The Secret to Studying

Research shows that most students approach studying the wrong way—often just re-reading notes or textbooks, hoping repetition alone will help the material "stick." Unfortunately, this passive approach doesn’t build real understanding. Instead, effective studying requires focused, active engagement. Here’s a strategic guide to help you study smarter and retain more of what you learn.

1. Think Like a Teacher: Quiz Yourself

A powerful way to prepare for exams is to anticipate the kinds of questions your teacher might ask. Imagine you’re the teacher: what questions could you design that would test understanding of the key concepts? Then, answer them. This active questioning technique reveals both what you know and where you need to focus your studies.

2. Highlight with Intention

Highlighting can be helpful, but it’s most effective when used selectively. Instead of highlighting as you read, try this process:

• Read a paragraph or section fully.

• Think about the main ideas.

• Highlight only the essential points you’ll need to remember.

For some, “marginalia” (adding notes in the textbook margins) may work even better. Summarize each paragraph’s key point in a few words. Alternatively, keep brief notes on a separate sheet or digital device—these can be a great reference when it’s time to review.

3. Find Your Optimal Study Environment

Your study environment matters. Some students need total silence, while others prefer background noise. Experiment with different study locations and rotate between a few; research suggests that varying your environment can help improve retention by keeping your mind fresh.

4. Avoid Multitasking with Technology

It’s tempting to keep your phone nearby, but this can be a big distraction. Set up a “tech-free” zone around your study area and give yourself dedicated “tech breaks” every 20 minutes to check your phone. Studies confirm that multitasking with electronics (like switching between text messages and studying) reduces efficiency—just like trying to text while driving.

5. Reverse Your Routine: Study Before Homework

Most students tackle homework first, then study. Reversing this order can help you absorb concepts before applying them to assignments. Here’s why this method works:

• Studying builds your foundational understanding. Start by reviewing the rules, principles, or events you’re learning about—whether it’s physics formulas, historical events, or grammar rules in Spanish.

• Homework then reinforces these concepts by applying them in a structured way, often through specific questions.

By moving from the general to the specific, you deepen your comprehension, making homework easier and more meaningful.

6. Snack Smart: Fuel Your Brain

What you eat can affect your concentration and memory. Snacks like bananas and a square of dark chocolate provide a steady source of energy and offer cognitive benefits. Dark chocolate, for instance, contains compounds that increase blood flow to the brain and release endorphins, boosting both mood and focus.

7. Review Your Notes Regularly

Reviewing your notes within 24 hours of a lesson can boost your retention by 60%. Spend about 30 minutes each evening going over notes from the day to reinforce new information. This will also help you identify areas of confusion early, so you can ask questions in the next class. Staying on top of your notes builds confidence and keeps confusion at bay.

8. Master Note-Taking with the “Cycling Routine”

Effective note-taking combines highlighting and reviewing notes in a systematic way. Try this four-night “cycling” routine:

• Night 1: Read your assignment, and highlight key points.

• Night 2: Review highlights from Night 1, add brief margin notes, and highlight new material.

• Night 3: Type up margin notes from Night 2, add new margin notes, and highlight new material.

• Night 4: Incorporate new margin notes, add highlights, and repeat with newly assigned pages.

By continuously reviewing and refining your notes, you reduce last-minute cramming. By test day, all you need to do is review your typed notes for a comprehensive overview.

9. Consider Small Group Study Sessions

Studying in small groups can be particularly effective for major exams. Medical and law students use this strategy, and it’s just as beneficial for high school students tackling comprehensive tests. Here’s how to organize a productive study group:

• Divide the material evenly among group members, with each person responsible for presenting and testing others on their assigned section.

• During sessions, each student teaches their part, then quizzes the group on it.

• Exchange notes after each presentation, ensuring everyone has comprehensive study materials.

This collaborative approach reinforces your understanding and exposes you to different perspectives, making the material feel more manageable.

Conclusion

Effective studying isn’t about hours spent with your nose in a book—it’s about using strategies that actively engage your brain, test your understanding, and reinforce your memory. Whether you're quizzing yourself, reviewing notes, or studying with a group, these techniques help you make the most of your study time and reduce stress.

For more personalized study strategies, reach out to us at Score At The Top. We’re here to help you succeed every step of the way.