Confidence or Overconfidence?

We have all been there; the moments before a test, sitting anxiously at a desk that's too small, re-racking your brain for all the information you can possibly remember from studying last night. You know it well. Or do you just think you do?

A recent study by Professor Nate Kornell of Williams College has analyzed the ways in which students study, and their respective effectiveness. He claims that students who feel they are prepared for an exam or assessment, however feel they do poorly, is an example of being overconfident. While we always seek to have faith in our knowledge and abilities, these virtues are not always enough to get the grade. Professor Kornell's studies have arrived at the conclusion that success lays in testing yourself before the teacher does.

Certain aspects of his research has also shown that certain study habits are more effective than others. He argues that as opposed to spending one block of time studying in one given location, it is more valuable to study a few times during the week at a variety of places. Also, he promotes the idea of truly dedicating yourself to your studies to learn, as opposed to cramming the night before. Cramming can lead to a misguided sense of confidence rather than true knowledge of a subject.

As a first year student, this article has given me some direction to change my study habits, that may have worked in high school, but might not fly at UVa. So, my advice to you: take advantage of grounds, study in a multitude of places, and most important of all, study often, but keep a solid balance. (I personally recommend Alderman).

http://www.cavalierdaily.com/2010/09/09/scientists-research-studying/