There are many ways to study smarter and actually make it into your brain, but not all of them work for everyone. In this article I’m going to show you the best 5 ways to study smarter.
1. Study Breaks
It can be easy to get caught up in the cycle of studying and not take breaks, but it’s important to schedule study breaks into your day. Breaks allow you to recharge and come back to your work with fresh eyes.
There are a few different ways you can take a break while still getting some studying done. One option is to set a timer for 25 minutes and work on one task until the timer goes off. Then, take a five-minute break before starting the next task.
Another way to break up your studying is to alternate between two different subjects. This can help you avoid feeling overwhelmed by one particular subject. For example, you could study math for 30 minutes and then switch to English for 30 minutes.
Whatever method you choose, make sure you’re taking some time for yourself every few hours. Step away from your desk, take a walk, or read something unrelated to your studies. These small breaks will make a big difference in your focus and productivity levels.
2. Good Habits
Here are some good habits to develop for smarter studying:
Get organized
Having a good system for keeping track of your materials and assignments can make a big difference in how well you do in school. Take some time to find a system that works for you, whether it’s using a physical planner or keeping everything electronically on your computer or phone.
Develop a routine
Studying at the same time each day can help you to focus and stay on track. If possible, find a quiet place where you can study smarter without distractions. And be sure to take breaks! Getting up and moving around every once in awhile will help you stay fresh and focused.
Take good notes
When you’re in class, pay attention and take notes on what the teacher says – even if you think you’ll remember it later. Having your own notes can be helpful when you’re reviewing material later on. And don’t be afraid to ask questions if you’re confused about something; chances are, other students are wondering the same thing.
Do your homework
This may seem like an obvious one, but it’ s important to make sure you’re doing your homework and turning it in on time. Not only will this help you keep up with the material, but it will also show your teacher that you’re engaged in the class.
Review regularly
One of the best ways to improve your grades is to review material on a regular basis, rather than just trying to cram everything in right before a test. This will help you retain information better and be better prepared when it comes time to take exams.
3. The Importance of a Good Mood
A good mood is essential for optimal learning. When we are in a good mood, we are more likely to be engaged and motivated to learn. We are also more likely to retain information and have better focus.
There are a few different ways to ensure you’re in a good mood when you’re ready to learn. First, make sure you get enough sleep the night before. A rested mind is a better learning tool than one that is exhausted. Second, eat healthy foods that will give you sustained energy throughout the day. A nutritious diet will help your body and mind function at their best.
Finally, take some time to relax and destress before starting your studies. This can mean taking a few deep breaths, going for a walk, or listening to calming music. When you’re feeling calm and relaxed, you’ll be in a much better frame of mind to learn effectively.
4. Make Use of Technology
In the 21st century, there’s no excuse for not using technology to aid your studies. There are countless apps, programs, and websites that can help you learn more effectively. Some of our favorites include Quizlet, which lets you create digital flashcards and quizzes to study with; Evernote, a powerful tool for taking notes and organizing information; and Khan Academy, a comprehensive resource for learning pretty much anything.
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. With a little bit of searching, you can find an abundance of resources that can help you learn more effectively. So take advantage of all the amazing technology at your fingertips—it can make a world of difference in your academic success!
5. What to Avoid
As you head back to school, you may be looking for ways to avoid falling behind or getting overwhelmed. Unfortunately, there are a few things that can actually make studying harder and less effective. Here are a few things to avoid if you want to study smarter and actually learn:
Cramming
Cramming is often seen as a necessary evil, but it’s actually one of the worst things you can do when trying to learn something new. When you cram, you’re more likely to forget what you’ve learned and have a harder time understanding concepts. Instead of cramming, try spreading out your studying over time so that information has time to sink in.
Rote Memorization
Rote memorization is another common study method that isn’t particularly effective. While it may help you remember isolated facts in the short-term, it doesn’t do much to help you understand how those facts fit together or how to apply them in the real world. If rote memorization is your only study method, you’re likely to find yourself lost when it comes time to actually use what you’ve learned.
Multitasking
In today’s world, multitasking has become the norm. However, when it comes to learning, multitasking can actually be counterproductive. When you try to focus on too many things at once, your brain isn’ t able to effectively process information, and you’re likely to miss key details. Instead of multitasking, try focusing on one task at a time so that you can give your full attention to what you’re doing.
Distractions
Distractions are also common when it comes to studying, but they can make it harder for you to learn as well. If you find yourself getting distracted often, try studying in a quiet place where there are fewer things that can pull your attention away from what you’re trying to learn. You may also want to consider using apps or other tools to limit your access to distractions while you study smarter.