The Outline Method by Corina

The Outline Method by Corina - January 2014 Scholarship Essay

Studying is a fairly new concept to me. Throughout my whole educational life, my form of studying consisted of reading a passage, asking the teacher a few follow-up questions, and the information “clicking” almost instantly. I soon realized, however, that this method was not foolproof in AP and Honors courses, and soon faced information overload. I started experimenting with “real” study techniques, and I found that the most effective method was the outline format.

In my sophomore year of high school, my World History teacher made it mandatory in her class that we copy her PowerPoint lectures word-for-word. By the end of each class, my peers had blocks of indecipherable paragraphs in their notebooks, while I had my carefully outlined notes. Each piece of information my teachers presented were broken down, categorized under different headings. All key words were highlighted and their definitions presented on the last page of notes. During the hours of studying I faced every night, I would precede each note with its question counterpart, Jeopardy-style. After reading through the notes, I would give my notebook to my parent or friend to quiz me; they would read each question in random order, and I would give each answer with an extra explanation as to why the answer is correct. This method made it possible for me to do a few hours of studying each night, and be fully prepared to ace the quiz or test the next day. There was nothing getting in between me and that A+.

To avoid the tediousness of studying, writing essays, or completing 52 math questions in one night, I conjointly adopted a rewards system. Anytime I finish one assignment in my agenda, I would reward myself with a 1-hour television break, a piece of candy, or a 30-minute nap. Not only did this system encourage me to do my work without procrastination (when faced with studying, cleaning the whole house, doing all the laundry, and checking my obsolete email account suddenly sounds way more important), but it also helps clear my head and transition smoothly into my next assignment.

By utilizing the note-taking/outline study technique and rewards system, I feel fully prepared for my upcoming freshman year of college. I am ready to tackle any all-night study sessions, three hour lectures, or final exams, and look forward the vast amount of information I have yet to learn.