Prefer to write or type responses to past papers?

[Stringy]

Atm i'm writing all my responses, but I feel like i would be able to get through so many more questions (especially long response) if i just typed them out, is the learning still as effective when typing responses?

[Poet]

Hey Stringy,
I've thought about this as well, and I'm sure there's been discussion on it before but I can't find the thread. Oh well! I just looked it up, and some research will tell you that although typing may be faster or more convenient, studies say that writing out your notes and answers will be much more effective for consolidation. So if you're doing homework you feel you just need to get done quickly, the best course of action would be to type it out. However, if you wanted to study and remember what you're doing, give yourself the best chance at consolidating the information you want to, the best course of action is to pick up a pen and go old-school.

edit: here's a link to a blog post, which in turn refers to a study done. If you want to delve more in depth, here's a good starting point!

[Bri MT]

The main problem with typing responses is that you won't be typing in exams. Handwriting responses helps you figure out your exam timing and build up strength and speed for the exams.

That being said, when I was practicing biology questions (on their own, not as an exam) I would do this on the computer as I got through much more then that I otherwise would have so the pros ouweighed the cons.

I'd suggest that you at least handwrite when you are practing a full exam and focus on handwriting in the lead up to exams. Until then, the best choice will probably depend on the specific circumstances at the time