Top 10 Strategies for Excelling in Vietnamese Literature Without Innate Talent

To excel in literature, start by clearing negative thoughts from your mind, such as lacking talent or interest. These thoughts hinder your progress. Instead, dedicate time to self-encouragement: “If others can learn, so can I.” Unlike subjects like Math or Physics, where regaining lost ground is challenging, literature only requires a bit of diligence to conquer.

Strive to improve your speed-reading skills with textbooks, reference books, newspapers, notebooks... Read them using keywords, phrases, and headings to swiftly navigate through the pages. While reading, underline keywords, jot down questions, make side notes in the margins of the book. This approach helps grasp the theme, key points, highlights, and language usage. Reading a variety of books enhances knowledge and hones creative thinking and deep reasoning abilities.

Preparing your lessons in advance will make it easier for you to absorb the knowledge when the teacher presents the material. While reference books may offer interesting ideas, relying too much on them can create dependence. Therefore, try to express your thoughts and perceptions in writing first, and then read reference books to supplement new ideas alongside those you've already developed. Using reference books is not a negative practice; the key is to use them selectively rather than becoming overly dependent.

If you find lectures overwhelming with numerous ideas, underline the key points emphasized by your teachers. Apply mind maps (draw symbolic models, create comparison charts vertically and horizontally to differentiate and emphasize the object's points for outlining). The main idea is at the center, and subpoints are the smaller branching trees. While literature is a subject focused on emotions, a highly emotional piece lacking substance may struggle to score high. Mind maps will guide your writing in the right direction.

While teachers deliver lectures in class, pay attention and avoid working on other tasks. Your attentive listening not only makes the lesson more engaging for the teachers but also helps you grasp the knowledge better. Don't let the boredom of literature lead you to neglect note-taking; scrambling to borrow notes during exams only leaves you unprepared and without substantial knowledge. Taking comprehensive and neat notes makes it easier for you to focus on learning and quickly memorize the material. Boldly expressing your opinions not only keeps you awake but also helps you retain valuable knowledge for a longer period.

Allocate time each evening to organize the necessary study materials for the next day, prepare homework in advance, and always maintain a relaxed and cheerful mood. Set goals for yourself and insist on following through; if you achieve your set targets, reward yourself, but if you fall short, impose a penalty. This practice helps cultivate discipline and self-control. Planning and adhering to a routine not only enhance your academic performance but also contribute to personal development.

The journey of studying literature is a gradual exploration; don't force yourself due to perceived obligations. Don't hesitate to express new ideas and your own opinions instead of worrying about conformity to textbooks. Occasionally, thinking outside the box can make your writing stand out and improve your language proficiency. Learning with a genuinely relaxed mindset makes studying literature surprisingly effortless. Moreover, you'll perceive the numerous beautiful aspects that literary values bring to your understanding.

Extra classes with numerous students can be challenging to focus on. The diversity of motivations among participants may lead to scattered thoughts. Attending many classes across various centers doesn't necessarily solidify your knowledge; some join the trend without genuine interest. Overcrowded classrooms and noise contribute to fatigue. The best approach is to proactively allocate dedicated time at home for serious study, practice writing with relevant exercises to enhance skills. Seek direct clarification from subject teachers for any uncertainties. This method is highly effective and gives you control over your study schedule.

After each classroom test, evaluate and correct your essay, identifying strengths and areas for improvement. Review the assignment and teacher's feedback to address errors. Maintain a tracking sheet for your work to extract personal learning experiences. Additionally, analyze high-scoring essays from peers to learn their word usage and compare it with your own writing.

Join literary forums and social networks to interact, converse, and discuss various literary and life topics. This experience will significantly contribute to expanding your knowledge base.