Feedback Focus

If I had to rank these three techniques (from most usefulness to least usefulness) it would be: Reading out loud, copy and delete, use a timer. I have used the technique, reading out loud since I was able to read. It has always helped me maintain my focus on what I am reading/studying. I still read out loud to my boy friend and cat! The copy and delete technique reminds me of when I would read books for classes and analyze each paragraph or chapter assigned for us to read. I found it helpful because I would pin-point the main aspects of the story and magnify it so that I would understand the overall meaning that is being portrayed. On the other hand, using a timer is my least favorite studying method. I hate the feeling of being timed! It makes me anxious and constantly check the timer when I should be focusing. I understand why people would use this technique by doing a chunk of work in intervals, however, this is not the most efficient way of focusing for me. After going through each technique I ended up not being surprised with my results. Throughout my academic career I have used these techniques and mastered the ones I am best at. Going through these options seemed normal to me and naturally the ones I am better at seemed more comfortable when focusing on these stories.
For reading out loud the biggest advantage is that you are using a different part of your brain when processing the information. Whenever you can use the multiple parts of your brain when focusing the more permeable the information will be in the long run. I think that reading out loud helps you take in  the information at hand and process it into your own understanding. The biggest disadvantage would be that you have limited time and space to use this technique. Whenever you would be doing your assignments or studying most people go to libraries, study rooms, or work on these things with a group. No matter what, no one likes when people are reading out loud while each person is working on their own work. Reading out loud is distracting for people around you! With this technique you have minimal opportunities for its use.
When copying and deleting the information that you are focusing on it also has an advantage of using different parts of your brain. Most times, for kinesthetic learners rewriting the information you are analyzing or studying can be extremely helpful. When I study I normally rewrite things or add notes to the side and find it useful for me in the long run. I think a huge disadvantage that acts as an anchor to me at least is that copying and deleting takes time. I view it as taking a fine tooth comb and analyzing the meaning of each concept or paragraph that is being overlooked.
Lastly, as for timing yourself the only advantage I see is that it gives you a structure or should I say timed agenda for each assignment at hand. It can keep you on track for each assignment and probably helps when you are trying to beat a deadline. As for the disadvantage, when I use this technique I get the same feeling you would get when you are being timed during an exam and you have ten more questions to finish with only three minutes left. That may seem a bit dramatic, but for me it is normal. Being timed is another distraction for me and I'm sure that is a common disadvantage students face when dealing with this technique.

Read Aloud cartoon 

Link to picture