A Comprehensive Guide to Effective Learning and Retention

This guide is designed to help you navigate the vast sea of information you'll encounter during your studies from an expert with nearly two decades of experience in securities education and exam preparation. Dive into the core elements that will enhance your learning experience and retention throughout your course study.

Creating an Optimal Learning Environment

Distraction-Free Zone

Ensure you have a quiet study area, free from distractions like your cell phone. Dedicated study periods of 1-2 hours will help you focus better. Remember, even background music can be distracting when tackling complex topics.

Setting Goals: Finding Your Motivation

Identify what drives you to study. When you have a personal interest or goal tied to the material, your brain engages more actively, enhancing focus and comprehension.

Strategic Learning Approach: Bite-Sized Learning

Bite-Sized Learning 

Use bite-sized learning methods to avoid overwhelming yourself by trying to digest entire chapters at once. Instead, tackle smaller sections and pause to reflect on your understanding. This incremental approach prevents information overload and aids retention.

Boosting Retention: Choose Your Strategy

Commit to at least two of the following techniques that align with your learning style. Implement them over 2-3 chapters to evaluate their effectiveness.

1. Flashcards: Use flashcards for repetition and focus on challenging topics. They are portable, allowing you to study anywhere, anytime. Start with a manageable number, gradually increasing as you memorize more.
2. Association: Take notes in your own words during lectures, focusing on "big picture" concepts before delving into details. Organize information to create relationships between concepts, aiding long-term memory retention.
3. Teach What You Learn:  Practice teaching the material to someone else (or even a pet!). This method reinforces recall and helps you understand how the information connects to other concepts. Standing up while teaching boosts blood flow and mental activity.
4. Blended Learning:  Utilize the support available from trainers through your online program. Engaging in discussions helps clarify complex concepts. Prepare specific questions to maximize your one-on-one time with trainers.
5. Audio/Visual Techniques 
   1. Draw a picture.  Visual aids activate multiple brain areas, enhancing recall.
   2. Create Venn diagrams to compare and contrast similar concepts, highlighting differences to reduce memorization load.

Self-Assessment: Quizzing Techniques

1. Open-Ended Questions: Challenge yourself with questions that test your understanding of the key differences between similar concepts.
2. Blank Page Method: Use a blank sheet to cover sections of your book, revealing only the headings, and try to recall the details from memory.
3. Reflect and Apply: Consider how the material applies to your current or future role, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application.

Avoid Repeat Testing

About the Author

Christina Vaughn
ExamFX Senior Manager, Education and Instruction

Christina brings nearly two decades of experience in securities education and exam preparation. She holds the ChFC® designation (Chartered Financial Consultant) and previously earned the Series 7 and Series 66 licenses. Before joining ExamFX, Christina worked at a large broker-dealer, where she supported new financial advisors with essential product knowledge to help build successful careers.

At ExamFX, Christina develops tailored instructional programs and manages the Support Team, ensuring students receive effective materials and tools powered by advanced learning technology. She also contributes to content development and webinar training, helping learners gain the confidence and knowledge needed to pass their exams.

Learn More About Christina