Study habits need adjustment for better results. If retaining information or following a study schedule is a challenge, it's common.
Effective studying differs from person to person, but certain techniques can boost recall, focus, and memory retention.
These five study techniques are proven to work for students worldwide, helping improve learning outcomes.
Setting the Stage: Pre-Studying Techniques
Effective study habits don’t just start with textbooks.
The way you prepare your body and environment plays a major role in how well you retain information.
Here are pre-study techniques to set yourself up for success:
Get Sufficient Sleep
Sleep is essential for optimal learning. Research links better sleep to improved academic performance.
It’s not just about getting enough sleep the night before an exam.
Consistent, quality sleep over several nights boosts memory retention and cognitive function, ensuring your brain is ready to absorb and recall information.
Change Your Study Environment
Switching up your study setting can help improve focus and memory recall. A study environment can significantly impact how well you concentrate and retain information.
Instead of always studying at the same place, try rotating between a quiet café, a library, or a different area at home. This simple change can help sharpen your focus.
Stick to What Works
While variety in study locations can be beneficial, consistency is key when you're under pressure.
If you find a study space that helps you focus, such as a quiet corner at home or a particular café, stick with it when you need the best results.
A consistent environment helps reinforce concentration, especially when facing tight deadlines.
Listen to Calming Music
Music can improve focus, but it’s important to choose the right kind. Classical, instrumental, or lo-fi music works best for study sessions.
Songs with lyrics may distract you from the task at hand. Find calming tunes that help you stay focused and improve your attention span.
Eliminate Distractions
Your phone, social media, or background noise can easily pull you out of focus. Silence your phone, turn off notifications, and find a quiet place to study.
Reducing distractions will help you stay in the zone and absorb information more effectively.
5 Effective Study Methods for Better Learning Outcomes
These study techniques can help improve learning efficiency and retention, whether you're preparing for exams or mastering new topics.
1. The SQ3R Study Technique
The SQ3R technique is a proven study method that helps students retain information and identify key facts. It breaks the study process into five clear steps:
- Survey: Start by skimming the chapter. Focus on headings, subheadings, images, and charts.
- Question: Formulate questions about the chapter. Ask, "What is this chapter about?" or "What do I already know about this topic?"
- Read: Read the chapter actively, searching for answers to your questions.
- Recite: After each section, summarize what you read in your own words. Focus on key points and answer the questions you created.
- Review: Go over the material to reinforce your understanding. Quiz yourself and revisit unclear sections.
This method is effective for anyone worldwide looking to improve learning outcomes, especially before exams.
2. Retrieval Practice
Retrieval practice focuses on actively recalling information, which helps strengthen memory more than simply reviewing your notes or textbook. The act of retrieving answers, rather than just finding them, boosts long-term learning.
To apply retrieval practice effectively:
- Use practice tests: Quiz yourself using practice questions without referring to your notes or book.
- Create your own questions: Act as your teacher by developing questions you think would appear on a test. If you’re studying in a group, exchange questions with others.
- Use flashcards: Write down answers to flashcards before flipping them over to check. This forces you to recall the information rather than passively look at the answer.
3. Spaced Practice
Spaced practice, also known as distributed practice, is one of the most effective ways to master complex material.
It involves spreading out study sessions over time, rather than cramming all at once. This technique helps the brain reinforce and retain information more effectively.
To apply spaced practice:
- Day 1: Learn the material during class.
- Day 2: Review what you learned.
- Day 3: Review again.
- One week later: Revisit and review.
- Two weeks later: Review once more.
Planning ahead is key. Start early in the semester by scheduling daily study sessions, even if exams are months away. This helps maintain consistent review and retention, no matter where you are in the world.
4. The PQ4R Method
The PQ4R method is an active study technique that boosts memorization and comprehension by breaking down the learning process into six steps:
- Preview: Before reading, skim the material. Focus on headings, subheadings, and highlighted text to get an overview.
- Question: Ask yourself questions like, "What do I expect to learn?" or "What do I already know about this topic?"
- Read: Read the material one section at a time, searching for answers to your questions.
- Reflect: Check if you answered all your questions. If not, review the content to find the missing information.
- Recite: Summarize what you’ve read in your own words, either aloud or in writing.
- Review: Go over the material once more to reinforce understanding and answer any remaining questions.
5. The Feynman Technique
The Feynman Technique is a powerful method for mastering concepts quickly by explaining them in simple terms.
The core idea is, "If you want to understand something well, try to explain it simply." By breaking down complex ideas into plain language, you solidify your understanding.
Here’s how to apply it:
- Set the Stage: Write the subject you’re studying at the top of a page and note everything you already know about it.
- ELI5 (Explain Like I’m 5): Teach the concept as if explaining it to someone with no prior knowledge. Use simple words and avoid jargon.
- Assess & Study: Review your explanation. Identify areas where you were unclear or wrong, and return to your notes or materials to fill in the gaps.
- Organize, Convey & Review: Rewrite any complex parts of your explanation in simpler terms. This helps refine your understanding and makes the concept easier to grasp.
The Feynman Technique works globally and can help anyone quickly grasp difficult subjects by simplifying the material and reinforcing learning.
Conclusion
Effective study techniques, like minimizing distractions, rewarding progress, and seeking help when needed, can enhance study sessions and lead to better outcomes.
Building strong study habits takes time, but starting with small, manageable steps can set the foundation for long-term success.
Consistency is key—developing these habits now can carry over into lifelong learning wherever you are in the world.
