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Learning or memorize, what is the path?

Hello, I am studying sociology at university, but rather than try to understand the texts I lose my self, I am unfocused and going very bad, especially trying to understand Hegel, Kant, McCormick theories, etc.. Does anyone recommend me a method to understand and remember these concepts at the time of examination? Much they appreciate your advice because I'm desperate ...tired...frustrated.

2 Answers

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  • 1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    Memorization is worse than worthless and is not education or knowledge at all.

    First, you need to get at least 8 hours of sleep every night. Your brain can't function properly without it.

    Second, when you're studying, take frequent breaks. Get up, play a song and dance to it; go for a walk around the block; get a snack.

    Third, study effectively. Don't just read, as though you're reading a novel. For each point you read, stop and think about it. If necessary, re-read it. Take notes on what it means or implies. THEN go on to the next poing.

    Every once in a while, make diagrams or concept maps of the key ideas, and which subordinate ideas relate to them and how.

    When you're not studying, try to apply the concepts to the world and your life.

    If you need help, find a tutor, or budy up with someone who seems to get it a bit better than you. Explaing to you will help them understand it better, and their explanations will help you.

    If you UNDERSTAND them, you'll remember them.

    If you memorize them, you won't understand (and so will mess up, and can't explain them), and you'll likely mis-remember anyway.

    Dunno McCormick, but Hegel and Kant are hard to understand. It's not YOU, it's not easy material.

  • Anonymous
    1 decade ago

    If you love the subject, you will absorb it automatically as you read it. So, don't study it it then sense of trying to 'learn' it, read the texts casually as you would a favourite novel or magazine, and the principles, theories, names, etc., will take-up strategic positions in your conscious mind.

    Source(s): Fifty years of studying.
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