Update: This article was last updated on 19th January 2024 to reflect the accuracy and up-to-date information on the page.
Are you a student? Do you struggle with inconsistent scheduling and irregularity? Is it affecting your academic performance? Effective study habits can help you optimize your learning capacity to be academically excellent. We’ll talk about several study techniques in this blog that can help you succeed academically.
1. Create a Study Schedule:
This may sound cliche, but this is the most effective habit. A pragmatic study schedule can help you manage time effectively and ensure that you allocate enough time for studying each subject. You can either create a weekly or monthly schedule for each subject with proper time. Also, review your study schedule.
2. Using helpful study strategies
Most students attempt to memorize material via the rote learning approach. But other techniques can help you in understanding the subject and retaining the information for a longer time.
You can try following study techniques to produce better results
- Rewrite your notes
- Make outlines
- Use memory tricks
- Create flashcards
- Explain things in your own words
- Watch videos
- Make charts, tables, and diagrams wherever applicable
3. Find a Productive Study Environment
Study environments vary from student to student. Some students prefer complete silence, while others are more productive with music in the background. Whether you prefer a quiet library or a cozy corner of your home, choose a space where you can concentrate and avoid distractions.
4. Take Regular Breaks
It is essential to give your brain some time to rest. Take short breaks during long study sessions to relax your mind. You are free to get involved in any leisure pursuits that will relax you. It could be listening to music, dancing, painting, chatting with friends, etc.
5. Use Active Learning Techniques
According to Queens University, active learning includes activities that promote the analysis, synthesis, and evaluation of the course information, such as reading, writing, speaking, and problem-solving.
It has categorized Active Learning Techniques into the following categories:
- Question-and-answer technique
- One minute paper
- Brainstorming
- Think-Pair-Share
- Short cases/ scenarios
- Discussions
- In-class demonstrations
6. Organize your class materials
Instead of keeping one bulky binder or a backpack of loose paper, organize your notes and handouts into separate folders. This makes it easier to find what you need for each exam, keep your homework together, and prevent overwhelming clutter. Color coding can also help you keep different topics separate.
7. Practice Time Management:
Students have a lot on their plates between school and extracurricular activities like sports, music, clubs, socializing, part-time jobs, etc. They must strike a balance between all of that and make sure they excel in extracurricular activities and receive excellent grades. The only thing that will allow them to complete all of that without feeling under strain is their ability to manage their time well.
You can adhere to the following tips:
- Maintaining a calendar
- Prioritize work
- Allocate specific time for specific tasks
8. Utilize extra opportunities to study
For this, you have to be both alert and flexible. For instance, if a teacher offers an after-class study session or extra credit opportunity, try to fit it into your schedule. This not only gives you a stronger safety net in case you make a mistake in the future, but it also shows your initiative as a student.
9. Join a study group or partner.
Study groups come together before important exams, but some students have discovered the benefits of supporting each other throughout the entire school year. In these groups, you can share your notes, quiz each other, and, most importantly, keep each other accountable for attending sessions.
10. Exercise to release stress
Instead of letting stress and pressure overwhelm you while studying, find a way to release your frustration in a positive way. Doing physical activities like jogging or dancing can make you feel better by releasing natural mood-boosting chemicals called endorphins. And the best part? It doesn’t cost a thing.
11. Reward Yourself
Positive reinforcement is key to staying motivated. Celebrate your achievements, big or small, with something you enjoy. This reinforces good study habits and keeps you on track.
Simple Exam Day Tips:
- Sleep tight: Aim for a good night’s rest.
- Morning routine: Stick to your usual breakfast and study plan.
- Chill before the bell: Stop studying 30 minutes before the exam.
- No early worries: Avoid arriving too early to avoid anxiety.
- Calm your mind: Breathe deep if tension rises.
- Find your zone: Choose a comfortable seat with minimal distractions.
- Self-talk: Be your cheerleader, not your critic!
- Read twice, underline: Understand each question clearly.
- Skip and return: Tackle the easy questions first, come back to the tough ones later.
Remember: You got this! Stay calm, and focused, and trust your preparation.
Conclusion
You may use these strategies as a student to get the most out of your time and effort. In fact, if you experience difficulties and feel you are lagging behind, don’t be hesitant to ask for help from tutors, instructors, and fellow students.
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