Study habits of undergraduate medical students

Background: Academic performance of medical students largely depends on their study habits. Students adopt different modalities of learning. Teachers need to know what is the current pattern of learning so as to ensure an effective and useful teaching learning environment. The aim of the present study was to understand the various learning methods adopted by undergraduate medical students in the city of Mumbai. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study amongst 111 undergraduate medical students. Google form was sent to students of MBBS phase 1, 2, 3 and 4 for voluntary anonymous participation. The questionnaire was validated by a faculty trained in medical education technology. The questionnaire elicited information on study hours, method used for studying, regularity of studying and time management skills. Results: A total of 111 students participated in the study. 17.1% of students responded that they studied only when examinations were around. Students studied from standard textbooks (80%), 60% made notes, 76% watched video lectures, 39% listened to audio lectures and 33% referred to question banks and read only relevant topics. To assess their own understanding, 48% practiced MCQs, 46% solved previous papers and 49% taught their friends. When a concept was not understood, only 30% discussed it with their teachers. 14% students had the habit of reading the topic after attending lectures. 33% had a study time table. Conclusions: Students need to familiarize themselves with the various study techniques, understand their own learning preferences and adopt the proven scientific techniques of studying and time management skills.