How to Study Biology: 5 Study Techniques to Master Biology

We continue our “How to study …” series with this biology study guide. Biology  is a fascinating subject but can often cause problems for students. If this is the case for you, then read on and discover the best techniques to improve your exam results. Other subjects available in this series: “How to Study Maths” and “How to Study History“.

Biology is the study of life and teaches us about ourselves and the natural world around us. A good starting point when studying biology is to admire the perfection of nature and the principles of life.

With this mindset, you’re ready to implement the study techniques outlined below.

How to Study Biology: Top 5 Study Techniques

1 Learn the Terminology

One of the hardest parts of studying biology is remembering the many different terms. If you want to understand what you are studying, then you need to familiarize yourself with all these terms first.  A good method for this is to try and break down complex words to identify their root.

It is highly recommended that whenever you encounter unfamiliar words while studying biology you should take note of them, find it’s definition and then take the time to understand its roots.

2 From the General to the Specific

To follow a process of effective learning of biology, you must master the general concepts before being able to tackle specific ones. For example, you need to understand what factors identify a mammal before starting the factors that identify primates.

In this sense, it is also advisable to study the processes thoroughly before advancing to the next level. To speed up the memorization of the different processes and their relationship, Mind Maps are an effective educational resource for students as they help organize information in a very easy and visual way.

 

3 Embrace the Laboratory

Put biology theory into practice by using the laboratory whenever possible to explore your curiosity. Once in the laboratory you can test your hypothesis and prove your theories. In terms of learning, the act of doing will stay with you a lot longer than the act of reading.

4 Use Drawings

Drawings can help you understand a concept and remember information that would be difficult to define in words.  You should get used to drawing diagrams such as the human heart as you can be asked to produce and label such a drawing in your biology exam.

5 Past Exam Questions

Practice sample answers to past exam questions; past papers which should be available from your teacher. Biology tests can vary widely so it is important to know how you will be evaluated to study accordingly. Are you going to have a multiple choice test or have essay questions on lab work? Leave nothing to chance. Practice, practice and practice!