 • When it comes to studying and how to approach it, everyone is different. A lot of computer certifications cover a wide range of subjects or topics. Usually, there will be some areas that you may be strong in, or have an interest in, and there will be other areas that you just won’t want to go near. While some people like to begin with the easier subjects to get themselves into the ‘groove’, and then move onto the harder material, other like to begin with tackling the subject they least prefer (a bit like eating the vegetables first so you can enjoy the rest of the meal). Definitely avoid putting off the difficult material, whatever way you approach it. You’ll have to deal with it at some point, and the satisfaction you’ll get by dealing with it sooner rather than later will ‘feed’ you with motivation for the other subjects later on. Try to end with your favorite material – or at least allow yourself to look at it from time to time throughout your study time as a sort of reward for doing the harder material, and to keep your interest up.
• Much research has been done into studying techniques and memory retention, and the general consensus is that studying in short sessions repeated often has much more benefit than trying to study in one long session. It is very difficult to keep the concentration going for long periods of time, and long sessions like that tend to cause fatigue, stress, and distractions. It is not good conditions for effective studying.
• Set goals for your studying time, but don’t make them too large or too vague. For instance, if you’re studying a particular computer certification, perhaps break each studying section into corresponding  objectives in the exam outline. If you set too high studying goals, you may be setting yourself up for failure and any further studying sessions might be affected because of that failure. If you set your goals smaller, it means you have a higher chance of making them, and the sense of satisfaction and enthusiasm you’ll get from reaching each goal is food in itself for the next goal you go for. If you reach your goal for each study session, you can always do more, but it’s harder to make up for previous sessions if you set your goals to high. You may also set the goal at the start of each study session, not some time in advance. If you do it, you’ll have a better ‘feel’ for how you’re mentally prepared on the day to deal with whatever goal you set yourself.
• It is advised to take regular breaks, but don't go far, don't go near other people and don’t start any other projects. You above all people will know what distracts you, so be sure you’re not tempted by it during your breaks. During your breaks try to get yourself motivated for the next study period.
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