Exam season can be stressful for students. Effective study strategies, especially those backed by science, can make all the difference in the learning process. Here are five scientific study techniques that can transform your grades and the way you prepare for exams.
Why Effective Studying is Important
Effective studying is not just about cramming or spending countless hours memorising your notes. It’s about optimising your time and effort to retain information in the long term. Poor study habits can lead to burnout, frustration, and low self-esteem. By using evidence-based techniques, you can make the most out of your study sessions to succeed in your upcoming exams.
Active Recall and Spaced Repetition
Active Recall:
Active recall involves retrieving information from your memory bank rather than passively reviewing it. For example, using flashcards was found to be very effective for information retention and had a positive correlation to exam scores. Moreover, instead of re-reading your textbook, try answering questions using your own words (without looking at your notes). Active recall allows you to strengthen your neural connections to be more prepared for your exams.
Spaced Repetition:
Also called the “Spacing Effect”, spaced repetition involves reviewing material at increasing intervals over time. Instead of cramming your subject material, split it into smaller chunks and revisit them periodically. According to this study published by Smolen et al., actively revisiting information increases neural connections and synaptic plasticity. If you time these sessions well, learning becomes faster and more engrained in your long-term memory. You can use apps like Anki to use this technique and to reinforce what you have learned.
Paraphrasing and Note-Taking
Paraphrasing:
You have probably heard of paraphrasing in school as a way to prevent plagiarism. However, it is equally essential for effective studying. Taking someone else’s information and putting it into your own words allows you to process the material rather than merely copying it.
Note-Taking:
In the digital age, laptops are used more in the classroom compared to pen and paper. While having a computer is necessary in schools nowadays, this study shows that handwritten notes allow students to retain information better than typing. Since writing takes longer than typing, your brain will presume that written information is essential to retain. Handwriting slows you down, giving you time to think about the material and draw connections.
The Feynman Technique: Teaching the Material to Someone Else
The Feynman Technique is an evidence-based method that involves explaining a concept in simple terms. For example, if you can explain the concept to a child, then you have truly understood the material. There are five steps:
Choosing a Concept:
Pick the topic you need to learn for your exam. Remember that you are trying to explain it to a child or someone unfamiliar with the topic. Write down the topic title at the top of a blank page.
Explain It in Simple Terms:
Break down the concept into its components. Remember, you are teaching it to a child or a beginner, so use simple language.
Look for Gaps in Your Knowledge:
Sometimes, you may realise there are components that you don’t fully understand or can’t simplify. Point out these gaps and revisit them. Usually, beginners or children may ask questions, so it is necessary to highlight these questions.
Simplify and Refine:
After filling in the knowledge gaps, you can rethink your explanation to enhance clarity. It’s important to use examples to make concepts easier to understand.
Teach, Review, and Repeat:
Repeat the last four steps to refine your explanations and deepen your understanding of the material. If they can follow your explanations and ask thought-provoking questions, then you have truly grasped the concept.
The Pomodoro Technique
Studying for extended periods is generally not the best idea. Burnout is typical when trying to study for hours on end. Time management is key for memory retention and synaptic plasticity. The Pomodoro Technique is a technique designed to improve focus and productivity by breaking study sessions into intervals. For example, study for 25 minutes with no distractions, and once that time is up, take a 5-minute break. This one cycle is called a “Pomodoro”. After completing four Pomodoros, you can take a 15 - 30 minute break. This technique works because concentration requires energy, and focusing for hours can result in reduced information processing.
Practice Exams
Practice papers are an essential resource for preparing for your upcoming exams. Simulating an exam environment can ease nerves and familiarise you with the format and types of questions you would encounter. Furthermore, you can identify areas of improvement and focus your study efforts on them.
For example, if you’re preparing for your IGCSE exams, these revision guides could help you ace your exams!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
When Should I Start Preparing for Exams?
Starting early is essential! Several weeks in advance would be ideal for exam preparation. You don’t want to procrastinate and cram at the last minute.
How Many Hours Should I Study Each Day?
It depends entirely on the student and their schedule. To succeed in exams, a solid two to three hours of deep work with breaks would be ideal.
Can I Combine Study Techniques?
Of course! Every student is different, so trying multiple techniques can help you narrow down your preferred study method. Moreover, combining different study techniques can introduce novelty to learning, which makes the learning process more enjoyable.
How Can I Avoid Distractions While Studying?
Put electronic devices away and turn them off. Perhaps even placing them in another room can help. Finding a quiet place to study is also key.
Does Listening to Music Improve Focus While Studying?
It depends on the individual and the type of background music. For instance, fast-paced music or music with lyrics could potentially distract you from retaining information. Concentrating on two things at the same time could limit long-term memory. However, this study concluded that softer music, such as classical or binaural beats, can stimulate a calming atmosphere. This would lead to increased concentration levels.
Effective studying is not only about studying hard but also about working smart. By incorporating these evidence-based techniques, you can optimise your exam preparation. Remember, the key to effective studying lies in processing the subject matter, proper time management, and consistency. If you’re struggling with your study skills and executive functioning, LearnFire’s expert academic coaches can offer support to help you succeed.
Good luck on your exams!