You may find yourself at the point where your schoolwork is becoming more difficult, and you're being asked to think in ways you have never thought before. Middle school is the period in life that marks your passage into the adult world of practical knowledge, reasoning, and career study. It is important you find an effective method of learning and reviewing information so you truly understand it. Every person learns differently and needs to study differently to understand what is being taught. Below are some tips for studying.

• Create an appropriate study environment - You do not necessarily need to study at a desk, but you should find a space that is free from distractions and has enough room for you to spread out papers and books. Your study space should also have good lighting and comfortable seating.

• Develop a positive attitude - Be calm and patient with yourself as you review your material. Beating yourself up will do no good. Try to open your mind as much as possible by putting other things aside and getting rid of frustration.

• Pay attention and take good notes in class - Class time is when most learning should take place. You will struggle learning if you have to teach yourself everything at home because you were not paying attention in class. It is also important to find a method of notetaking that works for you. Common notetaking methods include: Cornell Method, Outlining Method, Charting Method, Mapping Method, and Sentence Method.

• Develop effective memorization methods - Although memorizing something doesn't necessarily mean you understand what you are learning, there are many things in school that you will need to memorize. Try to make lists, flashcards or use acronyms to memorize different material.

• Focus on the areas that are the most difficult - You can study for hours and hours, but it will not make a difference if you are not studying the material that needs to be studied. If you already understand something, do not waste your time studying it. Instead, focus on the material that you don't understand, even if is frustrating because you don't understand it.

• Work with others - Although distractions are not helpful when studying, it can be helpful to study with other people if you are all focused on studying. Studying with other people will allow you to ask questions about material you don't understand, and it will help you learn material because you will be talking about it. In addition, do not be afraid to ask other people for help. No one understands everything, and everyone needs help at some point!

• Set goals - Setting goals helps you feel like you accomplished something when you are studying. When you feel like you accomplished what you wanted you will be more motivated to continue studying.

• Get organized- It is difficult to learn and to study if you do not know what you need to study and where you put your materials to study. Use an agenda to keep track of your assignments, and find a system to keep track of all of your class papers/books. Use a binder, folders or your bookbag to organize your classes.

To get a better understanding of what may help you learn you may also want to take a learning style inventory*. A learning style inventory will help you understand whether you are a visual learner, an auditory learner, or a hands-on learner. Knowing how you learn will help you choose study methods that will be the most effective for you.

*You must create an account to take the learning style inventory.