A laptop can be the right tool to help you study. The process of writing and editing tasks is made easier because you can type in your notes and reports/tasks. Your tasks can be managed and grouped properly. In addition, having internet access provides a way for you to get a variety of information that can help you understand various subjects. However, laptops can also distract you, both in class and at home, so it's important that you be aware of and monitor their use.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Using a Laptop in Class
Step 1. Follow the rules set by your teacher or school
Your teacher will usually explain the laptop usage policy clearly at the beginning of the semester or school year (or first meeting). Make sure you pay attention to the rules and follow them carefully.
- For example, you may not be allowed to open your laptop when class starts, or may only access certain programs and websites. You are also only allowed to bring a laptop on certain days.
- Sometimes, these rules are set by the school, and not by the teacher.
Tip:
If your teacher asks you to install a particular program for your subject/class, install it before class if possible.
Step 2. Type the notes in your own words
When listening to the teacher in class, try not to type exactly what your teacher or lecturer explains. Listen carefully to their explanations or sayings, then jot down important words and concepts in your notes. Don't worry if you don't write in full sentences. Also, don't forget to take notes on the readings or additional supplementary material your teacher refers to during the lesson.
You can also type in existing questions. While studying, try to find answers to these questions from notes or textbooks
Step 3. Close or remove programs that can distract you
While they can be powerful learning tools, laptops have the potential to distract you during class. Before class starts, close messaging apps and games, and turn off social media notifications. Also, don't open websites or apps that aren't related to class material or lessons.
- Even though closing notifications only takes a second or two, you can still miss important things that your teacher explains.
- You can also turn on airplane mode to disable internet connection during class.
Step 4. Use a productivity program to keep you disciplined during class
If you're having trouble controlling yourself, or don't know how to turn off notifications without deleting the app, look for extensions or apps that can be set to block certain websites or apps. There are various types of productivity programs available for you to modify according to your needs.
For example, you can install extensions that can block access to certain sites during school hours or while you study in a web browser. You can also use add-ons that limit the duration of use of these sites during the day
Step 5. Think of your classmates
Your laptop can not only distract you during class, but also make it difficult for those around you to concentrate. During class, don't listen to music, watch videos, play games, or view photos that might distract or offend others.
Try sitting in the back row if most of the students in your class don't use laptops. That way, anyone who is easily distracted can sit in the front row and not see your laptop screen
Step 6. Keep your laptop at home if it is not needed for the subject or class you are taking
If you've tried a number of things to increase productivity, but are still easily distracted by your laptop in class (or don't notice a significant change or efficiency in your productivity despite using a laptop), try leaving your laptop at home. That way, you won't be tempted to check your Instagram account during class.
This step also helps protect your laptop from damage when you carry it in your bag or use it in class
Method 2 of 2: Working Outside the Class
Step 1. Do an internet search to learn more about the material you are studying
One of the advantages of using a laptop for studying is that you can access the internet to learn more about the subject or material being studied. However, make sure you only use trusted sources to get the information you need.
- For example, you can use scientific search engines like Google Scholar, LexisNexis, or JSTOR. The machines have checked the available sources to ensure their credibility and authorization.
- Usually you can rely on websites with.gov domains because these sites are run by government institutions. Most sites with.edu domains are also credible because they are uploaded and maintained by schools or educational institutions. However, sometimes students may also upload submissions to these sites so make sure you evaluate the source of the information critically.
- Sources from credible institutions such as Halodoc or Alodokter are also quite well-known. However, avoid sites or sources with a clear bias, such as People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) because the information presented may have changed according to the agenda.
Step 2. Rewrite your notes and save them in a managed file
Regardless of whether you typed your notes in class or wrote them down manually, there's a good chance that you jotted down your notes so that your notes appear cluttered or incomplete. After school, take the time to retype your notes into a word processing program. Use complete sentences and good grammar, and read the notes as you study for quizzes and exams.
- Keep notes in separate folders for each subject. For example, you can create one folder for English subjects, one folder for history lessons, and one folder for biology. You can even create subfolders for each chapter if you want.
- If there is information on the notes that you feel doesn't make sense, focus on that information or material while studying.
Tip:
When typing, your study notes will be protected from the risk of being lost if at any time you bring the wrong notebook or binder.
Step 3. Type your assignment for easy reading
Today, teachers often ask students to type in assignments or research articles before they are given. Although it's not required, typing your assignment will be very helpful because your writing becomes easier to read. In fact, you can do your homework faster so there's more free time for you to enjoy!
Typing assignments also helps you in the editing process because you can easily make changes, without having to write your assignment from scratch
Step 4. Download the study aid media suggested by your teacher
Your teacher or professor may use a program that allows you to view or listen to previous lectures or classes, study a topic or material further, ask questions, try practice quizzes, and so on. If so, take advantage of the program!
You can also download the desired application to study one material in more depth. For example, if you are studying English, you can download apps like HiNative or Ruang Guru to help with the learning process
Step 5. Call your teacher, lecturer, or classmate if you need help
If there's material or information in your textbook or notes that you don't understand, or a topic you'd like to know more about, try emailing your teacher or lecturer. You can also ask them their preferred medium of communication (eg intraschool messaging apps).
