Five Productive Study Techniques to Add to Your Routine
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There are three weeks remaining until the end of the semester, so here are five strategies to help students “lock in” for the final stretch, and still get 8 hours of sleep.
First, the retrieval practice is a study technique where one builds upon their understanding by completing multiple practice tests. Individuals can search for question sheets covering their desired topic, create flashcards, or even make their own tests. And, with the help of AI, students can generate a variety of helpful questions for different types of tests, such as essays or multiple-choice questions.
Other than practicing, students can also use the spaced practice method, which calls for students to study over an extended period of time instead of cramming the night before. They would review a small portion of the material one day, then revisit it the next day before consuming new material. This strategy lets students study bit by bit, and helps them figure out which content they might need to study more.
If a test is rapidly approaching and students don’t have enough time to use the studying methods previously mentioned, they can try using active recall. When using this method, students write down every detail they can remember related to the material, then check what they missed or need to expand on. Active recall is most effective for students who enjoy taking notes and writing.
Additionally, students can add the Feynman Technique to their study regimen. This technique involves students explaining a complicated concept on their test to someone else in their own words. Teaching others, such as a friend, family member, or even pets, is a good way to force students to truly understand the material.
Lastly, students can use the Leitner System, which is based on three piles of flashcards. All of a student’s flashcards start in the first pile. When a student goes through the first pile, they put the cards they fully understand into the second pile. Conversely, students move the flashcards that they don’t understand into the third pile. Then, they put all the cards back into one pile and start over again. This process is repeated until all the cards are put in the second pile. This allows students to physically see their progress and track their learning.
Learning effective study techniques can help decrease test anxiety and ensure that you are fully prepared for tests. Along with these methods, it is also important to get enough sleep before taking tests. According to News in Health, sleeping helps one move study material into their long-term memory. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommends eight to ten hours of sleep for teenagers aged 14 to 17.
Furthermore, studying in a clean, clear environment can help individuals focus and reduce stress. According to researchers from Yale University, visual clutter competes for the brain’s processing power, making it harder to concentrate and retain information. However, studying in a tidy room can do the opposite, encouraging productivity and leading to more interesting ideas.
Along with a neat study space, listening to calming music can help students concentrate. The University of Arizona recommends instrumental music such as classical, ambient, or lo-fi, as well as slow, lyric-free songs. This music is shown to boost memory by activating multiple brain regions that relate to memory and emotion, releasing dopamine to increase focus and motivation.
As well, coffee and candy can provide a temporary boost. Healthier options include edamame, apples, or nuts, which have the same positive effect without inciting a blood sugar crash later.