School is difficult, but studying can make all the difference when it comes to your education. Knowing how to study is oftentimes the difference between passing and failing a class. Here are some of the best study techniques for students to adopt into their routines:
1. Spaced Repetition
One of the most popular and effective study techniques is spaced repetition. This technique involves repeating concepts you are trying to familiarize yourself with over separate periods of time (ie, every other day). This can even work with flashcards on websites like Knowt. This technique is great for memorization and definitely something to consider adding into your study schedule.
2. Pomodoro Technique
Another popular study technique is Pomodoro. While this technique more so helps with time management, it is still an important resource to have. It involves doing focused studying for 25-minute intervals (or shorter, but it is best to not do less than fifteen minutes) four times, with small breaks in between before taking a longer break (this can be anywhere from fifteen minutes to thirty minutes, but try to regulate your break times based on your interval times). After this, you repeat your intervals in fours again. This technique is great for managing time and finding a rhythm in your study schedule.
3. Feynman Technique
This technique has become increasingly popular, especially being paired with the blurting method, which involves writing down everything you remember from a video, lecture, etc. in your notes. The Feynman, however, involves explaining a learned topic to someone (whether it’d be yourself, friend, family member, etc.) or even something (ie, a stuffed animal) in simple terms and trying to find any possible gaps in your understanding. For those who enjoy active learning/recall, this technique would be the most useful for you.
Overall, implementing even one or two of these techniques can be helpful while studying. Besides these techniques, remember to ask teachers for assistance with topics you may be struggling with and take breaks while studying to avoid burnout or frustration. Happy studying!
Author: Natalia Okitukunda, Media Department Member
