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Six evidence-based studying strategies for dental students

BDJ Student volume 30, pages 16–17 (2023)Cite this article

This is perhaps the most important strategy that leads to long-term retention of information. It simply translates to 'testing yourself without any help' at an appropriate level of complexity. Relying on notes or other resources acts as a crutch, meaning that you may not be aware of what you do not know.

Examples of retrieval practice methods include flashcards, ready-made tests, group study, closed-book practice and mind-maps. It should be noted that this form of active recall practice is an additional step after initial note or flashcard-making. Careful planning of learning sessions is therefore essential, which can be achieved with an application like Notion.3

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References

  1. Putnam A L, Sungkhasettee V W, Roediger H L. Optimising Learning in College: Tips From Cognitive Psychology. Perspect Psychol Sci 2016; 11: 652-660.

  2. The Learning Scientists. Six Strategies for Effective Learning. The Learning Scientists. Available from: https://www.learningscientists.org/blog/2016/8/18-1 (accessed August 2023).

  3. Notion. Available from: https://www.notion.so/desktop (accessed August 2023).

  4. Anki. Available from: https://apps.ankiweb.net (accessed August 2023).

  5. Morehead K. Note-taking habits of 21st Century college students: implications for student learning, memory, and achievement. Memory. 2019;27(6):14.

  6. Lerchenfeldt S, Nyland R. Learning Technique Utility and Preferences Among Second-Year Medical Students: A Pilot Study of General and Pre-Exam Study Habits. Med Ed Publish 2016; 5.

  7. Yeager D S, Dweck C S. Mindsets That Promote Resilience: When Students Believe That Personal Characteristics Can Be Developed. Educational Psychologist 2012; 47: 302-314.

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Acknowledgment

Thank you to Dr Mark Jellicoe and Dr Manu Raj Mathur for their thoughtful feedback and comments on the drafts of this article, which helped in shaping the content.

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  1. University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom

    Daniel Ciuperca

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  1. Daniel Ciuperca
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Correspondence to Daniel Ciuperca.

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Ciuperca, D. Six evidence-based studying strategies for dental students. BDJ Student 30, 16–17 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41406-023-0986-y

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