Top 3 A+ Study Habits.
Chewing gum while studying? Teaching a stuffed animal what you’re learning? There are some pretty weird study habits out there, but which ones really work? As a student, it can be hard to find study strategies that yield real results. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all method, certain strategies are backed by research and consistently lead to improved performance. Here are the top three study habits proven to be effective for students at any level.
1. Active Recall
Reading does not equal learning. It might trick you into feeling like you’ve mastered the material, but no matter how many times you read—or even re-read—your notes or textbook, passive review will never lead to success. Active recall involves testing yourself on the material you’re learning and forcing your brain to be engaged with the important facts.
Why it Works:
Actively retrieving information from memory will allow you to strength neural connections and make it easier to recall information later. This strategy can be mentally taxing, but that effort to recall and synthesize information is the best way to deepen your learning. It also helps highlight what areas aren’t as familiar to you yet.
How to Apply It:
- Use flashcards to quiz yourself. Sites like NoteSight and Quizlet have features that make it easy to do so.
- Close your book after reading a section and summarize the key points from memory.
- Turn chapter headings into questions and answer them without peeking.
- “Blank Page Testing” – Start with a blank sheet of paper and write down everything you remember
- Practice expressing concepts in different formats, like writing, creating flowcharts, diagrams, or graphs
2. Embrace Spaced Repetition
Cramming might feel productive, but it’s an inefficient way to retain information long-term. Spaced repetition is a method where you revisit material at increasing intervals over time, which strengthens memory retention.
Why It Works:
This technique combats the “forgetting curve,” ensuring that knowledge is reviewed before it fades completely. It maximizes learning efficiency by focusing on weaker areas as needed.
How to Apply It:
- Use apps like Anki, which automate spaced repetition schedules.
- Break study sessions into shorter periods over days or weeks instead of one marathon session.
- Create a calendar to review older material while introducing new topics.
3. Study in Focused, Time-Blocked Sessions
Have you heard of the Pomodoro Method? It’s taken over social media—and for good reason. The Pomodoro Technique and other time-blocking methods can help students maintain focus and reduce burnout. This involves studying in short, concentrated bursts, followed by breaks.
Why It Works:
Research shows that our ability to focus diminishes over time. Short, structured sessions keep the brain engaged while reducing procrastination.
How to Apply It:
- Set a timer for 25 minutes of intense studying, followed by a 5-minute break.
- After four cycles, take a longer 15–30 minute break.
- Eliminate distractions during study blocks, and use the breaks to recharge with light activities.
Final Thoughts
Success in studying isn’t just about how much time you spend, but how effectively you use that time. By incorporating active recall, spaced repetition, and focused time-blocked sessions into your routine, you can achieve better results and retain knowledge longer. Try these strategies, track your progress, and adapt as needed to find your personal study groove.
And hey, we get it! Sometimes you don’t have the time to worry about using your best study habits when you’re cramming for an exam two hours before. But studying doesn’t have to be a horrible, time-consuming experience. Take advantage of the tools around you. In today’s world, plenty of apps and websites are there to make studying a whole lot easier. With NoteSight, students can generate transcripts, organized notes, and flashcards all by uploading audio files of a lecture or whatever material you’d like to learn from. Try it out!