1 answer
Preston
Student
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
1
Question
Updated
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What are the best ways to study to retain information quickly?
I don't have much time to focus and study and I'm wondering what the test way to study would be so that I can retain the information for tests and quizes.
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1 answer
Sai Mun Lee
Global Program Manager
1
Answer
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Updated
Sai Mun’s Answer
Hi Preston,
From my experience in a fast-paced work environment nowadays, the same principle applies — whether you're preparing for exams or managing complex projects. It’s not about effort alone, it’s about approach.
Here are 4 simple but powerful ways to study more effectively:
1. Don’t just read — test yourself
In the workplace, we don’t remember things by reading reports again and again — we remember by applying and recalling.
Same for studying. Close your notes and try to recall key points. The struggle to remember actually strengthens your memory.
2. Focus in short, quality sessions
Long hours don’t equal better results.
In work, we break tasks into manageable chunks — studying should be the same. Try 25–30 minutes of focused study, followed by a short break. You’ll stay sharper and retain more.
3. Review in phases, not last minute
Cramming rarely works long-term.
Just like project updates, revisiting information over time helps reinforce understanding. A quick review the next day and a few days later makes a big difference.
4. Simplify and explain what you learn
If you can’t explain something simply, you don’t fully understand it yet.
Try explaining concepts in your own words — as if you’re teaching a friend. This is one of the fastest ways to identify gaps and improve clarity.
Key takeaway:
Studying effectively isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing the right things consistently.
In both learning and work, the winning approach is the same: Focus, apply, review, and simplify.
From my experience in a fast-paced work environment nowadays, the same principle applies — whether you're preparing for exams or managing complex projects. It’s not about effort alone, it’s about approach.
Here are 4 simple but powerful ways to study more effectively:
1. Don’t just read — test yourself
In the workplace, we don’t remember things by reading reports again and again — we remember by applying and recalling.
Same for studying. Close your notes and try to recall key points. The struggle to remember actually strengthens your memory.
2. Focus in short, quality sessions
Long hours don’t equal better results.
In work, we break tasks into manageable chunks — studying should be the same. Try 25–30 minutes of focused study, followed by a short break. You’ll stay sharper and retain more.
3. Review in phases, not last minute
Cramming rarely works long-term.
Just like project updates, revisiting information over time helps reinforce understanding. A quick review the next day and a few days later makes a big difference.
4. Simplify and explain what you learn
If you can’t explain something simply, you don’t fully understand it yet.
Try explaining concepts in your own words — as if you’re teaching a friend. This is one of the fastest ways to identify gaps and improve clarity.
Key takeaway:
Studying effectively isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing the right things consistently.
In both learning and work, the winning approach is the same: Focus, apply, review, and simplify.