- Set Goals and Priorities: Planning is key to successful self-studying, and setting goals and priorities is an essential part of this process. Before embarking on your self-studying journey, take some time to think about what you want to achieve and how you can get there. Ask yourself questions such as what subject you want to learn, what specific goals you have in mind, and how much time you can realistically commit to studying. For example, you might be interested in ADIT's module 1: Principles of International Taxation and aim to pass the ADIT exam or gain knowledge for career growth. Additionally, due to work and family commitments, you may have only 1 hour a day to commit to your self-study. By setting clear goals and priorities, you'll be able to stay motivated and focused, and make the most of your self-studying experience.
- Create a Schedule: Once you have set your goals and priorities, the next step is to create a study schedule. You should allocate time for studying each day or week, depending on your availability. Having a study schedule will help you stay on track and ensure that you are making progress towards your goals.
- Find a Suitable Study Space: Having a suitable study space is essential for effective self-studying. You should find a quiet and comfortable place where you can focus and avoid distractions. This could be a library, a coffee shop, or a quiet room in your home. You should also ensure that your study space is well-lit and has all the materials you need.
- Use Multiple Resources: To ensure a comprehensive understanding of the subject, it is crucial to utilize various resources while self-studying. These resources can include textbooks, online materials, videos, and podcasts. The MojiTax learning platform is an excellent example of a resource that provides students and scholars of international tax with various learning materials, including an Ebook, podcasts/presentations, and access to intergovernmental materials. By utilizing multiple resources, you can deepen your understanding of the subject matter and make your learning experience more engaging and fulfilling.
- Take Notes and Review Them Regularly: Taking notes is an essential part of self-studying. You should take notes as you study to help you remember important points and concepts. You can use a notebook, flashcards, or a note-taking app to take notes. It's also important to review your notes regularly to ensure that you understand the concepts and can apply them in practice.
- Practice and Test Yourself: Self-studying isn't just about absorbing information; it's also about putting what you learn into practice. To truly master a subject, you need to practice applying its concepts regularly and test yourself to assess your progress. This could involve solving problems, writing essays, or taking quizzes. Fortunately, the MojiTax learning platform provides students with ample opportunities to test their knowledge every step of the way, including quizzes and sample ADIT exam style questions. By practicing and testing yourself, you can reinforce your understanding of the subject and identify areas that require more attention.
- Stay Motivated: Self-studying can be a daunting task, and it's easy to lose motivation along the way. That's why it's important to find ways to keep yourself motivated throughout your learning journey. Some ways to do this might include setting up rewards for yourself when you achieve your goals, finding a study partner, or joining an online study group. For ADIT students, there are various options available, such as joining the ADIT LinkedIn network or one of the many WhatsApp study groups (You can join the MojiTax private study group). Staying motivated will help you remain focused and make progress towards your goals.
Self-studying is not just a means of acquiring knowledge, it is a skill that can help you in various aspects of life. With self-studying, you have the power to take control of your learning journey, explore topics that interest you, and develop a deeper understanding of complex subjects. By honing your self-studying skills, you can become a more independent, self-motivated, and successful learner. Whether you are looking to advance your career, pursue a new hobby, or simply expand your knowledge, mastering the skill of self-studying can be a powerful tool in achieving your goals.