Study Tips

Giulia Morán Gurrieri

Studying effectively has to do with how well you manage your hours, not how many you do. With a few smart techniques, you can get more done in less time. In this article, we’ll explore some psychology-based study methods, tips often used by top-performing students, and a fun quiz to help you find your personal learning style.

Psychology-Backed Study Tips: Science Meets Strategy

Psychology has a lot to say about effective learning, and these science-based techniques can help you get the most out of your study sessions.

  1. Active Recall and Spaced Repetition
  • Active Recall: Instead of just rereading notes, try quizzing yourself on the material. Testing yourself after studying each topic pushes your brain to actually recall the information, which has been shown to help you remember it better.
  • Spaced Repetition: Review the material in stages over a few days rather than cramming. Review a topic the day you learn it, then two days later, and again a week later. This helps transfer information from your short-term memory to long-term memory, making it easier to recall during exams.
  1. The Pomodoro Technique
  • Set a timer for 25 minutes and study with no distractions, then take a 5-minute break. Every four “Pomodoros” (or study sessions), take a longer break (15-30 minutes). This helps prevent burnout and keeps your mind sharp.
  1.  Visualization and Mind Mapping
  • For topics with lots of information, create mind maps or draw visuals that connect concepts. This is especially helpful in subjects like history and biology, where seeing connections can help make sense of complex ideas.
  1. Manage Stress for Better Focus
  • If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try practicing deep breathing or other stress-relief techniques like quick walks or stretching. Stress can actually block your memory, so taking time to stay calm can help you study better and faster.
  • Why Does Stress Block Your Memory: Stress blocks memory because it releases hormones that disrupt the brain’s memory center. This makes it harder to focus, and remember information, especially during high-pressure moments. Long-term stress can even shrink parts of the brain tied to memory, leading to lasting memory problems.

Study Strategies from Top Students: What Works at the Ivy League

  • Many students at top colleges have refined their study techniques to balance their busy schedules while still doing well academically. Here are some strategies that can be helpful.
  1. Teach the Material to Someone Else.
  • This is called the Feynman Technique. Try explaining a concept to a friend or even just out loud to yourself. Teaching also shows you where there are gaps in your understanding.
  1. Prioritize Harder Subjects First.
  • When you’re freshest, tackle the subjects you find hardest first, rather than leaving them for later in the day when you’re tired.
  1. Review Summaries Daily.
  • At the end of each day, write a quick summary of the key points from what you’ve studied. This daily review keeps important concepts fresh in your mind without feeling like you’re cramming.
  1. Group Study, but Smartly.
  • Studying with friends can be helpful if you stay focused. Instead of just reading together, try quizzing each other, explaining concepts, or going over past quizzes and practice problems.

Find Your Learning Style: What Works Best for You?

  • Everyone has a different way of studying that works best for them. Use this mini-quiz to help figure out your learning style, and try some specific techniques that might match your preferences.

Mini-Quiz: What’s Your Study Style?

When you learn something new, do you:

    1. Prefer reading or writing it out? (Visual/Verbal Learner)
    2. Like talking about it with someone? (Auditory/Social Learner)
    3. Learn better by doing hands-on activities? (Kinesthetic Learner)

    How do you feel about group study?

    1. It distracts me and I’d rather study alone. (Independent Learner)
    2. It helps to discuss ideas with friends. (Social Learner)
    3. I like a mix; sometimes alone, sometimes with friends. (Balanced Learner)

    When preparing for an exam, you:

      1. Make detailed notes and study by reviewing them. (Text-Based Learner)
      2. Use flashcards or quizzes to test yourself. (Visual/Kinesthetic Learner)
      3. Talk through the topics with someone else. (Auditory Learner)

      Results and Study Tips

      • Mostly A’s: You’re likely an independent, text-based learner. Try solo study sessions with active recall, taking detailed notes, and setting up a distraction-free environment.
      • Mostly B’s: You’re a social learner, which means studying with others and discussing ideas works best for you. Form a study group and try explaining concepts to each other.
      • Mostly C’s: You’re a kinesthetic learner. Use activities like flashcards, online quizzes, and study while walking around or using a whiteboard to keep active.

      Building Your Study Routine

      Here’s a sample study routine you can customize based on what you learned about your study style. 

      – 17:30 – 17:55: Study a topic you find difficult (25-minute Pomodoro session)

      – 17:55 – 18:00: 5-minute break

      – 18:00 – 18:30: Review using active recall or mind mapping (another Pomodoro)

      – 18:30 – 18:55: Group study session or self-quizzing using flashcards

      – 18:55 – 19:00: 5-min break

      – 19:00 – 19:30: Summarize what you learned, review key points, then take a well-deserved break!

      You can adapt this schedule to whatever suits you best!

      Final Tips for Success

      Building study habits takes time, so be patient and try different methods until you find what works for you. Start by trying one or two techniques from this article, and don’t forget to give yourself credit for each step you take toward effective studying. 

      Whether you’re preparing for finals, aiming for a college scholarship, or just trying to keep up with classwork, a well-chosen study technique can make all the difference. Use the quiz, test some of the Ivy League techniques, and remember: effective studying isn’t about the number of hours, but how you use them.

      Bibliography:

      “10 Tips on How to Study Effectively.” Victoria University, Australia, www.vu.edu.au/about-vu/news-events/study-space/10-tips-on-how-to-study-effectively. Accessed 13 Nov. 2024.

      Flavin, Brianna. “Different Types of Learners: What College Students Should Know.” Rasmussen University, 6 May 2019, www.rasmussen.edu/student-experience/college-life/most-common-types-of-learners/.

      “Six Research-Tested Ways to Study Better.” American Psychological Association, American Psychological Association, www.apa.org/ed/precollege/psychology-teacher-network/introductory-psychology/study-better. Accessed 13 Nov. 2024.