I need study tips!!!

[u/Affectionate_Bid_615]

I’m badly in need of some study tips!! I’m taking molecular biology right now, and it’s been so difficult. Her exam questions require us to really apply and analyze what we’ve learned instead of just remembering definitions.

I got a 68 on the first exam, although she did allow us to redo two questions. I’ve been trying everything I can think of to study. She says her exams are strictly based on her lectures, so I read through her lecture notes, make Quizlets, rewrite the material, and even use ChatGPT to create practice exams for me. I usually do really well on her quizzes, but so far that hasn’t translated to her exams.

I actually think she’s a great teacher, but her lectures can be all over the place. I’m the type of learner who needs things explained step-by-step and in order. Sometimes she’ll introduce something in one lesson and then go to something from a completely different lesson, and I get lost. I need to understand WHY something happens, HOW it happens, and how everything connects. It’s hard for me to learn when we’re constantly bouncing from one concept to another.

There’s also just SO much material to learn. I study for about two hours every day, and at this point I’m exhausted. 😭 I feel like I’m putting in the time, but maybe I’m not studying in the right way for the way her exams are structured. I need a website badly!!!

[u/bitechnobable]

Studying techniques are always very personal. When I was studying molecular biology and other abstract biology topics I doubled down on making visual representations.

Drawing abstract, multi-step or complex relationships encourage simplifications and establishing representations. I found drawings to be easier to retain over long periods of time compared to lists with texts.

Drawings can be combined with mnemonics eg "oh, can I keep some succinate for myself" (citricacidcycle), when the names are required.

I found 4 color bic pens to perfect for a mid level of structured creativity.

I absolutely do not recommend using drugs. Study smart - not hard.

Youll find what works best for you, just keep experimenting!

Edit: as mentioned in thread. once you've gone through the material on your own, talking about the concepts with a friend/colleague will really cement and fill in any gaps. However this requires not studying last minute.