The Career Academy10/10/2017

Know your learning style

People learn in different ways, and preferences are real. The helpful bit is not putting myself in a box. In practice, mixing methods like testing myself, spacing my revision, and practising the skill tends to work best for everyone. This guide helps me spot what I prefer, then build a simple plan that actually sticks.

A quick self check Methods that work for most topics Weekly study plans

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My 5 minute learning preference self check

This is not a label for life. It is just a quick way to notice what helps me start and stay focused.

Simple rule I follow: I start with what feels easiest, then I use study methods that work well for most people, like testing myself and spaced revision.

Learning preferences, without the myth

I can prefer one style, but I do not rely on it alone. A mix usually wins.

  • If I like visuals, I still test myself with questions.
  • If I like reading, I still practise the skill or explain it out loud.
  • If I like doing, I still keep short notes so I can revise later.
Good to know: The biggest improvement usually comes from practising and testing myself, not just rereading.

What I do when a topic is not going in

  1. Reduce the size: I pick one small part, not the full chapter.
  2. Change the method: read for 5 minutes, then test myself for 5 minutes.
  3. Use a worked example: I copy one, then do one on my own.
  4. Ask for help: I message my tutor with one clear question.
  5. Come back later: I schedule a second attempt in 2 days.

Study methods that work for most online students

Pick two methods and use them together. That is usually enough.

1) Active recall

I test myself instead of only reading. Questions force my brain to work.

Quick ways I test myself: • Write 5 questions from the lesson, then answer them without looking • Cover my notes and explain the topic out loud in 60 seconds • Do 3 practice tasks, then check what I missed
Good to know: Testing myself is often more effective than rereading or highlighting.

2) Spaced revision

I come back to the topic over time, in short sessions, instead of one long push.

A simple spacing plan: Day 1: learn and test myself Day 3: short review and test myself again Day 7: quick recap and one practice task Day 14: final check, focus on weak spots
Tip: I keep review sessions short. The goal is consistency, not perfection.

3) Interleaving

I mix two small topics in one session. It can feel harder, but it helps learning stick.

Example session: 10 minutes: Topic A summary and 3 questions 10 minutes: Topic B worked example 10 minutes: Topic A practice task
Tip: If I feel a bit uncomfortable, that can be a sign I am learning, not failing.

4) Make it easier to start

I remove friction so starting does not feel like a big event.

  • Same time, same place if possible.
  • Phone out of reach for 20 minutes.
  • Timer for 10 minutes if I feel resistance.
  • One clear task only.
Tip: Motivation often shows up after I start, not before.
Free tool idea for active recall

If flashcards help, I can turn notes into questions and practise them in short bursts.

Suggestion: Try a simple flashcard tool like Quizlet, or create a notes file of questions and answers.

Weekly plans I can actually stick to

Pick one. I can always adjust next week.

Option 1: Daily mini sessions

  • 15 to 25 minutes per day.
  • One topic only.
  • End with 3 questions to test myself.
  • Mix two topics once per week for variety.

Option 2: Three focused sessions

  • Three days per week.
  • 35 to 50 minutes per session.
  • Start with a quick recap, then practise.
  • Book a short review 2 days later.

Option 3: Weekend catch up

  • One longer session, plus one short review midweek.
  • Use a timer and breaks to avoid burnout.
  • Focus on practise tasks, not perfect notes.
  • Mix topics in the last 15 minutes.
If I struggle with motivation: I use the tips in Tips to beat procrastination.

Quick study session script

This keeps me moving when I feel overwhelmed.

1) Open the lesson and pick one small task 2) 10 minutes: read or watch 3) 10 minutes: test myself with questions 4) 10 minutes: practise one task 5) Write one note: what I will do next session
Tip: Finishing a small session is better than planning a perfect one.

How I apply this to job goals

If I am studying for work, I keep proof of what I can do. It helps with CVs and interviews.

  • I screenshot completed tasks or results where appropriate.
  • I write 3 proof bullets I can use on my CV.
  • I add skills to my LinkedIn profile as I go.
CV tips LinkedIn tips

My notes for this week

This box is editable. I can paste my course goals and plan my sessions here.

This week I will: • Study on: (days) • Session length: (minutes) • Topics: (list) My active recall questions: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) What I will ask my tutor if I get stuck:

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This article is general study guidance. If you need learning support, please reach out to your tutor or Course Advisor.

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