It’s Sunday night, your Organic Chemistry exam is tomorrow morning and you don’t know the difference between an ester and an ether…
(Too niche? Sorry, I’m spilling my chemistry-based trauma from my undergraduate career. The chemistry minor was not worth it)
I mention this example because it is the perfect application for The Leitner System, which is best used for memorization and flashcard-type information
Gather your materials
Get 5 small boxes, about the size to fit 1 or 2 stacks of flashcards. You’ll be using these for a while, so try to make them sturdy
Label each box with either tape or marker with numbers 1 through 5
Collect some flashcards. However many you’ll need for the subject or topic(s) you’re hoping to master
If you don’t have any flashcards on hand, you can make some using lined paper or printer paper. Cut into squares big enough to fit the information you want to study
Lastly, gather your information and study materials. Use these to fill out your flashcards as needed
How The Leitner System Works
1. Make flashcards for the information you want to study. All new cards are placed into the first box (Box 1)
2. Review each flashcard. Each answer you get correct is moved up to the next box and each answer you get incorrect either moves backward or stays in the first box (Box 1)
3. Review each box according to its placement…
Box 1: Everyday
Box 2: Every other day
Box 3: Once a week
Box 4: Every other week
Box 5: Once a month
4. Ace your exam!
Related: 3 Tips for a Successful Study Session
And that’s about it! Give this a try and best of luck on your exams, you’re going to crush it <3