How to study effectively without studying too early?

Introduction Many people believe in order to get a good grade they must spend a number of hours during the day. Sometimes this can mean they end up rewriting the whole day and still feel they are not learning enough due to becoming tired, loosing focus and struggling to retain what they’ve learnt. In truth to study effectively is not about long hours, its about how you study. By planning your study, staying focused, constantly revising and allowing yourself time to rest, you can study more efficiently.

1. Set specific study goals

Before starting set achievable objectives. Don’t write ‘study maths’ put in a specific obligation. Maybe to understand a concept or answer 5 practice questions. This will help to keep you focused over your tasks, there will be less stress as you know exactly how your going to get things done. Initially try to complete either two or three important tasks in your day. Once you have completed these, you can use your extra time and energy to go onto completing extra tasks.

1. Study in chunks.

It can be exhausting to study for a handful of hours. To help help with this we can use the pomodoro technique. Studying for 25 minutes then taking a 5 minute break. Focus during your study session and take a break where you can stand up, stretch and drink water. If 25-minutes isn’t for everyone some like to study for 40 or 50 minutes. As long as you can focus and give yourself the right chunk of time to take a break then you’re set.

1. Test yourself.

Immersing yourself in re-reading the same chapter is not always an indicator that you are learning. Instead of doing this, get into the habit of testing yourself. After going through a topic shut your notes and write out the key points in your own words, Practice questions, solve problems or write down important definitions. Anything where you need to rely on your memory. Once you realise you are struggling with something go back to the section and revise. This will show any areas you are struggling with.

1. Minimise distractions.

Having your phone, notifications, social media and distractions can cause you to lose focus. Taking even short breaks can cause struggles when returning to a challenging task. Before you start, have everything prepped. Have your books, notes and stationery ready. If possible, turn your phone to silent or keep it away from the area you are studying. If you need to use your phone for an educational video or online class make sure you close other apps on your phone. Having a quiet and organised area can help aid your concentration. Keeping your study area comfortable and simple.

1. Constant revision

Leave a whole syllabus until the last few days can create unnecessary stress. Constantly revising helps you identify any areas you can struggle with. Try revising after a day, the next day after a few days and eventually after a longer period. This is known as spacing. Taking short revision sessions can help you revise definitions, formulas, key concepts or questions you may have struggled with in the past. Its often easier to regularly practice.

1. Pick challenging and important areas.

Not everything will take the same amount of time. Some concepts can be easy however you will have to regularly practise. Identify what is most important for your tasks and reach your challenging areas first. Complete these when you are relatively alert. Later sessions can be used for completing lighter tasks. Such as tidying up your notes. Don’t get stuck on perfecting one small area. Try to keep your study balanced so you can adequately cover your work.

1. Look after your sleep and wellbeing.

To study effectively, look after your mental and physical wellbeing. Lack of sleep can help with your concentrate, memory and learning. Try to go to sleep at a reasonable time every night. Eat regular meals, drink plenty of water and include a bit of exercise. Taking short breaks can help you. Taking breaks isn’t wasting study time.

1. Set a realistic study schedule.

A good study schedule will be based around your real life. Many students will go to college/school and therefore have assignments to complete, travelling, household duties and more. Maybe bring your focused study session when you’re back home. Once you’ve completed a break and completed another session. You could also include a short revision session before bed. Everyone will have different schedules. Don’t copy other peoples. Just create something realistic for you. Adjust if needed. Conclusion By setting specific goals, chunking your study, testing your knowledge, regularly revising and making sure your looking after your wellbeing, you can study effectively. To help you, start with small changes. Pick a few realistic goals and commit to them. This will help to make your study time more useful! Its not about not studying for long periods of time but using the time you have wisely.