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What kind of study techniques work really well?

Hi! I am a student who struggles in studying for tests and keeping up with assignments. What advice do you have?

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Doc’s Answer

McKenna there is no one-size-fits-all approach when learning how to effectively study. Everyone has different abilities, so it is important to determine what works for you and what doesn’t. (Find out what type of learner you are and which study techniques will work best for you. For some students, studying and staying motivated comes easily — finding the best way to study is an ongoing process. It isn’t something that can be left to the night before the test. You should be constantly improving your study skills to better understand what works (and what doesn’t). Two of the most powerful, science-backed strategies for better retention I think are ACTIVE RECALL and SPACED REPETITION. They’re simple, effective, and proven to make learning stick. Yet, surprisingly, most people don’t use them. Mostly because — just guessing — they don’t know about them.

ACTIVE RECALL
Active recall is a learning technique that involves actively retrieving information from your memory rather than simply reviewing it. This technique is based on the idea that the act of retrieving information from memory strengthens the neural pathways associated with that information, making it easier for knowledge retention. Active recall can be achieved through various methods, such as flashcards, quizzes, and self-testing. Active recall studying works by forcing your brain to retrieve information from memory instead of simply recognizing it. When you engage in active recall, you are essentially practicing the act of remembering, which strengthens the neural pathways associated with that information. This makes it easier to recall the information in the future, even after a long period of time has passed.

SPACED REPETITION
Spaced repetition operates by delivering knowledge at increasing time intervals, with greater gaps between reviews as the material is successfully remembered. This strategy makes use of the spacing effect, which is the tendency for information to be recalled better when presented in spaced-out intervals rather than all at once. Spaced repetition encourages more effective consolidation and retention of knowledge by spacing out reviews. It’s a more efficient way to learn and retain information than cramming or mass studying. Secondly, it allows for long-term retention of information, making it useful for learning new skills or languages. It can even be customized to fit individual learning needs and preferences.

CONCLUSION
If you’re not familiar with how to use active recall and spaced repetition, it can be a bit overwhelming to implement. Try these tips to if they make it easier for you McKenna.
✅ Start with clear learning objectives: Define your learning objectives and identify the key concepts that your team needs to master.
✅ Chunk information: Break information down into smaller chunks or categories, and organize them in a logical sequence.
✅ Use active recall to test your team’s knowledge retention: Once they’ve learned a chunk of information, test them by actively recalling the information without looking at their notes or resources. This will help to strengthen their memory and reinforce learning.
✅ Use spaced repetition: Review the information at increasing intervals of time, starting with shorter intervals (e.g., every few hours) and gradually increasing the interval (e.g., every few days, every few weeks, etc.). This is great for making sure you're entering the material in your long-term memory.
✅ Mix up the order: Instead of reviewing information in the same order every time, mix up the order to challenge them and enhance retention.
✅ Use different active recall and spaced repetition methods: Use a variety of techniques to reinforce learning, such as flashcards, quizzes, and practice problems.
✅ Take breaks: Take regular breaks during learning sessions to avoid burnout and increase the chances of knowledge retention.
✅ Get enough sleep: Sleep is crucial for consolidating memories, so make sure to get enough sleep to help your brain process and retain new information.

I hope this will be helpful McKenna
Thank you comment icon Thank you, this is really helpful. McKenna
Thank you comment icon Thank You Erin. Success is an exception, so be exceptional. Doc Frick
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Amber’s Answer

Hi McKenna,

I also struggled a lot with studying when I was growing up, and I always felt like I could never retain information as well as my peers. Some folks are just really good grasping the material and recalling information from memory, but I was never one of them. It was even worse when the subject was something that did not interest me.

I didn't really discover a technique that really worked for me until I got to law school, where I was essentially drowning in tons of dense reading assignments that all culminated in a single exam per semester (my entire grade for any given class depended on how well I performed on a single day--talk about the pressure to perform!). Anyway, what did work for me was to spend a few weeks before finals condensing and consolidating all my notes from the semester into a separate clean outline from which I could review a couple days before the exam. This worked for me because it forced me to actively engage with the material and identify areas I was still fuzzy on. So instead of passively reading and trying to memorize things, I was thinking about the material and trying to understand what I was typing (e.g., is x important that I should include in my outline? Why is x important? and how does x affect y?).

In a non-law school setting where exams and quizzes might be more frequent, it would make sense to keep refining your notes / outlines throughout the semester so you're always engaging with the material and can be better prepared for your exams. You can also experiment with other techniques--flashcards, study groups, etc. When I was in grade school, I found that studying from model answers was somewhat effective for certain subjects. There's really no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to studying, so you will just have to see what works best for you and stick to it.
Thank you comment icon This was super helpful, thank you! Dan
Thank you comment icon Thank you for the advice. McKenna
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Katie’s Answer

Hi, McKenna! Be sure to set aside adequate time for your studying, and find an environment that best suits your learning style. Some people may study best at home in a quiet room, while others may do best in a library or coffee shop. Some people may absorb information best while studying alone, while others may prefer a group study session. Identify what works best for you. Good luck!
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L’s Answer

McKenna

Some effective study techniques I use are flash cards and spaced repetition, where you revisit material at increasing breaks to strengthen memory. I also try studying early in the morning or after a nap as I feel more energized and attentive. Another effective study technique is to keep a distraction-free environment. Avoid studying with music because it could interfere with your short-term memory performance, especially if you need to recall information in a specific order. Keep experientimenting with different methods until you find the study techniques that helps you stay consistent, confident, and prepared.

Best of luck!
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Racheal’s Answer

Hello and thank you for your questions.
One study technique thst is useful is time management. The ability to use time management to helpful in determining how much time is needed to complete an assignment and what is necessary to compete in a given time. When a person is aware of themselves they are able to determine how long it will take them to study, and allow for balance in their life. For example, I would give myself a two hour block to write for my dissertation, and also balance time with my family and for person care.
Another technique is distribution which comes from time management. Breaking up assignments so that you are not trying to complete everything in one setting is important.
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Jace’s Answer

Hi McKenna!

When I was in college, I initially struggled to find my studying style. I was the classic case of someone who didn't feel the need to study a ton in high school, who suddenly needed to learn effective studying skills quickly!

One of the best tips I was given was from a blog for folks with ADHD and other neurodiversities. They suggest doing things in chunks. For example, taking an hour to study one subject, then taking a 30-45 minute break, and then another hour of studying. I would typically do an hour of rereading and reviewing highlighted portions of my notes or textbooks, take a break, and then do an hour of flashcards and other resources available on websites like Quizlet, and then spend a third hour having my roommate quiz me or studying via FaceTime with friends in my class.

It can take quite a while to find a method that will click with your brain! No joke, I didn't learn that tip of taking things in chunks of time until I was in my last semester of my senior year! Wishing you luck and that you find your groove soon!

Jace recommends the following next steps:

The blog I mentioned in my answer is called The ADHD Weasel! Although I don't have ADHD, my brain gets really scrambled from anxiety and depression, and that blog has some really awesome life-organization tips/helpful tools to help make life easier!
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Phill’s Answer

Hey McKenna,

It is great to hear that you are looking for ways to keep up with and advance your studying techniques. Studying is very important and will help you keep your grades up as well as help you with learning other skills in the future. There are many ways to go about studying and it is important to find what works best for you. Here are some tips and suggestions you can consider using when studying.

Flashcards-A large portion of what you need to study might be memorization. A great way to go about that is repetition. For example, for vocabulary words, you would put the word on one side and the definition on the other. Make a stack, and then test yourself with them. The more you do it and say it over and over again, the more it will stick with you. You can do the same thing with topics, places, and equations. Be sure not to put super long sentences. Instead, use bullet points and condense the definition as much as possible. The more you do this, the better.

It is good to read things out, but it is also important to write them out as well. Eventually, you will be able to study while you do other things. An example of this, using your note cards while traveling in the car. Be sure to stay persistent, as learning is a process that can take time.

Best of luck on your journey!
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Wong’s Answer

Hi McKenna! With the right study methods, you can improve your focus, understanding, and memory. One good method is active recall. This means testing yourself instead of just reading. For example, read a page, then close your book and try to remember what you just read. You can also use flashcards to quiz yourself.

Another helpful method is spaced repetition. This means studying the same thing many times, but with breaks in between, like once today, again tomorrow, and again a few days later. This helps you remember better.

Time management is also important. You can use a planner or calendar to keep track of homework and tests. Break big tasks into small steps so they feel easier to finish.

To understand something better, you can try teaching it to someone else. If you can explain it in simple words, that means you really understand it. Study groups can also help. You can learn from others and stay motivated.

Keep practicing, and you’ll find what works best for you. All the best!
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Kim’s Answer

McKenna,

The "best" study techniques are the ones that work for you! This is going to require trial and error on your part.

The first thing I recommend is that you figure out when your brain is most alert. If this is at 10 a.m., unfortunately it means you will need to be focusing on studying on weekends and holidays. This may not be an ideal situation when you have a test on Wednesday. However, you can do the bulk of the studying over the weekend, and review the night before, or, even that morning.

Next, figure out the second-best time to study. Is it late evenings after school, or would early morning work better? Could you start getting up earlier to capture those minutes when your brain is functioning best? Maybe get up at 430 am, eat breakfast, and then study?

After you figure out the "when," then you move on to the "How." How depends on What you are studying. If it is memorization, flashcards work best. For me. But, I am not you! If it is content you need to truly understand, give yourself test questions. Compare and Contrast Presidents Johnson and Kennedy, for example, is a lot different than, "what was Johnson's position on the Vietnam War?"

Once you learn How your teacher's test, studying becomes easier. Until you know their test-style, things are stressful.

Remember to stay hydrated, eat protein, and get enough sleep and exercise. All important to the brain!

As to keeping up with assignments, are you struggling with the work, or do you procrastinate? Or do you not keep a calendar of what is due when? Again, figure out what works for you. Don't look at projects as a chore, look at them as an exciting challenge. Try to interject your own personality and creativity into them.

It's great that you recognize these challenges now, and are working to overcome them. Organizational and study habits are important throughout life. good luck!
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John’s Answer

Hi McKenna!
These are the things that worked for me in high school, college, and other courses I've taken:
1. Show up to class and listen closely.
2. Take handwritten notes in class, then type them up before the next class. That way you get the material you're trying to learn FOUR times: Reading, listening, hand notes, typed notes. That's usually enough for most people to get the material in their heads. By that time, a quick review before the test is all you need.
3. Ask questions whenever you don’t understand something.
4. Join a study group where you do homework together.
5. Review your notes and take the review quizzes in textbooks or handouts
6. Study regularly all through the week instead of cramming for tests at the last minute
7. Get reading and writing assignments done right away: How I learned this: I had a summer class in college where three book reports were due by a deadline. For each report not turned in by the deadline, you had to do three more by the week before finals. On the deadline, I was half through with three books, now I had 12 reports due. Even though I got an A on the final, I got D in the class because I didn't get all my book reports in!
8. Take time to have fun at least one day on the weekends.
9. Take care of your health: Eat right, sleep well, and stay hydrated.
Good luck on your journey - you're going to do great!
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Rebecca’s Answer

Thank you for your question. This question is related to your time management. Firstly, you need to find out the time management tool that suits you, e.g. Google Calendar, MS Outlook, Phone calendar, etc.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Put down the time you need to attend classes
2. Allocate some time every day on your assignment, projects, etc. Review the material covered in the class of the day. If you have any question, ask the teacher on the next school day.
3. Make sure you have enough sleep and do some exercise every day
4. Assign more time for revision before assessments
5. Form study groups with your classmates for assessment preparation. It can help you to memorize and deepen the understanding of the material
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
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Bhagesh’s Answer

McKenna, I really appreciate you reaching out—I'm more than happy to offer guidance.

If you could share a bit more context around your goals or the situation you're navigating, I’ll be able to tailor my guidance to be as effective and relevant as possible.

By the way, thank you for being honest. That kind of self-awareness is rare and powerful. Struggling with studying and assignments doesn’t mean you’re not smart or capable. Often, it’s not a skill issue but a will issue. Actually attitude & discipline are major factors that influence the way we think.

Let’s start with mindset. Discipline isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing up even when it’s hard. Think of it like brushing your teeth: you don’t wait until you feel motivated, you just do it because it’s part of your routine. The same goes for studying. Build small habits that feel doable. For example, commit to 25 minutes of focused work using the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes study, 5 minutes break). It’s simple, but it trains your brain to focus in short bursts without burning out.

Now, about moral values - this might sound deep, but it matters. When you study, you’re not just doing it for grades. You’re honoring your future self. You’re saying, “I care enough about who I’m becoming to put in the work today.” That sense of purpose can be the fuel when motivation runs dry.

Here are some human-tested strategies that really work:

1. Spaced Repetition
Instead of cramming, review material over time. Apps like 'Anki'
Keep up to date with To-Do's and use smart flashcards to help you remember things long-term.

2. Active Recall
Don’t just reread—quiz yourself. Try writing questions on flashcards or explaining concepts out loud using the 'Feynman Technique'. What it means is teach it like you’re explaining to a 5-year-old.

3. The 'SQ3R' Principle
For reading-heavy subjects, use Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review. It helps to break down and absorb content.

4. Time Blocking
Use a planner or calendar to block out time for each subject. Treat it like an appointment with your future.

5. Environment & Energy
Study in a clean, quiet space. Keep water nearby. Take care of your body. Sleep, movement, and food affect your brain more than you think.

McKenna, you don’t need to be perfect, but you just need to be consistent. Every time you choose to study, even for a few minutes, you’re building something. And if you ever feel stuck, remember: your future self is cheering you on.

Please feel free to reach out should you have more questions!

Looking forward to hearing more from you!

Arise, Awake & stop not until the goal is reached!! All powers to you!

Best,
Bhagesh Pant

Bhagesh recommends the following next steps:

https://e-student.org/best-study-methods/
https://studeospaces.com/ace-your-exams-10-proven-study-techniques/
https://brainmatterslearning.com/effective-study-techniques/
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MANAHIL’s Answer

Hello !

Here are some study techniques that can really help:

Pomodoro Method :Study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four rounds, take a longer break to recharge.

Active Recall :Instead of rereading notes, test yourself or explain the topic in your own words to strengthen memory.

To-Do List : Break big tasks into smaller steps and tick them off as you go. This makes studying less stressful.

Teach What You Learn : Explaining a concept to someone else (or even to yourself) helps you master it faster.

Consistency : Studying a little every day is much more effective than last-minute cramming.


Stay patient with yourself : progress takes time, but small consistent steps make a big difference.


Manahil
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Erin’s Answer

Hi McKenna,

You've got some great advice already, and I want to share a tip that really helped me when I returned to college after a long break: stay as organized as you can. Use a spreadsheet or notebook for each class to track due dates alongside your syllabus. Taking notes by hand can really help you remember things better.

Something that worked wonders for me was forming a small study group with 3-4 classmates. After our first test, we understood the professor's style and created our own practice tests. Each of us contributed five questions, and then we took and graded each other's tests. This method forced us to review our notes and dive into the book, and we did this a week before major tests.

Try to find some uninterrupted study time, minimizing distractions. Music is fine, as studies show it can be helpful. If you prefer group study, find classmates who also want to improve. My husband led a study group at a local restaurant, where they reviewed notes and discussed chapter questions over dinner. Everyone in the group ended up with a B or better.

The key is discovering what works best for you, as everyone learns differently. Keep experimenting until you find your groove!
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Upasana’s Answer

Hi McKenna! Here are some study techniques that work well for me:

1. Study in short bursts: Use a timer to focus for 25 minutes at a time. Use flashcards or tables instead of long paragraphs, and write small notes in your own words.

2. Teach to remember: Explain what you've learned out loud as if you're teaching someone else. Create catchy phrases to help remember key points.

3. Use the 2×3 Rule: Focus on 2 subjects a day and complete 3 tasks for each. Make a checklist: Do → Check → Done.

4. Quick daily review: Spend 5–10 minutes each day going over notes or flashcards. Focus on what you tend to forget.

Hope this helps!
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James Constantine’s Answer

Good Day McKenna!

Keep thinking about the course material, even when you close the books and lecture notes. Think of it like a story that logically progresses, from point 'A' to 'Z.'

SEE https://www.msn.com/en-au/money/career/i-m-a-professor-i-tell-all-my-college-freshmen-these-6-tips-so-they-have-a-successful-first-year/ar-AA1qFm3k?

NUTRITION

"If you want to fly a jet fighter plane at high altitude, then you need the correct fuel!"

If you have a Chrysler motor car, you do not contact Ford to find out what sort of oil to use in the motor. You consult the maker!

The best fuel for humans is low-glycemic-index slow carbohydrate foods.

SEE https://www.medicinenet.com/low-glycemic_foods_list_guide/article.htm

An example is 1/2 to 1 cup of baked beans or 1 to 2 slices of Dark Pumpernickel Rye Bread. This is best consumed every two hours with an ounce of high-protein food such as salmon, sardines, or tuna. Add plenty of salad vegetables. Also,1 teaspoon of olive oil spread. Add 2 cups of unsweetened green tea with fresh lemon juice.

In 1980, I observed the study experts together in the university library in Brisbane. Strangely, they would have a break every two hours. Then they would consume cooked noodles and green tea. Their manner of speech revealed to me they were successfully devoted students. They were there the whole day. I tutored med 2 biochemistry. My ace student would always get 9/10. He used to snack regularly. Mediterranean foods, yum.

REFERENCES

There is strong evidence that good nutrition supports academic success. You can explore various studies on this topic through these links for more information.

⦁ EVIDENCE FOR THE IMPORTANCE OF NUTRITION IN THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT:-

#1 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16014126/ (Nutrition and student performance at school Howard Taras 1)

#2 https://www.cmich.edu/news/details/how-important-is-nutrition-to-academic-success (How important is nutrition to academic success?)

#3 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5746694/ (Associations between Dietary Intake and Academic Achievement in College Students: A Systematic Review Tracy L Burrows 1, Megan C Whatnall 1, Amanda J Patterson 1, Melinda J Hutchesson 1,*)

#4 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27599886/ (Is there an association between dietary intake and academic achievement: a systematic review T Burrows 1, S Goldman 1, K Pursey 1, R Lim 2)

#5 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5746694/ (Associations between Dietary Intake and Academic Achievement in College Students: A Systematic Review Tracy L Burrows 1, Megan C Whatnall 1, Amanda J Patterson 1, Melinda J Hutchesson 1,*)

#6 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28487248/ (Associations between selected dietary behaviors and academic achievement.)

#7 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36047050/ (Dietary intake and educational outcomes among Australian university students: cross-sectional and longitudinal associations Lena Babaeer 1, 2, Michalis Stylianou 3, Jacqueline L Walker 3, Sjaan R Gomersall 1, 3)

#8 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27015180/ (Dietary Habits Are Associated With School Performance in Adolescents So Young Kim 1, Songyong Sim, Bumjung Park, Il Gyu Kong, Jin-Hwan Kim, Hyo Geun Choi)

#9 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39439747/ (Association Between Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Cognitive Performance Among Adolescent Students From Underdeveloped Cities in Brazil: A Cross-Sectional Study - João Victor Laurindo Dos Santos 1 2, Ingrid Sofia Vieira de Melo 2, Clara Andrezza Crisóstomo Bezerra Costa 2 3, Layanne Cabral de Almeida 2, Dafiny Rodrigues Silva 4, Débora Cavalcante Ferro 1, Déborah Tenório Costa Paula 1, Mateus de Lima Macena 4, Nassib Bezerra Bueno 1, 4)

10 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30810252/ (Higher diet quality in university students is associated with higher academic achievement: a cross-sectional study. M C Whatnall 1 , A J Patterson 1 , T L Burrows 1 , M J Hutchesson 1).

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Aparna’s Answer

Hi McKenna! It's wonderful that you're exploring this topic. It's always a good time to learn effective study techniques. Active recall is amazing and helped me achieve top scores in college. I used to just read chapters repeatedly, hoping to memorize them, but that's not the best way to learn. Instead, I started creating practice questions after each lecture or chapter. Notion is a great tool for this. Make testing yourself a regular habit, so your brain gets used to the test format.

Also, try to establish a consistent study routine. Studying a little bit every day, well in advance, really helps. When you get your syllabus, mark all your due dates and exam dates in your calendar. This will keep you ahead and help you aim for a perfect GPA.

You can do it!
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Doc’s Answer

The "absolute best" study tip is to use active recall and spaced repetition, as this scientifically-backed method helps you understand and retain information more effectively than passive reading or cramming.
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