Test preparation is analogous to the process of digestion. The two processes go through the same three phases, namely, ingestion (input), absorption (content comprehension and memorization) and egestion (output).
In this blog and the two that that will follow, I will go through the three phases of the efficient study routine system as it relates to test preparation. In this blog I will focus on ingestion – how best to encode new subject matter.
The first goal in test preparation is to effectively ‘receive’ the content knowledge that is being delivered. It is also important that when one is first exposed to this new information that a suitable method is used to record it for future reference. This encoding and recording process is what is referred to as the ingestion phase of the test preparation process.
Because we differ as individuals, instead of giving hard and fast rules, I prefer to focus on specific principles that can be applied to all students. The most important thing that one can do when exposed to new content is to ensure that one is in a heightened state of attentiveness. Simply put, when learning something new, ensure that you are making every effort to pay attention to what the teacher is trying to communicate. This can be tricky as you try to balance both recording (taking notes) and listening to what the teacher is saying. By trial and error you will find what works best for you. Some students are able to effectively toggle between note taking and following the teachers trend of thought. Others have to be more strategic and focus on what the teacher is saying while refraining from writing. Once the teacher has finished explaining the concept, these students (with the teacher’s permission) may then take a picture of what has been written on the board. Others (again with the teachers permission) may find it beneficial to make an audio recording of the lesson.
The point is at the end of the lesson you must both have a thorough understanding of what was delivered and a useful record of what was taught in the class.
Now there will be moments in a lesson where you just simply do not understand what the teacher is trying to communicate. It is up to you to ask the teacher to go over the content so that you can have an opportunity to understand it. Understanding what is taught in class, within the class period saves you a lot of time. This enables you to focus your test preparation sessions on review instead of trying to learn content. You will find that if you consciously make an effort to heighten your attention and not allow yourself to become distracted, incidents of lack of understanding in the classroom will be significantly reduced.
So putting it all together. To ensure that you efficiently and effectively ‘ingest’ new material:
- Pay attention
- Experiment with techniques for recording notes that don’t jeopardize understanding (stick to what works best for you)
- Ask questions when you don’t understand something
Following these three guidelines will set you up nicely for the second phase of test preparation – absorption. This involves not only getting a thorough understanding of the material, but also putting it to memory.
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