying in a group

Get together with a friend or group of class mates and study using one of the above methods. Questions will come up and be answered. Review concepts together.

Pros: It's fun! Besides that, both asking and answering questions can reinforce concepts and help you master them for the exam. Make sure to complement this with some studying on your own before you meet your friends. It also builds your social skills... something that you can't take a course for!

Cons: It can be distracting and in some cases, a complete waste of time. Both you and the people you study with need to be serious about getting the job done. Sometimes you'll end up spending too much time on one topic, especially if you're friends are a bit slower. 


In time, you'll understand when and how to use these techniques. But if you want to be a pro, you need to develop a studying strategy. This is just the beginning. 

By Marc Mikhael, Ph.D.

The Apprentice's Compass - Navigate University!

Want a good social life? Avoid these 9 pitfalls.

The title of the post should have been "5 things people can't stand about you". Oh but that's way too harsh!, Instead, I'd rather steer you through the stormy winds of university society through gentler waters.

Courtesy of Flickr - Miguel Pires da Rosa

What does this have to do with studying science? A lot! Scientists are notorious for being incredibly, socially awkward... just take a look at me (j/k). Lab life, intense focus and high levels of intellectualism can often make people distant, rude and incomprehensible. You're time in university can lead to life-long friendships, a huge network of useful contacts and much more. It's therefore really important you take care to avoid these things that are sure to repel people away.

1) Negative attitude, negative words

Nobody likes to be around complainers and naggers, the grumpy and grudgeful. These people carry their own personal thunder clouds above their heads and soak their companions till they are bitterly cold. Instead of berating your teachers, students or the place you're living in, decide to focus on the positive things you're experiencing. If you're prone to using vulgar speech, start making an effort to speak politely. One of the first negative things that'll strike me about a person is vulgar talk and believe me this will severely limit your ability to land decent jobs. You're in university to learn how to enter the professional and civil world. So act like it!

2) Always talking about yourself

The narcissist. We all love ourselves, at least I hope you do! Make sure to take the time to appreciate your peers, ask how they are, get to know them, and be genuinely concerned for their issues. Not only is this a sure way to make friends, it's also a rare quality of good leaders.

3) Being constantly in crisis mode

Some people are always in trouble, always in the midst of problems, and always the victim. Take care that you don't reinforce these patterns in your life by always saying so. These may be genuine issues your going through, but they do not define you. Let your identity be built on who you really are, rather then the transient troubles you're going through. Friends are there to comfort you, but you end up tiring both them and yourself when you always come to them for help.

4) Neglecting your hygiene

This has to be said! Though few have this problem, those that do can end up going for years without knowing it... someone has to tell them, don't you think so? (Hmmm, perhaps a discrete share of this article on Facebook would do!) Bad breath, body odor and the like doesn't just annoy students and teachers, it can really cause serious impediments in your careers regardless of how qualified and talented they may be. Why is it that guys don't shower? I'm not sure, but it's definitely a fact; we tend to skip showers far more easily than girls.

5) Smoking

Argh. One more reason to quit smoking. Enough said.

6) Being rude or arrogant

When I joined my high school, I found out shortly afterward that I had somehow made enemies. I was completely perplexed by this phenomenon and couldn't understand why, till one day some one confessed, "Marc, you never say hi.". I was shocked - I had never intentionally snubbed anybody, but regardless of that, by not greeting them back I had given all the impression that I was not only rude, but to proud to associate with them. If I hadn't corrected this so quickly, I would have earned a difficult reputation to shake off! And if it so happens that when I cross your path I don't recognize you, please don't hold me to the same fault!

7) Being a know it all

You may know it all and that's good. But practice modesty. Give others the chance to look good! Sure, you should answer the the occasional question, but why not ask intelligent questions instead once in while?

8) Talking in class

On behalf of all teachers and students, if you're not interested don't go to class! And if you really have to express yourself, and this does happen, do it discreetly; a note, a text message, a look. Don't let the prof catch you though - some don't tolerate even that.

9) Always looking at your phone

When in the company of others, put your phone down and always apologize when you do have to take a call or check your texts. When you do this you demean the other person and are indirectly telling them they are not important to you. While this is certainly problematic during office hours, engaging in this activity in the presence of your girlfriend is far worse!

Now it's your turn: Did I miss anything?

By Marc Mikhael, Ph.D.

The Apprentice's Compass - Navigate University!

Choosing a career? How to find out if it's financially worth it.

I've written about why money matters before (click here to read that post). But how do you go about determining whether your desired future career is financially worth it? Firstly, realize that;

Courtesy of Flickr - Ken Teegarden

1) Supply and demand applies to everything.

Learn what the historical and current supply & demand for this work is. The internet is a great place to start. But if possible, ask someone in the field who can tell you where this type of business might be headed in the next few years to come and what is the overall outlook for that market. Don't forget to find out where this line of work is needed and where it will be needed by the time you graduate. You'll also want to see if the field is saturated and how quick new positions are being made available.

2) Find out the numbers $$$

This takes research, using the connections you already have and sometimes guts to approach these people you've never met before. Once you do that, observe their lifestyles. Are they happy with their careers? Why or why not? What kind of salary can you expected to earn? What is the job security like?

Note, if you just find out whether that line of work is in demand or not, you might be terribly disappointed to discover that the salaries and ability to rise in the ranks is severely limited when it's too late. Or conversely, neglect to research supply and demand dynamics, and you might realize that it's only a ridiculous few who are able to acquire these positions you desire in the first place.

Trust me; don't learn the hard way, plan ahead!

By Marc Mikhael, Ph.D.
The Apprentice's Compass - Navigate University!

Choosing a career? Money matters!

Mankind and money have a long history. It's the matrix of trade through which we acquire all we need and a lot of what we at least think we want. In the end, it's just a tool to facilitate trade and productivity... and it should be a major consideration when you choose your careers.

Courtesy of Flickr - Rosh Sillars

I used to think that it was vain to talk about money when considering a career. Now that I have a lovely family, I recognize that it just simply isn't wise (or even feasible) to exclude the money factor when you're considering a career. I used to think that one should steer the course of his life based solely upon the common good, his inherent talents and his proclivity to the type of work being considered. But thinking about the monetary gain a potential career might give you in the future is a very noble and intelligent use of the investment you (or your parents) are making by going to university; afterall your decisions today will drastically affect your future family - perhaps your yet to be found spouse and children yet to be born. (Yes, some of you, may already have a family, and some may never want to have one, yet this is still important).

The truth is there are plenty who are greedy for money and both those with and without the stuff can easily fall into mindset of never having enough. I've never met a greedy person who was satisfied in life, joyful and healthy. 

So why does money matter? Well, no matter how much you'll like your career, knowing that you are appreciated and rewarded financially will greatly enhance your satisfaction. When cash is low, when it's hard to provide for your needs and those of your loved ones, the discomfort that brings will sap out the joy from all you do.

That being said, I'm not saying pick a career that'll make you a millionaire... (becoming wealthy isn't merely a matter of career choice!). You got to analyze what your long term goals are and then make use of your time spent in university to cater to those goals.

I'd like to leave with one last point... no matter what you end up doing, remember, you are not what you work. Just because you've relegated yourself to one degree, one career or one job doesn't mean things should stay that way or that you can't pursue completely different paths.

Never box yourself in with false identities, be quick to think outside the box and dare to pursue your dreams no matter what 'stage' of life you find yourself in. Afterall, good dreams are meant to come true!

So how exactly do you go about determining whether it's financially worth it? Click here to find out!


By Marc Mikhael, Ph.D.
The Apprentice's Compass - Navigate University!

7 ways to make studying funner

When you like what you study, you naturally enjoy it. You read because you want to learn and not simply garble up as much as you can so you regurgitate it later on an exam. So what's the key to study a subject that you might not like so much and have fun?

1) Listen to music

The kind that puts you in a good mood, yeah?

2) Make plans for the evening (or after your study)

This will give you something to look forward to and break the dreariness of books and notes.

3) Enjoy your favorite drink

Grab that cup of coffee, tea or juice. Sip away and enjoy the the drink.

4) Study in an environment you like

Are you café person? Enjoy the outdoors? Prefer the quiet and booky halls of a library? Like the crowds? Then migrate to those places to do your studying.

5) Watch a movie in the background

This doesn't work with all people (or all movies). If you have a favorite movie you've watched many times, it's great to have it running in the background. (Don't tell anyone this, but that's how I wrote my Ph.D. thesis... watching Shrek!)

6) Study with others

This is a great way to study, not just because it makes the experience funner, but also because when you're in an environment where you are either asking or being asked the questions, it sharpens your mind and helps it assimilate the material better. Besides, it's also an excellent way of building relationships that will last a lifetime.

7) Take frequent, short breaks

Have you ever noticed how sometimes you get far more done in far less time, while in other situations, though you languish hours at your desk you only accomplish little? Enhancing the effectiveness of your studying is key to succeeding in university. One of the easiest ways to do this, is to take short, but frequent breaks. You can grab a bite to eat, talk to someone or take a stroll and enjoy the day. You're mind will appreciate the break and come back hungry for more.

When all is said, university is meant to be an exciting, adventurous and joyful part of life. Don't squander your time by studying grudgingly. Learn what ways you can ameliorate your studying, then apply and perfect them. You'll not only get better grades, you'll enrich your life too!

By Marc Mikhael, Ph.D.
The Apprentice's Compass - Navigate University!

Cram well - 6 tips for emergency studying

It's Friday night. That Monday morning exam seems like a long way off. You go out with your friends, sleep in on Saturday and waddle through the day in your pajamas. A little (or really more like a lot) of Facebook & WhatsApp here, some phone calls there and soon Saturday is gone and Sunday has arrived.

Don't Panic!
(photo courtesy of Flick - Miguel Angel)

I hate cramming. I totally loathe it. But lets face it, sometimes plans fail and you find yourself in that situation. Other times, like the case above... well, let's not harp on that. It's done. But you still have time and however little it is, what you do with it can make the difference between passing or failing, even a course!

Here are some tips to help you 'crunch study':

1) Prioritize

This is absolutely essential. It's unreasonable to go over every subject that's on the test. What do you think is the most important topic? The answer will likely lie in what your professor spent the most time explaining (another excellent reason to go to class and listen!). So quickly survey all the material you need and study and select the key chapters, topics or concepts you need to know well. This means that you'll have to make some calculated 'sacrifices'.

2) Organize

Now, it's time to schedule your day (or night). Don't exaggerate your capabilities. Sacrificing sleep for a few hours more of study may actually be detrimental as it'll leave you unfocused for the exam. Make sure you set reasonable goals and mark your progress.

3) Take frequent, short breaks

Studying intensely doesn't means studying continuously. On these short breaks, eat a snack, prepare a cup of coffee, take a walk outside, or chat with someone. I wouldn't advise going online... time has a tendency to slip through your fingers in virtual reality.

4) Eat and drink well.

Caffeine is an excellent stimulant. Drink tea/coffee or eat some dark chocolate - all in moderation. You know your body. (Sorry, I have to say this: only do this if it's medically safe for you to do so) Drink water. Don't eat huge meals. Try other foods that are said to enhance your mental performance.

5) Rest or take a nap.

After studying for a few hours, you'll need sometime to recuperate. The key is to make sure you study effectively when you do study. Studying mindlessly for many hours is of little benefit compared to a couple hours of effective and efficient studying.

6) Learn from your mistakes

Ok. You did it. Bad decisions will happen in your life. No problem. Learn from your mistakes and move on. This experience should make you treasure studying well through out the semester and keep you from waiting till the last minute!

By Marc Mikhael, Ph.D.
The Apprentice's Compass - Navigate University!

How to get more out of multiple choice questions... think!

I was a sophomore and it was nothing more than a simple general biology quiz. I got it! No worries. Due to my exceptional organization skills I studied only one of the two major topics I had to cover. No worries! Did I say that already?

Photo courtesy of Flickr - John Gatenby

The chapter I failed to study was on immunology. Now that I've done research on macrophages - one of the major components of the immune system - for years of my life, I have to tell you; immunology still is an undiscovered and little understood world of names, receptors and cytokines to me.

"But, Sir, don't you teach that in class?"

Never mind. No worries! Stay focused, we're talking about an exam that I could have potentially failed miserably... but somehow ended up with an above average grade. I must be a genius! Or is it something to do with multiple choice? I had my suspicions.

Every student enters into the classroom to take a multiple choice exam with a fixed amount of knowledge about a topic. Some come in with more, others less, but how you translate what you know to how well you do on the test is a completely different matter.

The reason for this - and why you can actually do far better on multiple choice exams even if you haven't studied that well -  is simply because biology makes sense! Really, it does.

So what does that mean for your multiple choice exam? It means that when you get to the question about that concept that you either didn't study or couldn't understand in time, you can greatly increase your chances of getting it right simply by;

1) Observing every choice, calmly.

2) Discount every answer you know is not true.

3) Mark every answer you know is true.

4) Think, analyze and deduce.

Now you're left with choices you are unsure of. Most will attempt to guess at this stage. Don't! They've already exhausted their knowledge data banks and can't remember anything more. Here is where you need to think, analyze and deduce. Ask yourself which answer makes more sense. Try to remember other systems that might be remotely similar. Draw a figure and theorize what the answer could be. Be creative and use logic.

5) Now, choose your answer and move on.

Simple, huh? All this shouldn't take more than a minute or two. I tell you, over the long run this will help you score significantly higher. Anyhow, after a couple of years of these kind of questions, you'll figure this out on your own. But why not take advantage of a head start?

Now it's your turn: Do you prefer multiple choice or short answer questions? Why?

By Marc Mikhael, Ph.D.

The Apprentice's Compass - Navigate University! 

The secret of mastering Biology

Of all the sciences, biology has got to be the most complex field of study. I'm not saying that because I'm a biologist. It's a fact... in my opinion (does that make it less of a fact?).

Photo credits: Shutterstock-Sergey Neven

Take for example, a single cell at the tip of your finger. It contains over 10,000 different kinds of proteins. Now imagine, the largest and most complex organization or company in the world. Could you honestly say there's some corporation with that many job posts? Even the most advanced machines mankind has developed pale in comparison to any of these cells.

The human brain is perhaps the most complex thing we know of. It has more connections than all the internet and electrical connections of the world. Besides the fact that we still have no clue how the relationship between our thoughts and brains work out, it stands apart as a machine with sophistication beyond anything we are capable of making or even conceiving.

So what does this have to do with mastering biology? 

The answers lies in the connections and relationships of every biological system you study. Everything is related and tied together in biology. Tiny and seemingly insignificant molecular changes in a single cell type can alter an organism. When a number of organisms are thus affected, that change is then translated into the environment, which then works it ways back to the level of molecules.

This is key in mastering biology. You have to be able to see the bigger picture no matter how microscopic the image you're studying is. The opposite is also true. In my experience as a researcher, I haven't seen too many scientists who have developed this key practice. This is a skill you can learn and it starts by asking the right questions, like the following:

How does this relate to what we previously studied?

Have I seen anything similar before? (You'll find a lot of repetitive principles in nature.)

What would happen if this process didn't exist?

How is this important to the survival of the cell? The organism? The environment?

So learn to see how the concepts you are learning fit into the general scheme of things... and suddenly, you'll find that biology actually makes sense! 

Now it's your turn: What do you think? Does biology really make sense? Why or why not?

By Marc Mikhael, Ph.D.
The Apprentice's Compass - Navigate University!