Memory Retention When Studying

Many people find it hard to get the knowledge to sink in whilst studying. I was in the same boat when I was first studying for my CCNA back in 2000. I had to keep reading the same book over and over again.

One student posted asking for advice on the forum:

http://tinyurl.com/cq9tul

Here is what I learned.

1. We have different learning styles.

If you are reading over and over and over again and it isn't sinking in then STOP READING! The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results (Einstein said that).

It is possible to pass the CCNA without even reading the book you know. I am not suggesting you do but you could get by with practise exams, flash cards from the site and the cram guide (and of course lots of labs).

I tried to learn frame relay for a long time. I eventually gave up and did lots of labs from an old CCIE book. It then clicked for me. I went back to the theory and it all made sense.

2. Give yourself a break.

You are not stupid, you are just learning brand new stuff. It may have been a long time in fact since you picked up a book (a technical one at that).

3. Be consistent.

You must put in 2 hours per day for at least 6 weeks if you want to pass the exam. Many who passed the old style exam who are retaking it are shocked at how hard it has become!

Expect it to be hard, just do the work and it will pay off. I see so many people quit the site blaming work, children, no time blah blah. Why do you think Cisco engineers get paid 25% more than the Microsoft guys?

Stop complaining, dig in and get it done.

4. Get help.

You can ask for help on the forum. We are there to help and support you. If you want to have structure and a plan which will work for you 100% then join the free '60 Days to CCNA' programme via the www.howtonetwork.net home page.

I hope it helps.

Paul Browning