College Study Skills

Question 1

Which study technique involves testing yourself on material instead of simply re-reading it?

Accepted Answer

Active recall

Answer

Active recall means retrieving information from memory (e.g. with flashcards or practice questions), which strengthens retention far more than passive re-reading.

Question 2

The 'spacing effect' in learning refers to the finding that:

Accepted Answer

Studying a topic in short sessions spread over time improves retention more than one long session

Answer

The spacing effect shows that distributing study sessions over days or weeks leads to better long-term retention than massing all study into one session (cramming).

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of the Pomodoro Technique?

Accepted Answer

To break work into focused intervals separated by short breaks

Answer

The Pomodoro Technique uses timed intervals (typically 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break) to sustain concentration and avoid burnout.

Question 4

Which of the following is considered a passive study strategy with relatively low effectiveness for long-term retention?

Accepted Answer

Highlighting or underlining text

Answer

Highlighting and underlining give an illusion of learning but do little to strengthen memory because they don't require active engagement with the material.

Question 5

What does the term 'metacognition' mean in the context of studying?

Accepted Answer

Thinking about and monitoring your own learning process

Answer

Metacognition is awareness and understanding of your own thought processes, which allows students to evaluate what they know and don't know, and adjust their study strategies accordingly.

College Practice Test

College Practice Test

College Study Skills