How To Study

How To Study

Successful correspondence or distance education study requires three essential things:

1. SET ASIDE TIME FOR STUDYING

First, set a goal for completing each course. We suggest 30 to 60 days maximim for each course. Since MBI Yeshiva courses do not require campus attendance, they should be completed faster than the equivalent 13 week course on a campus. When you receive the course work write on the outside the date you received it and the date you expect to send it back. Put it in a conspicuous place, where you will not forget to see it.
Second, establish a time each day or each week to allow time exclusively devoted to course work. If possible, this should be exactly the same time of day and same day or days of the week.
Third, if you get sidetracked or begin to procrastinate, just begin again, as if starting for the first time. It may take you several or many starts to eventually form the habit of study.
Fourth, set aside regular intervals in your study to break for refreshment and necessities.

2. GET THE PROPER TOOLS FOR YOUR STUDY

Before you begin your study, collect all the items you think you might need: pencils, pens, paper, computer, dictionary and Bible, etc. Do not bother to prepare food or drink to bring to your study area. You need to use this excuse to take regular breaks.
Obtain and become familiar with the textbook before starting the examination. You may skim the information to get a general idea of the information.
Remember, your assigned Instructor may be a ready tool for help, so if you are unsure about a major question, be sure to e-mail him/her about it.

3. PROVIDE AN ATMOSPHERE FOR EFFECTIVE STUDY

Your mental attitude is most important. Look on your study like eating. It is mental and spiritual nourishment and there are various flavors and textures to enjoy as you take in knowledge. Savor it.
Ponder each question and answer in such a way as to seal them in your mind, thinking, "This is going to be necessary to know at some unknown time in the future, not just now."
Put away every distracting element around you. You may need to set aside an extra bedroom or part of one as your study center. If you have to, seal the door with weather stripping and put a "do not disturb" sign on the door. Inform your family of what you are doing, even before you begin and be sure they know how important this is to you. Let them know exactly what or when they may disturb you.
Make your study an adventure in discovery. As you study, write down those things that interest you, even if they are not something that is in the course work. After all, you are not studying just to get a grade, but rather to grow in the knowledge of the L-RD.

Last, remember that you are NOT alone. We are praying for you, and our Father in Heaven is seeing all your effort and will bless you for it.