good study habits speech

27 Good Study Habits of Straight-A Students

Study habits refer to the consistent practice and approach to study, on a regular basis, to enhance academic performance.

The good thing about a habit is that once you do it on a regular basis, it becomes easy. So, your job is to get into this habit early. Once you’re into the habit, university becomes easy (well, easier ).

Good study habits that I recommend include getting into the routine of heading to the library (or a similar study space) to study without distractions, chunking your studies by subject, and using spaced repetition for things that require rote memorization .

I also recommend studying with friends – such as by testing one another – whenever possible.

The integration of efficient study habits enhances academic performance and motivation to study . By developing effective study strategies adjusted to your personal learning style, you improve concentration and retention of information – and concentration, more than time spent studying, is found to be a key factor for success (Nonis & Hudson, 2010).

Good Study Habits

1. Time Management Time management refers to being able to efficiently allocate your time so you don’t run out of time, and so you have enough time to allocate to all important tasks. As a basis, you could initiate a dedicated study schedule, specifying the time slots for each subject. For instance, you might want to allot your mornings for theory-heavy subjects like Anatomy, and save the afternoons for practice-oriented subjects like Clinical Skills. Don’t forget to also block time for regular study breaks and social events. This is crucial to prevent burnout and maintain longevity – university is a marathon, not a sprint.

Read Also: 7 Things to do in your First Week of University

2. Using Active Reading Strategies This is the process of engaging with the material by asking questions and drawing connections. Instead of passively reading your texts, you can participate more actively by summarizing the information in your own words, teaching it to someone else, quizzing yourself, or creating visual aids like diagrams and mind maps. As Issa et al. (2012) found, reading relevant information daily is an effective study habit for improving grades.

3. Setting Realistic Goals This strategy involves laying out achievable objectives for each study session or topic. Setting goals not only keeps you focused, but also helps gauge your progress. For example, instead of aiming to read an entire biology textbook in two days, you might target mastering one chapter per day. I recommend setting both short-term study goals and long-term study goals using the SMART Goals method .

4. Prioritization Successful students often prioritize tasks based on their deadlines and degree of importance. You might follow the Eisenhower Box method: divide your tasks into four categories, namely, important and urgent, important but not urgent, not important but urgent, and not important and not urgent. For instance, an upcoming exam translates into an important and urgent task, hence it would be first on your list.

5. Spaced Repetition This strategy involves studying information over incremental intervals instead of cramming it in one sitting. You might review your notes on the day you learn something, then again in a couple of days, then after a week, and so forth. There are even apps like the Anki flashcards app that have a built-in spaced repetition algorithm that can space how often ideas are presented to you.

6. Creating a Suitable Environment Each individual’s ideal study environment may differ based on personal preferences . Some people need complete silence, while others work better with some background noise. If you like silence, the quite section of a library is a good place to start – I recommend making it a habit to go to the library at your university as often as possible. Conversely, if you feel background noise helps you to concentrate, consider studying at a cafe. But the key is to ensure your environment is right for you. As Ogbodo (2010, p. 229) argues: “Where to study is as important as what to study and how to go about studying.”

7. Taking Breaks Integrating regular short breaks into your study pattern can boost your productivity and mental agility because it decreases distractions during focused study time. And this is important. As Walck-Shannon, Rowell and Frey (2021) found, “students reported being distracted about 20% of their study time, and distraction while studying negatively predicted exam performance.” So, let’s avoid that – by splitting our time between strong focus, then rest. Typically, the Pomodoro technique is a popular method for this, where you study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four such cycles, you take a longer break of 15-20 minutes. During your breaks, you can engage in some light activity such as stretching or walking to invigorate yourself.

8. Maintaining Physical Health Eating well, getting regular exercise, and ensuring enough sleep are often overlooked aspects of efficient studying. Research shows that a balanced diet, physical activity, and proper sleep improve cognitive functions , including memory and concentration. You may want to establish a regular sleep schedule, incorporate a balanced diet, and schedule regular exercise sessions each week into your routine.

9. Using Technology Wisely Technology offers a range of tools that can streamline your study process. For instance, you can use apps for time management (e.g., Rescue Time), note-taking (e.g., Evernote), or spaced repetition (e.g., Anki). While these apps can be beneficial, remember to keep checks on screens’ disruptive nature and the habit of digital distraction. As practice, try turning off your phone’s notifications when you study, or set ‘Do Not Disturb’ intervals.

10. Review and Revise Sessions Regular review of study materials aids in long-term retention of information. You can allocate specific time slots each week to revisit old notes, attempt self-test papers or engage in group discussions. For instance, you might dedicate your Sunday mornings to revising everything you’ve covered during the preceding week.

11. Active Writing Transcribing information demands active engagement, thereby reinforcing your understanding and memory of the subject. You might opt to rewrite complex concepts in your own words or diagrammatically represent intricate processes. For example, instead of merely reading about the human circulatory system, consider drawing it out with brief annotations.

12. Seeking Help When Needed Understanding when to seek help is an underrated study habit. If you find yourself struggling with a subject, don’t hesitate to approach your professors, peers, or study groups for clarification. You might also seek online resources such as academic forums or educational websites. Remember, it’s better to clarify doubts initially than to have misconceptions hamper your overall learning.

13. Mindfulness and Focus Mindfulness, or present-moment awareness, can help enhance your comprehension and retention during studying. You could practice mindfulness by removing distractions, concentrating on the task at hand, and making a conscious effort to absorb the material.

14. Integrating Study with Real-Life Scenarios Applying the theoretical knowledge learned during study sessions to real-life instances can facilitate a deeper understanding. You might relate basic principles of economics to household budgeting or chemistry to cooking. This practice can help convert abstract concepts into tangible examples.

15. Regular Self-Assessment Implementing regular exams or quizzes to assess your understanding and memory can be a direct way to monitor progress. You can either use ready-made quizzes available online or design a short assessment yourself. As you answer, mark out the areas you struggled with for further review. This method will help you know where you stand in your preparation and what areas need extra effort.

16. Employing Mnemonics This involves using techniques to retain and retrieve information. The method could be as simple as creating an acronym or conjuring up a relevant mental image. For example, in recalling the taxonomical rank in biology – Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species – you might use the well-known mnemonic phrase: “King Phillip Came Over For Good Soup.” Examples of additional mnemonic techniques include the method of loci and memory linking .

17. Incorporating Understandable Examples Since abstract concepts can be confusing, associating them with relateable analogies can help you grasp the idea. This technique depends heavily on your creativity and could be as simple as linking a literary theme to a popular movie plot. Ensuring your examples make sense to you is vital.

18. Varying Study Methods It is beneficial to avoid monotony and experiment with multiple learning techniques. This can include oscillating between solitary studying and group study sessions, or alternating between text-based learning and audio-visual aids. For instance, following a hefty reading session, you might want to watch a related documentary or podcast on the topic. Switching up strategies not only prevents burnout but also caters to different facets of your learning style.

19. Note-Taking Strategy Effective note-taking is a skill that helps in better understanding and remembrance of knowledge. You should decide a note-taking strategy which could be outlining, mind mapping, or the Cornell method, and stick to it. For example, you might use the Cornell Method, which divides the paper into notes, cues, and a summary section for enhancing retention and review.

20. Regularity and Consistency Consistency is the cornerstone of strong study habits. Establishing a regular routine that allocates specific periods for study each day leads to better academic performance. For instance, studying for two hours per day consistently is more effective than cramming for fourteen hours once a week.

21. Engage All Senses Engaging multiple senses aids in strengthening your memory of the subject matter. This could involve reading aloud, rewriting notes, creating visual aids, or even using software to convert text to speech. The goal is to consume the information through as many sensory channels as possible to maximize retention. For example, if you’re studying foreign vocabulary, you could listen to the pronunciation, read the definition, write the word several times, and visualize an image related to it.

22. Reflective Learning Reflective learning involves regularly taking a few moments to contemplate what you’ve learned. This process ensures you understand the main concepts and helps you evaluate how effectively the learning material has been understood. For instance, after reading a section on World History, take a moment to think about what questions have been answered and what new questions have arisen in your mind about the topic.

23. Preparing for the Next Class Reviewing the material that will be covered in the next class helps make the class more productive and understandable. By having prior knowledge of the topic, you can better participate in class discussions and raise insightful queries. For example, if tomorrow’s Physics class covers Electromagnetic Waves, you might want to read the corresponding chapter tonight.

24. Constructive Procrastination While complete avoidance of procrastination is the goal, sometimes it’s unavoidable. Constructive procrastination involves doing another task that also needs to be done when you feel like procrastinating. If you find yourself unable to study Civil Law, consider switching to another pending task, such as completing your Mathematics assignment. This way, you remain productive while giving in to the urge to procrastinate.

25. Visualization Techniques Visualization involves picturing the information in your mind, which can significantly improve memory and recall. For instance, when studying Anatomy, envisioning the body parts, systems, and processes can enhance your understanding. If you’d like to explore this strategy more, read my article on the visual peg-word system for memorization .

26. Listen to Music Without Lyrics Listening to music while studying is a controversial topic. Some people think it helps them to achieve a flow state, while most research suggests that “ media multitasking ” is a distraction whether we realize it or not (Xu, Wang, & Woods, 2019). Generally, I recommend that if you do like that background nose, try to listen to music without lyrics, like lo-fi playlists from YouTube, which act as background noise and could potentially prevent your mind from wandering.

27. Study with Friends Thalluri (2016) found that “study buddy support groups” significantly support studying. Friends can keep each other accountable and help motivate one another. And, according to social learning theory , working in groups helps us to reinforce knowledge. For example, if you’re talking about the course content with friends, you’ll hear their unique perspectives, which you can critically compare to your own, which augments, supports, positively alters, and strengthens your own perspectives.

Study habits act as the building blocks of your academic journey. Efficient study habits not only ensure better academic performance but also help in gaining lifelong skills like time management, goal-setting, and self-discipline. By adopting effective study habits, you modulate your academic journey to a more favorable and fruitful path.

If you want to dive deeper into getting good study habits, I’d recommend James Clear’s Atomic Habits book – it’s an amazing book for learning to get more productive and optimize your time as a student.

Issa, A.O., Aliyu, M.B., Akangbe, R.B., and Adedeji, A.F. (2012). Reading interest and habits of the federal polytechnic students. International Journal of Learning & Development, 2 (1): 470-486.

Nonis, S. A., & Hudson, G. I. (2010). Performance of college students: Impact of study time and study habits.  Journal of education for Business ,  85 (4), 229-238.

Ogbodo, R. O. (2010). Effective Study Habits in Educational Sector: Counselling Implications.  Edo Journal of Counselling ,  3 (2), 230-242.

Thalluri, J. (2016). Who benefits most from peer support group?–First year student success for Pathology students.  Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences ,  228 , 39-44.

Walck-Shannon, E. M., Rowell, S. F., & Frey, R. F. (2021). To what extent do study habits relate to performance?.  CBE—Life Sciences Education ,  20 (1). doi: https://doi.org/10.1187/cbe.20-05-0091

Xu, S., Wang, Z., & Woods, K. (2019). Multitasking and dual motivational systems: A dynamic longitudinal study.  Human Communication Research ,  45 (4), 371-394. doi: https://doi.org/10.1093/hcr/hqz009

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 5 Top Tips for Succeeding at University
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 50 Durable Goods Examples
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd/ 100 Consumer Goods Examples
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13 Effective Study Habit Examples: Improve Your Study Routine

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Are you a student looking to build effective study habits? Is your study routine not as effective as it could be?

Maybe it’s time to follow a new study schedule that will help you better retain material, manage your time, help you retain information and even help you improve your concentration and focus.

Here are 13 good study habit examples you can use to enhance your learning style, develop a quality study routine and start achieving your educational goals . ​

Let’s get to it.

Table of Contents

#1 – Keep Track of Important Dates

Carrying different dates around in your head is a surefire way to forget or start muddling up important dates. Getting a planner or calendar is an easy way to store this vital information.

A calendar or planner allows you to keep track of due dates, examinations, and various tasks to complete for different projects – having this on paper eases your mental load.

A good planner allows you to keep track of everything you need to know and also allows you to organize your own time easily. This leads to more effective studying and less wasted time.

To get started, here are our recommended study planners .

#2 – Know Your Dominant Learning Style

It’s important to know that there are many different styles of learning and each person will retain information better in different ways.

• As you can see, visual learners learn best when pictures, images, and spatial understanding is used. (Check out our collection of vision board ideas for students .)
• Auditory learners prefer using music, sounds or both.
• Kinesthetic learners prefer a more physical style of learning through using the body, sense of touch and hands.
• Logical learners desire to use reasoning, logic and systems. (And like answering logic questions !)
• Verbal learners will prefer using words in writing and speech.
• Social learners will prefer to learn with other people or in groups.
• Solitary learners are able to learn best alone.

Once you have figured out which style of learning works best for you, it will help you determine how to study, where to study, when to study, what distracts you and what study aids you should use.

Consistency gets results!

Make your study habit part of your morning routine so that it becomes an effortless part of your day. Get excited about learning instead of dreading your study schedule.

To learn more about the different learning styles, read our article on the Learning Retention Pyramid .

#3 – Create and Write Down Realistic Study Goals

If your goal is too big to achieve, then you might be setting yourself up for failure and this will also not help motivate you to study and accomplish your SMART student goals , or if you're in college, your SMART college student goals .

Once you know your learning style, do a self-assessment of your current study habits and your current grades.

Here are some questions to ask yourself that will help you create realistic goals and come up with a plan for good study habits.

• When do you usually study and for how long?
• Do you find that it is effective?
• Are you happy with your grades?
• What subjects do you need to focus on or are having difficulty with?
• What grades do you need to have in order to pass?
• What are your personal commitments and priorities?

Here's our roundup of the best (and free) study plan templates to help make sure you stay on top of your academic goals.

After answering and reflecting on these questions, you’ll be able to see areas where you need to focus.

Maybe you are not spending enough time doing the right amount of work necessary each day or perhaps you choose to study late at night when you’re not as alert and energetic.

If you have noticed your grades are slipping in certain courses then perhaps you need to hire a tutor to help you with those subjects.

Social commitments or spending time on social media can eat away the hours. While it’s fun to socialize, pruning back some time spent here to study can pay off hugely in the long run.

Use the SMART method when setting up goals: set Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals.

Check out this guide to learn the 13 steps to write and set SMART goals .

#4 – Make Study Time a Part of Your Daily Routine

If cramming all of your study time into a few long days isn’t working for you then it’s time to try something new (and way less stressful). Make time for studying every single day, with or without exams coming up. 

Remember that consistency is key and once you start getting into good study habits, it will become a routine and that you will be able to maintain throughout the school year. Self-discipline is key.

Check your schedule for the week or month, and see where you have free time or what you can discard:

• Establish your priorities – whether that’s chores, must-attend activities, or appointments. By looking at your calendar, and setting up your priorities, you will be able to schedule your study sessions for the month.
• Choose blocks of time when you feel you’re at your best.
• Try to stay committed to your new study schedule.

Some people work best in the mornings, and others, at night. If you’re unsure when you work best, try studying at different times of the day to see which suits you and your body clock best.

READ: The Study Plan Schedule Strategy (That Actually Works!)

Once you have found which blocks of time work best, you can always add in additional time to study by waking up an hour early to review your notes, or an hour later if you study better at night.

Make sure you build flexibility into your schedule. Your calendar and schedule will change because of unforeseen events. Be ready to plan around some things that come your way and still make time to study.

#5 – How to Structure Your Daily Study Routine

The following are some great ideas to structure your study routine. These work best when you are using a mixture of learning styles as mentioned above.

Start with watching or attending your lectures, and then doing an additional one to three hours of personal study (with breaks) to review your notes on those lectures.

This way, you are using both auditory and visual learning styles as well as repetition, which will help fix what you’re learning into memory.

Start with the difficult topics and subjects first, so that you are not going to put them off until a later date. Shorter study sessions are more effective for subjects you find difficult.

To get started, we recommend you time block your study session so it looks like this:

• Schedule study sessions in two, 30-minute to one hour blocks
• Take short 5- to 10-minute breaks in between.
• When you take breaks, you allow your mind to rest, revitalize and be ready for more learning.

If you want to see what this looks like then here are 17 free study plan templates .

#6 – Establish a Study Zone

Establish a study zone, especially if you're engaged in virtual learning . Some people like quiet places, others will need a little bit of background noise.

Which one do you prefer?

If there is too much going on at your house then maybe it’s time to think about going to the library or a coffee bar and using headphones.

Make sure you have the necessary items with you when you study. You’ll need a desk that’s big enough to spread your books, laptop, paper, and supplies.

Using the best study lighting is also important for everyone when studying. If you want to preserve your eyesight and maximize your time and energy, then choose lighting that will not cause eyestrain or fatigue so you can keep your study session effective at any time of the day.

Don’t be afraid to establish boundaries in your study zone. Let anyone living with you know when your door is closed, it means you do not want to be disturbed. Try not to be distracted by  phone calls or texts, as this breaks your focus.

It’s best to find not just one place to study, but at least two or three additional options . This way, you will have a backup plan in case your main study area can’t be used.

A change of environment is said to improve concentration and creativity so even if you don’t need to change places, it wouldn’t be a bad idea.

While you establish rules for others, you also need to establish rules for yourself:

• Get rid of all distractions.
• Don’t choose a place where you will be tempted to watch TV, check in with your smartphone, or study in a high-traffic area where people will be coming and going.
• Choose to study offline as much as possible. There are way too many distractions that are only a click away.
• If you need to check something, write it down and check it after your study session is over.

Also, here are a few helpful study tips to get the most out of your study session:

• Avoid eating a heavy meal before studying. A heavy meal can make you sleepy which will make it more difficult for you to study. Choose to eat small and frequent meals instead.
• Move or take a short walk before sitting down to study. Stretching, walking or even dancing will help prepare your body and mind to be more receptive to learning.
• Prioritize your assignment dates: write down every assignment or task when you first hear about it instead of just “remembering” it. We live in such a fast paced world that’s full of distractions and it’s easy and normal to forget things.
• Include important details such as page numbers, due dates, test dates, pointers, or anything else that might be helpful when writing assignments down.

One way to make prioritizing your tasks simple is to organize your study notes by using colors or labels. Whether you use an online notebook or a binder, developing your own color-coding system will help you (and your thoughts) get organized.

You can use colors to color-code your subjects, projects and even teachers. You can also use different colored pens, highlighters, sticky notes, folders and labels.

Colors and labels will also help you later when you when you need to review your notes, the colorful sections will help those notes stand out and be unique and memorable.

If you struggle to understand complex study material, using the Feynman technique can help you learn faster and more efficiently.

#7 – Take Great Notes

Do you find yourself struggling with taking good notes?

Develop your note-taking skills to aid what you’re in the process of learning. When you review your notes, they should help you study and remember the most essential information.

You don’t need to take notes of everything ! If the teacher keeps repeating something or has written down any important terms – you should make note of this.

Your note-taking style might also depend on your learning style like we mentioned above. Perhaps you might need to draw little diagrams in your notes if you are more of a visual learner.

An auditory learner will learn better if you record the class discussions and lectures, or you can listen to informational and educational podcasts related to the subject. Your notes do not need to be handwritten if your learning style is auditory.

A good study routine plays to the strengths of your learning style.

Another fun way to remember things is to use mnemonics for better memory recall . For any type of list, steps, stages or parts you can use mnemonic devices to help you retain information. Mnemonic types include: music, name, expression, rhyme, spelling and more.

(If you're looking for another way to improve your memory, check out these memory games .)

#8 – Review Your Notes

Before and after your study sessions, you should always skim your notes from the recent lesson or topic you studied before starting on a new one. Reviewing your notes once before going to bed will also help to cement new knowledge into your brain.

You can get the most out of your notes by breaking up the topic you’re learning into shorter tasks. Spending over an hour reviewing your notes is counter-productive but shorter review blocks are a powerful learning strategy.

Finally, if you have piles of notes and are struggling to find the ones you need – you can digitize your notes! This resource tells you how to digitize your notes in 3 easy steps .

#9 – Use Technology Wisely During Class

If you are using a laptop for note-taking in class, then make sure you are still able to focus and pay attention. Laptops and phones can bring down your grade . Don’t believe us? This Michigan State University article shows why surfing the web in class is a bad idea.

You don’t want to get into the habit of surfing the web, checking social media, or using your smartphone in class. if you’re frequently checking the internet or your smartphone when studying, then you’re likely to sabotage your own learning efforts in the classroom.

#10 – Consider Joining a Study Group

Social learners should consider forming a study group. Study groups help you to remember and learn more effectively because you can ask questions to clarify difficult points. You also get the added advantage of discovering how others learned a subject or solved a problem.

One of the best benefits of joining a study group is that you will be able to ask, discuss, debate , and quiz each other on the topics at hand. You could even keep your study group online if traveling to one spot won’t work well for everyone.

In order to find study groups that will work for your needs; find people as dedicated as you are. You don’t want to study with a group that isn’t devoted and willing to work hard.

The study group's numbers shouldn’t be too big, or else it becomes more of a party. Having around 6 people in a group allows you all to benefit without it becoming distracting and counter-productive.

Exchange contact details or establish a means of communicating and decide on a location to host your study group. You will have to organize the group to fit everyone’s schedule to get the most benefit.

The most important thing is creating the logistics of the group – you meet up at the same place and have a reliable schedule. You should also determine how you’re going to communicate (you could use Slack, Whatsapp, etc) this keeps everyone in the loop and makes it easier to meet up.

The best study groups are not a competition. Some members of the group might pick up things faster than others, but this is an opportunity to demonstrate your own learning and fill in any gaps in your knowledge.

#11 – Ask for Help

There are plenty of resources available for anyone who might be stuck. It’s never a bad idea to ask for help and assistance and make the most out of the resources that are there to provide it.

Professors are usually more than willing to help any student who is struggling with a topic ( as it shows an honest effort to learn what they’re teaching). They can also help to explain a subject in a different light if your notes aren’t making sense.

You can also leverage the help of a tutor if you’re struggling with a specific topic. A tutor can help you in a one-to-one setting – which is especially valuable as they can cater the topic you’re struggling with to your learning style.

#12 – Get Enough Sleep and Rest

Studying when you’re sleepy is ineffective. If your body is telling you that you’re tired, then have a nap or go to bed early.

A good night’s sleep will help you understand and remember information better. It is also much less stressful to take an exam or attend a class when you feel well rested and alert.

If you’re finding that you are getting stressed out or tired, reflect back on your study schedule and priorities.

Make sure that you have dedicated time for rest and de-stressing. You can’t be a study machine 24/7 and taking some time away from learning is a great way to relax your mind.

Good study habits require you to be fresh and sharp. A good night's sleep is far more effective than a night cramming for a test could ever be.

If you want some handy tips this guide will cover 17 healthy ways to fall asleep earlier .

#13 – Create a Daily Study Timetable

Make sure you track your grades along with your study hours and lesson notes to see if your new studying techniques are helping.

If you find that it is not helpful, then it’s time to re-prioritize your schedule to fit in more time for studying and re-examine your goals for success:

• Remember that throughout school, work and life, you will always need to be learning something.
• When you have set up the proper studying techniques and note-taking skills, you are giving yourself one of the greatest gifts possible, the ability to learn.
• Don’t burn yourself out studying too hard all of the time. It’s important to find a little time to relax, as being too stressed can negatively impact your learning.
• Don’t forget to play to your strengths, and explore different methods of learning if one thing isn’t working for you. The most important thing is to never give up.

Final Thoughts on Good Study Habits

You can use your morning routine to set yourself up for success in your learning efforts. When you start applying and practicing your study habits you will see a big difference in the quality of your learning.

Take a look at this study plan schedule strategy if you want to beat procrastination and make any learning project much easier.

Looking for more ways to improve your learning ability? Here's our post on how to learn anything fast!

Finally, if you want a PROVEN method to mastering your next test, then take this short masterclass on how to study for exams and getting excellent grades .

25 thoughts on “13 Effective Study Habit Examples: Improve Your Study Routine”

Reading this post I noticed some underlying principles, useful in developing good habits in any area: -know thyself -break your goals into disciplines -focus -take a proper care of your body -track your results and tune your methods

Hi SJ – good stuff, as usual. thanks for the post.

I am a big fan of having a good study routine. Personally, it was one of those little things that have made a big difference, not only to my grades when I was a student, but also later in my life.

In my opinion, the key to success is also to keep the motivation up and focus on intrinsic rewards (rather than extrinsic): the road to mastery, your purpose/mission and achieving the milestones toward your big goal. Tracking your progress is a great way of keeping the focus on your intrinsic motivation.

I just wanted to add one more thing to the section on creating a study routine: make it enjoyable. How? set it up the way you can look forward to it. For instance, I do it in the morning, before my family gets up: and it’s my best time of the day (peak productivity), my ‘me time’, my favorite cup of coffee, and I really enjoy it. I still get up at 5.15am, even though I’m not at the uni anymore. I always find something to learn – I’ve done many MOOCs, and other courses. I don’t HAVE to, but I do it for the joy of learning.

SJ, love your books. Could I get the contact info for your designer (I’ve heard you’re willing to share that.). Also, I do a podcast for traders with about 20,000 listeners and would love to interview you about “waking up happy” and morning routines sometime.

My contact info is rob at robbooker.com

First of all, I would love to do your podcast. It is an honor. Shoot me an email at stevescottsite AT gmail DOT com and we will set up a time that is good for both of us.

Re: Cover Designer: The person I use is Kyle. He charges around $150 for a cover design. If you’d like to use a certain graphic, then you’d need to purchase it off a website (I use iStockPhoto.com for this.) What Kyle provides is the basic, “Kindle-Ready” cover. That means if you need the design converted to a paperback version, that’s something he charges extra for.

This is a great post SJ!

Habit 1 resonated with me so much and because it is very true that each of us have his or her own comfortable learning style. I remember back in high school and college, I used to study for major exams just after midnight. I will eat early and make sure to be in bed by 6 or 7PM. I will sleep until 12AM to 1AM and then get up and study with a cup of coffee right by my side. I love the tranquility of those hours. Place is quiet, except for the sound of barking dogs so I was able to focus.

Thanks for sharing!

That is an interesting way of studying. I also love that quite time when no one is awake. It really is a good time to get things done!

What’s the name of your editor? Can you provide a link? I assume he or she is on elance

I am writing these comments a few dozen times, Idk why but the commenst plugin doesnt approve my website? About the goal topic, I want to add that there is a book titled Goal suck and James Altucher says goals will fail you when themes will help you succeed.

Sorry, comment was sitting in my “approve” queue. Once and a while it wordpress drops people in there, even though they have had approved comments before. I will shoot you an email with editor info shortly.

Goals suck. That is a Matt Stone book. I know that guy. I agree, mostly. Goals are essential and vital, IMO. But spending too much time focused on goals and not enough on doing is a recipe for failure. Like many other things moderation is the key to using them with success.

This is nice and effective post SJ. Thanks a lot.I love to learn and again thanks for the precious 11 study habits.Thanks!!!

I am really very thankful to you for such 11tips for studies.

What are some of the benefits of having a good study timetable and a good time schedule?

Yes, I agree. I’m studying for a public tender in my country. Ihaven’t girlfriend, for I need time. Will be do I doing the right thing? I need help you all. It’s not nice to live without a partner, but i’m trying the impossible. Am I toward the right way? This is my doubt.

See you!!!!!!!

I think it is best to always work on yourself first. The women will come in time, and it is a lot easier to get/keep them with a good job.

I really liked this article, it was really refreshing! You did a great job writing it, and I can tell you did your research. All of these tips have the potential to help you utilize your study time better. However, it is a good idea to try various things until you hit on the exact combination of factors that allow you to develop good study habits and ultimate success in your future.

Good information. I’ve written an article about effective study habits. The techniques of an effective way of studying the lessons are based on cognitive science studies. Maybe the article can add to the information you have here. If you want you can visit http://psychlens.com/effective-study-habits/ . Thanks a lot for sharing this wonderful piece of information.

-Some info that I found helpful, was to not eat a big meal before studying, because it will cause you not to focus. -Something that I will do this year, is use study habits that work for me/I like. For ex: I like visual studying/videos. -a tip of my own, is to use flash cards.

wow this is amazing, things i took for granted or less important are things that are helpful, it changed my mentality toward reading, this is great, thanks for the tips.

I am not good at study and you written a long essay , if I good at study why should i searched for good such kind of tips looking such tips which change my life towards study , please give some good and interactive tips which really helps .

Regards, AJ

Very well written and useful. I like how you distinguish different ways for people because we all are very different.

‘As you can see, visual learners learn best when pictures, images, and spatial understanding is used. Auditory learners prefer using music, sounds or both. Kinesthetic learners prefer a more physical style of learning through using the body, sense of touch and hands. Logical learners desire to use reasoning, logic and systems. Verbal learners will prefer using words in writing and speech. Social learners will prefer to learn with other people or in groups. Solitary learners are able to learn best alone.’ That’s thoughtful.

Thanks for explaining these 7 types of learning to us. Each student will have different statistics. of learning. But the only thing depends is how you learn and effectively implement the same in your learning. One must isolate yourself from all your distractions. One must not waste time too much. And also one must find the best time to study. You gave nice tips.

Wonderful post. These habits are ones that all of us should use but we sometimes forget in the rush of every day work. A great list to keep nearby and remind yourself to slow down and pay attention. Thanks.

Wow! Really great post. The 4th one is really important. When I was a kid, I used to study continuously but after sometimes this is quite difficult for me to remember anything. That’s why I love Pomodoro technique. Study for a while and take 5-10 minute rest.

You also discussed study zone and style of learning. This really important because a learning environment can help us to learn quickly as well as effectively.

Thanks for Sharing!

SJ, I genuinely liked this one. very interesting and of course knowledgeable too.. thank you so much as i am a bit (not a bit ,very very much) lazy . it was good though

keep motivating!!!!!!!!!!!

It’s actually very difficult in this active life to listen news on Television, thus I just use internet for that reason, and get the most recent information.

Comments are closed.

How studying habits can change your life

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Top 10 Study Tips to Study Like a Harvard Student

Adjusting to a demanding college workload might be a challenge, but these 10 study tips can help you stay prepared and focused.

Lian Parsons

The introduction to a new college curriculum can seem overwhelming, but optimizing your study habits can boost your confidence and success both in and out of the classroom. 

Transitioning from high school to the rigor of college studies can be overwhelming for many students, and finding the best way to study with a new course load can seem like a daunting process. 

Effective study methods work because they engage multiple ways of learning. As Jessie Schwab, psychologist and preceptor at the Harvard College Writing Program, points out, we tend to misjudge our own learning. Being able to recite memorized information is not the same as actually retaining it. 

“One thing we know from decades of cognitive science research is that learners are often bad judges of their own learning,” says Schwab. “Memorization seems like learning, but in reality, we probably haven’t deeply processed that information enough for us to remember it days—or even hours—later.”

Planning ahead and finding support along the way are essential to your success in college. This blog will offer study tips and strategies to help you survive (and thrive!) in your first college class. 

1. Don’t Cram! 

It might be tempting to leave all your studying for that big exam up until the last minute, but research suggests that cramming does not improve longer term learning. 

Students may perform well on a test for which they’ve crammed, but that doesn’t mean they’ve truly learned the material, says an article from the American Psychological Association . Instead of cramming, studies have shown that studying with the goal of long-term retention is best for learning overall.   

2. Plan Ahead—and Stick To It! 

Having a study plan with set goals can help you feel more prepared and can give you a roadmap to follow. Schwab said procrastination is one mistake that students often make when transitioning to a university-level course load. 

“Oftentimes, students are used to less intensive workloads in high school, so one of my biggest pieces of advice is don’t cram,” says Schwab. “Set yourself a study schedule ahead of time and stick to it.”

3. Ask for Help

You don’t have to struggle through difficult material on your own. Many students are not used to seeking help while in high school, but seeking extra support is common in college.

As our guide to pursuing a biology major explains, “Be proactive about identifying areas where you need assistance and seek out that assistance immediately. The longer you wait, the more difficult it becomes to catch up.”

There are multiple resources to help you, including your professors, tutors, and fellow classmates. Harvard’s Academic Resource Center offers academic coaching, workshops, peer tutoring, and accountability hours for students to keep you on track.  

4. Use the Buddy System 

Your fellow students are likely going through the same struggles that you are. Reach out to classmates and form a study group to go over material together, brainstorm, and to support each other through challenges.

Having other people to study with means you can explain the material to one another, quiz each other, and build a network you can rely on throughout the rest of the class—and beyond. 

5. Find Your Learning Style

It might take a bit of time (and trial and error!) to figure out what study methods work best for you. There are a variety of ways to test your knowledge beyond simply reviewing your notes or flashcards. 

Schwab recommends trying different strategies through the process of metacognition. Metacognition involves thinking about your own cognitive processes and can help you figure out what study methods are most effective for you. 

Schwab suggests practicing the following steps:

• Before you start to read a new chapter or watch a lecture, review what you already know about the topic and what you’re expecting to learn.
• As you read or listen, take additional notes about new information, such as related topics the material reminds you of or potential connections to other courses. Also note down questions you have.
• Afterward, try to summarize what you’ve learned and seek out answers to your remaining questions. 

Explore summer courses for high school students.

6. Take Breaks

The brain can only absorb so much information at a time. According to the National Institutes of Health , research has shown that taking breaks in between study sessions boosts retention. 

Studies have shown that wakeful rest plays just as important a role as practice in learning a new skill. Rest allows our brains to compress and consolidate memories of what we just practiced. 

Make sure that you are allowing enough time, relaxation, and sleep between study sessions so your brain will be refreshed and ready to accept new information.

7. Cultivate a Productive Space

Where you study can be just as important as how you study. 

Find a space that is free of distractions and has all the materials and supplies you need on hand. Eat a snack and have a water bottle close by so you’re properly fueled for your study session. 

8. Reward Yourself

Studying can be mentally and emotionally exhausting and keeping your stamina up can be challenging.

Studies have shown that giving yourself a reward during your work can increase the enjoyment and interest in a given task.

According to an article for Science Daily , studies have shown small rewards throughout the process can help keep up motivation, rather than saving it all until the end. 

Next time you finish a particularly challenging study session, treat yourself to an ice cream or  an episode of your favorite show.

9. Review, Review, Review

Practicing the information you’ve learned is the best way to retain information. 

Researchers Elizabeth and Robert Bjork have argued that “desirable difficulties” can enhance learning. For example, testing yourself with flashcards is a more difficult process than simply reading a textbook, but will lead to better long-term learning. 

“One common analogy is weightlifting—you have to actually “exercise those muscles” in order to ultimately strengthen your memories,” adds Schwab.

10. Set Specific Goals

Setting specific goals along the way of your studying journey can show how much progress you’ve made. Psychology Today recommends using the SMART method:

• Specific: Set specific goals with an actionable plan, such as “I will study every day between 2 and 4 p.m. at the library.”  
• Measurable: Plan to study a certain number of hours or raise your exam score by a certain percent to give you a measurable benchmark.
• Realistic: It’s important that your goals be realistic so you don’t get discouraged. For example, if you currently study two hours per week, increase the time you spend to three or four hours rather than 10.
• Time-specific: Keep your goals consistent with your academic calendar and your other responsibilities.

Using a handful of these study tips can ensure that you’re getting the most out of the material in your classes and help set you up for success for the rest of your academic career and beyond. 

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About the Author

Lian Parsons is a Boston-based writer and journalist. She is currently a digital content producer at Harvard’s Division of Continuing Education. Her bylines can be found at the Harvard Gazette, Boston Art Review, Radcliffe Magazine, Experience Magazine, and iPondr.

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Study Habits: How and Why to Practice Effective Studying

August 9, 2019

Whether in public or private school, most students encounter the same basic curriculum. Granted, the curriculum has changed over the years , but the fundamentals still apply. Math, language arts, history, geography, and sciences are core subjects. Some students will achieve advanced levels in these topics but all will need to develop effective study habits to achieve their best.

Schools cover core and niche subjects well but don’t always address how to study them. Let’s look at what good study habits are, and how to practice them.

Why are study habits important?

Good study habits help don’t just help in school; they help in professional settings and life in general. Practicing good habits regularly allows you to be your most productive and efficient. Successful students tend to become successful professionals, and this success is often built on well-established habits. The best study habits turn into good habits for any time.

Unfortunately, students do not generally learn study skills in school. With rare exceptions, there are few classes in either public or private schools focused on them. Students are expected to develop these skills on their own. All students develop habits, but many of these habits can be counterproductive. For example, countless parents complain about their students doing homework while watching television. That is a study habit, just not a good one.

Developing good study habits early usually leads to retaining and using these habits throughout life. Middle school and college chemistry students are at different levels, but both can use the same habits to learn the material. A CEO and a high school civics students have different needs, but both need to be organized and focused to reach their goals.

What are the Best Study Habits?

The best study habits include:

• Organization
• Time management
• Developing a personal learning style
• Clear note-taking
• Studying efficiently
• Working effectively with teachers tutors

Success in every part of life requires good organization . Getting and staying organized allows students and adults alike to accomplish tasks efficiently. It’s more than having a tidy desk; it involves tasks like managing multiple work spaces at school, effective record keeping, and clear labeling.

Time Management  is also an excellent habit for both students and professionals. It minimizes stress, errors, and time waste. Time management begins with tools as simple as a calendar or egg timer. Practicing macro (weeks, months) and micro (days, hours, tasks, projects) time management helps students complete tests within the time limit, and project managers track progress on year-long projects.

Developing a personal learning style  is important because everyone learns differently. Some students do best with visual examples. Others prefer dialogue with teachers. Some learn everything they need from reading books straight through. Flashcards, mnemonics, and memory tricks can all help different kinds of learners. Find what works for you, and build your study plan around that.

C lear note-taking is essential. Remember, you’re taking notes so you can reference them while you study later. Make sure you can easily read and understand them. There are different ways to do this , so play around.

Studying efficiently means you can retain, repeat, apply, and synthesize information. Studying efficiently tends to happen when your other good habits are in play. Are you organized and managing your time well? Do you know how you best learn and retain information? Are your notes clear and easy for you to understand?

Finally, working effectively with teachers and tutors  is key to getting the most out of your education. Trust your educators, and trust the process.

How Can I Improve My Study Habits?

It’s never too late to start improving your habits. It takes a conscious effort, self-discipline, and hard work. Most people, adults included, have a difficult time doing this on their own. It’s hard to be constructive and self-critical, and it’s easy to be complacent. Regardless, every person reaches a point in life where it is too challenging to keep track of accomplish your goals without a plan for doing so. We need to keep changing and growing, and good habits help this.

Start by getting familiar with the habits discussed here. Ask yourself: am I already practicing these? How can I be more effective? Take inventory of your answers. Then, think of simple steps and begin practicing them, one at a time. For example, if you need to work on organization, buy or repurpose folders to organize your notes and resources by subject. If you need to improve time management, get a weekly planner that works for you and fill it out at the start of every week. Regular practice is key.

Parents can help too. Parents should collaborate with students, learning about effective study habits, and working to integrate them into daily life. Practicing these habits together helps parents stay involved and informed about student needs and goals. One simple strategy is to have weekly planning sessions, where students and parents discuss their goals, schedule, and what they’re anticipating for the week.

Finally, consider seeing a tutor. Tutors specialize in maximizing study efficiency, and focus on an individual student’s learning needs to develop a personalized study plan. A fundamental part of any good plan comes down to practicing good habits.

To learn more, visit our academic tutoring page.

Practice Makes Permanent

Developing and practicing these habits makes them permanent. The school year often gets interrupted, through scheduled breaks, through the summer, and through snow days. Sometimes, extenuating circumstances shut schools down and require students to study from home. In these gaps, it’s easy for students to fall off their studies and lose the knowledge they gained in school. However, if you practice these skills regularly, it’s much easier to stay on top of your studies, even when school isn’t in session.

These steps will help you develop positive study habits. Think of it as investing in yourself. Each skill takes time to learn but ultimately saves time and energy in the long run. That is what it’s all about: building an efficient and effective process that allows you to accomplish all of your work while opening up time for the fun things in life.

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Chapter 4: Effective Study Habits

Work smarter, not harder: effective studying techniques, developing smart study skills.

At the beginning of the semester, your workload is relatively light. This is the perfect time to brush up on your study skills and establish good habits. When the demands on your time and energy become more intense, you will have a system in place for handling them.  The goal of this section is to help you develop your own method for studying and learning efficiently.

As you work through this section, remember that every student is different. The strategies presented here are techniques that work well for many people; however, you may need to adapt them to develop a system that works well for you personally. If your friend swears by her smartphone, but you hate having to carry extra electronic gadgets around, then using a smartphone will not be the best organizational strategy for you.

Take a moment to consider what techniques have been effective (or ineffective) for you in the past. Which habits from your high school years or your work life could help you succeed now? Which habits might get in your way? What changes might you need to make?

Understanding Your Learning Preferences

To succeed in your post-secondary education—or any situation where you must master new concepts and skills—it helps to know what makes you tick. For decades, educational researchers and organizational psychologists have examined how people take in and assimilate new information, how some people learn differently than others, and what conditions make students and workers most productive. Here are just a few questions to think about:

• What times of day are you most productive?  If your energy peaks early, you might benefit from blocking out early morning time for studying or writing. If you are a night owl, set aside a few evenings a week for schoolwork.
• How much clutter can you handle in your workspace?  Some people work fine at a messy desk and know exactly where to find what they need in their stack of papers; however, most people benefit from maintaining a neat, organized space.
• How well do you juggle potential distractions in your environment?  If you can study at home without being tempted to turn on the television, check your email, fix yourself a snack, and so on, you may make home your workspace. However, if you need a less distracting environment to stay focused, you may be able to find one on campus or in your community.
• Does a little background noise help or hinder your productivity? Some people work better when listening to background music or the low hum of conversation in a coffee shop. Others need total silence.
• When you work with a partner or group, do you stay on task?  A study partner or group can sometimes be invaluable. However, working this way takes extra planning and effort, so be sure to use the time productively. If you find that group study sessions turn into social occasions, you may study better on your own.
• How do you manage stress? Accept that at certain points in the semester, you will feel stressed out. In your day-to-day routine, make time for activities that help you reduce stress, such as exercising, spending time with friends, or just scheduling downtime to relax

Video source: https://youtu.be/Bxv9lf5HjZM

Understanding your Learning Style

For the purposes of this chapter, learning style  refers to the way you prefer to take in new information, by seeing, by listening, or through some other channel. (For more information, see the section on learning styles.)

Most people have one channel that works best for them when it comes to taking in new information. Knowing yours can help you develop strategies for studying, time management, and note taking that work especially well for you.

To begin identifying your learning style, think about how you would go about the process of assembling a piece of furniture. Which of these options sounds most like you?

• You would carefully look over the diagrams in the assembly manual first so you could picture each step in the process.
• You would silently read the directions through, step by step, and then look at the diagrams afterward.
• You would read the directions aloud under your breath. Having someone explain the steps to you would also help.
• You would start putting the pieces together and figure out the process through trial and error, consulting the directions as you worked.

Now read the following explanations of each option in the list above. Again, think about whether each description sounds like you.

• If you chose 1, you may be a visual learner . You understand ideas best when they are presented in a visual format, such as a flow chart, a diagram, or text with clear headings and many photos or illustrations.
• If you chose 2, you may be a verbal learner . You understand ideas best through reading and writing about them and taking detailed notes.
• If you chose 3, you may be an auditory learner . You understand ideas best through listening. You learn well from spoken lectures or books on tape.
• If you chose 4, you may be a kinesthetic learner . You learn best through doing and prefer hands-on activities. In long lectures, fidgeting may help you focus.

Learning Style Strategies

Time Management

Getting Started: Short- and Long-Term Planning

At the beginning of the semester, establishing a daily/weekly routine for when you will study and write can be extremely beneficial. A general guideline is that for every hour spent in class, you should expect to spend another two to three hours on reading, writing, and studying for tests. Therefore, if you are taking a biology course that meets three times a week for an hour at a time, you can expect to spend six to nine hours per week on it outside of class. You will need to budget time for each class just like an employer schedules shifts at work, and you must make that study time a priority.

That may sound like a lot when taking several classes, but if you plan your time carefully, it is manageable. A typical full-time schedule of 15 credit hours translates into 30 to 45 hours per week spent on schoolwork outside of class. All in all, a full-time student would spend about as much time on school each week as an employee spends on work. Balancing school and a job can be more challenging, but still doable.

In addition to setting aside regular work periods, you will need to plan ahead to handle more intense demands, such as studying for exams and writing major papers. At the beginning of the semester, go through your course syllabi and mark all major due dates and exam dates on a calendar. Use a format that you check regularly, such as your smartphone or the calendar feature in your email. (In  Section 1.3 Becoming a Successful Writer , you will learn strategies for planning major writing assignments so you can complete them on time.)

PRO TIP:  The two- to three-hour rule may sound intimidating. However, keep in mind that this is only a rule of thumb. Realistically, some courses will be more challenging than others, and the demands will ebb and flow throughout the semester. You may have trouble-free weeks and stressful weeks. When you schedule your classes, try to balance introductory-level classes with more advanced classes so that your work load stays manageable.

Self-Practice Exercise

Now that you have learned some time management basics, it is time to apply those skills. For this exercise, you will develop a weekly schedule and a semester calendar.

• Working  with  your  class   schedule,   map   out   a   week-‐long  schedule  of  study  time.  Try  to  apply  the  two   to   three-hour   rule.   Be   sure   to   include   any   other   nonnegotiable   responsibilities,   such   as   a   job   or   child   care   duties.
• Use  your  course   syllabi   to   record   exam   dates   and   due   dates   for   major   assignments   in   a   calendar   (paper   or  electronic).   Use   a   star,   highlighting,   or   other   special   marking   to   set   off   any   days   or   weeks   that   look   especially  demanding.

Staying Consistent: Time Management Dos and Do Not’s

Setting up a schedule is easy. Sticking with it, however, may be challenging. A schedule that looked great on paper may prove to be unrealistic. Sometimes, despite students’ best intentions, they end up procrastinating or pulling all-nighters to finish a paper or study for an exam.

Keep in mind, however, that your weekly schedule and semester calendar are time management tools. Like any tool, their effectiveness depends on the user: you. If you leave a tool sitting in the box unused (e.g., you set up your schedule and then forget about it), it will not help you complete the task. And if, for some reason, a particular tool or strategy is not getting the job done, you need to figure out why and maybe try using something else.

With that in mind, read the list of time management dos and don’ts. Keep this list handy as a reference you can use throughout the semester to troubleshoot if you feel like your schoolwork is getting off track.

• Do set aside time to review your schedule and calendar regularly and update or adjust them as needed.
• Do be realistic when you schedule study time. Do not plan to write your paper on Friday night when everyone else is out socializing. When Friday comes, you might end up abandoning your plans and hanging out with your friends instead.
• Do be honest with yourself about where your time goes. Do not fritter away your study time on distractions like email and social networking sites.
• Do accept that occasionally your work may get a little off track. No one is perfect.
• Do accept that sometimes you may not have time for all the fun things you would like to do.
• Do recognize times when you feel overextended. Sometimes you may just need to get through an especially demanding week. However, if you feel exhausted and overworked all the time, you may need to scale back on some of your commitments.
• Do make a plan for handling high-stress periods, such as final exam week. Try to reduce your other commitments during those periods—for instance, by scheduling time off from your job. Build in some time for relaxing activities, too.
• Do be kind to yourself – many students balance school and other important responsibilities (work, family, friends, etc.).  There will be times where you will have to prioritize where your time goes, and that’s okay.

Try Not To:

• Procrastinate on challenging assignments. Instead, break them into smaller, manageable tasks that can be accomplished one at a time.  An assignment calculator can be a useful tool for helping to get yourself organized.
• Fall into the trap of “all or nothing” thinking. (e.g. “There is no way I can fit in a three-hour study session today, so I will just wait until the weekend.”) Extended periods of free time are hard to come by, so find ways to use small blocks of time productively. For instance, if you have a free half hour between classes, use it to preview a chapter or brainstorm ideas for an essay.

One of the best things you can do for yourself as a student is realize that we  all procrastinate at some point.  Knowing your procrastination style can help you to recognize and change bad habits.  Look at the chart below and see if you can identify your procrastination style (you might use more than one!):

The  key  to  managing  your  time  effectively  is  consistency.  Completing  the  following  tasks  will  help  you  stay  on  track  throughout  the  semester.

• Establish  regular  times  to  “check  in”  with  yourself  to  identify  and  prioritize  tasks  and  plan  how  to  accomplish  them.  Many  people  find  it  is  best  to  set  aside  a  few  minutes  for  this  each  day  and  to  take  some  time  to  plan  at  the  beginning  of  each  week.
• For  the  next  two  weeks,  focus  on  consistently  using  whatever  time  management  system  you  have  set  up.  Check  in  with  yourself  daily  and  weekly,  stick  to  your  schedule,  and  take  note  of  anything  that  interferes.  At  the  end  of  the  two  weeks,  review  your  schedule  and  determine  whether  you  need  to  adjust  it.

studying & Note-Taking Methods

Summarizing  is one of the most effective means of studying and making sure that you’ve learned the concept/skill.  Can you go through the steps mentally?  Can you describe or explain it to someone else in your own words?   This is the process of summarizing and synthesizing information.

When summarizing material from a source, you zero in on the main points and restate them concisely in your own words. This technique is appropriate when only the major ideas are relevant to your paper or when you need to simplify complex information into a few key points for your readers. To create a summary, consider the following points:

• Review the source material as you summarize it.
• Identify the main idea and restate it as concisely as you can—preferably in one sentence. Depending on your purpose, you may also add another sentence or two condensing any important details or examples.
• Check your summary to make sure it is accurate and complete.
• Make a careful record of where you found the information because you will need to include the reference and citation if you choose to use the information in an essay. It is much easier to do this when you are creating the summary and taking notes than having to go back and hunt for the information later. Guessing where you think you got it from is not good enough.

Summaries and Abstracts

When you read many academic journal articles, you will notice there is an abstract before the article starts: this is a summary of the article’s contents. Be careful when you are summarizing an article to not depend too much on the abstract as it is already a condensed version of the content. The author of the abstract identified the main points from his or her perspective; these may not match your own purpose or your own idea of what is important. What may also happen if you try to summarize the abstract is you will probably end up replacing some words with synonyms and not changing the overall ideas into your own words because the ideas are already summarized, and it is difficult to make them more generalized. You have to read the entire source or section of the source and determine for yourself what the key and supporting ideas are.

PRO TIP: A summary or abstract of a reading passage is one-tenth to one-quarter the length of the original passage, written in your own words. The criteria for a summary are that it:

• Is similar to an outline but in complete sentences and can stand as an independent piece of writing
• Includes only the main points and key details
• Is valuable because it is the surest way to measure your understanding
• Helps you remember because you must attend carefully to what you read, organize your thoughts, and write them out to make it meaningful to you (This is absolutely necessary when you cannot mark a book because it belongs to someone else.)
• Challenges you to be concise in your writing while providing balanced coverage of the main points.
• Challenges you to paraphrase or use your own words and avoid using too many quotations.
• Is important to remain objective because you are giving the author’s views not your own.

Article:  Assessing the Efficacy of Low – Carbohydrate Diets

Adrienne Howell, Ph.D. (2010)

Over the past few years, a number of clinical studies have explored whether high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets are more effective for weight loss than other frequently recommended diet plans, such as diets that drastically curtail fat intake (Pritikin) or that emphasize consuming lean meats, grains, vegetables, and a moderate amount of unsaturated fats (the Mediterranean diet). A 2009 study found that obese teenagers who followed a low-carbohydrate diet lost an average of 15.6 kilograms over a six-month period, whereas teenagers following a low-fat diet or a Mediterranean diet lost an average of 11.1 kilograms and 9.3 kilograms respectively. Two 2010 studies that measured weight loss for obese adults following these same three diet plans found similar results. Over three months, subjects on the low-carbohydrate diet plan lost anywhere from four to six kilograms more than subjects who followed other diet plans.

In three recent studies, researchers compared outcomes for obese subjects who followed either a low-carbohydrate diet, a low-fat diet, or a Mediterranean diet and found that subjects following a low-carbohydrate diet lost more weight in the same time (Howell, 2010).

What Is aNNOTATION?

Most students already know how to annotate.  When you make notes in the margins and highlight your textbooks, you are annotating that source.

When you take notes in the margins of your readings, highlight key ideas, underline passages, etc, you are  annotating a source.  Annotations are a valuable research tool because they allow you to capture your first ideas and impressions of a text, as well as enable you to find key information again quickly without having to re-read the entire text.

When annotating, you should be looking for several things:

• Key ideas, terms, and concepts
• Words or concepts that you don’t understand yet
• Points that are being made with which you (dis)agree
• Pieces of evidence that would be useful for your own paper
• Inconsistent information with what you have read elsewhere
• Parts of the text you may wish to return to later in the research process

PRO TIP: LEARN TO USE YOUR HIGHLIGHTER PROPERLY!

Many students – if not most – do not use highlighters effectively.   Highlighting is a  visual cue that is intended to help you recall or find information quickly.  If you are the person who highlights 3/4 of the page or chapter, you are not using the tool effectively.

When studying, you should have multiple colours of highlighter with you and designate certain colours for certain things.  For example:

DEFINITIONS MAIN IDEAS UNCLEAR CONCEPTS KEY EVIDENCE OR POINTS

This strategy has a few benefits:

• It forces you to slow down to switch colours, giving you more time to process what you’re reading
• It makes you read actively in order to determine how the information should be classified (for example: is this a definition or a  main idea ?)
• It creates a study system for you that is consistent and easier to follow

Video source: https://youtu.be/eVajQPuRmk8

• Read  the  following  passage  and  use  a  note-‐taking  method  to  identify  the  main  points.
• Compose  a  sentence  summarizing  the  paragraph’s  main  points.

Several  factors  about  the  environment  influence  our  behaviour.  First,  temperature  can  influence  us  greatly.  We  seem  to  feel  best when  the  temperature  is  in  the  high  teens  to  low  20s.  If  it  is  too  hot  or  cold,  we  have  trouble  concentrating.  Lighting  also  influences how  we  function.  A  dark  lecture  hall  may  interfere  with  the  lecture,  or  a  bright  nightclub  might  spoil  romantic  conversation.  Finally, our  behaviour  is  affected  by  colour.  Some  colours  make  us  feel  a  peaceful  while  others  are  exciting.  If  you  wanted  a  quiet  room  in which  to  study,  for  example,  you  would  not  paint  it  bright  orange  or  red.

Collaboration:  Please  share  with  a  classmate  and  compare  your  answers.  

Here  are  possible  answers:  

Key  points:  

Environmental  factors  influence  behaviour:

• Temperature:  extremes  make  focus  difficult
• Lighting:  inappropriate  lighting  is  disorientating
• Colour:  colour  affects  relaxation

Summary  sentence:   Three  environmental  influences  that  impact  human  behaviour  include  temperature,  as  extreme  fluctuations  make it  difficult  to  focus;  lighting,  which  can  affect  our  ability  to  engage  with  different  environments;  and  colour,  which  affects  our  mood.

Passage  taken  from:  Ueland,  B.  (2006).  Becoming  a  Master  Student.  Boston,  MA  :  Houghton  Mifflin  College  Div.,  p.  121.

• Read  the  passage.   
• Highlight  or  underline  necessary  information  (hint:  there  are  five  important  ideas).   
• Write  your  summary.    

Most people drink orange juice and eat oranges because they are said to be rich in vitamin C. There are also other foods that are rich in vitamin C. It is found in citrus fruits and vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, cabbage, cauliflower, and carrots.

Vitamin C is important to our health. Do you really know how essential this nutrient is to our health and well-being? Our body needs to heal itself. Vitamin C can repair and prevent damage to the cells in our body and heal wounds. It also keeps our teeth and gums healthy. That is not all. It protects our body from infections such as colds and flu and also helps us to get better faster when we have these infections. That is why a lot of people drink orange juice and take vitamin C tablets every day. This wonderful vitamin is also good for our heart. It protects the linings of the arteries, which are the blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood. In other words, it offers protection against heart disease.

If we do not get enough vitamin C, which means we are not eating enough food that contains this vitamin, it can lead to serious diseases. Lack of vitamin C can lead to scurvy, which causes swollen gums, cheeks, fingers, hands, toes, and feet. In serious conditions, it can lead to bleeding from wounds, loss of teeth, and opening up of wounds. Therefore, make sure you have enough vitamin C in your diet.

Exercise  taken  from:   http://www.scribd.com/doc/98238709/Form-‐Three-‐Summary-‐Writing-‐Exercise

Annotating, note making, or note taking is a matter of personal preference in terms of style. The most important thing is to do something . Again we stress that reading is like a dialogue with an author. The author wrote this material. Pretend you are actually talking to the author.

• Do not let an idea pass without noting it.
• Do not let an ambiguity go by without questioning it.
• Do not let a term slip away if context does not help you understand it; look it up!
• Engage and you will both understand and remember.

PRO TIP: Put small checks in pencil where you would normally underline. When you finish a section, look back and see what you really need to mark. (If you check over 50 percent of the page, you probably are marking to go back and learn later versus thinking about what is really important to learn now!)

Use consistent symbols to visually help you identify what is happening on the page:

• Circle central themes or write at the beginning of the section if it is not directly stated.
• [Bracket] main points.
• Underline key words or phrases for significant details.
• Put numbers 1, 2, 3 for items listed.
• Put square brackets or highlights for key terms when the definition follows.
• Use stars (*), question marks (?), or diagrams in the margins to show relevance.
• Use key word outlines in the margins for highlighting.
• Write questions in the margin that test your memory of what is written right there.
• Use blank spaces indicating the number of ideas to be remembered, forcing you to test yourself versus just rereading.

General Note-Taking Guidelines

• Before class, quickly review your notes from the previous class and the assigned reading. Fixing key terms and concepts in your mind will help you stay focused and pick out the important points during the lecture.
• Come prepared with paper, pens, highlighters, textbooks, and any important handouts.
• Come to class with a positive attitude and a readiness to learn. During class, make a point of concentrating. Ask questions if you need to. Be an active participant.
• During class, capture important ideas as concisely as you can. Use words or phrases instead of full sentences, and abbreviate when possible.
• Visually organize your notes into main topics, subtopics, and supporting points, and show the relationships between ideas. Leave space if necessary so you can add more details under important topics or subtopics.
• If your professor gives you permission to do so, you could consider taking pictures of the notes on the board with a mobile device or audio recording the lecture.
• Ideas that the instructor repeats frequently or points out as key ideas
• Ideas the instructor lists on a whiteboard or transparency
• Details, facts, explanations, and lists that develop main points
• Review your notes regularly throughout the semester, not just before exams.

Organizing Ideas in Your Notes

A good note-taking system needs to help you differentiate among major points, related subtopics, and supporting details. It visually represents the connections between ideas. Finally, to be effective, your note-taking system must allow you to record and organize information fairly quickly. Although some students like to create detailed, formal outlines or concept maps when they read, these may not be good strategies for class notes because spoken lectures may not allow time for to create them.

Instead, focus on recording content simply and quickly to create organized, legible notes. Try one of the following techniques.

Modified Outline Format

A modified outline format uses indented spacing to show the hierarchy of ideas without including roman numerals, lettering, and so forth. Just use a dash or bullet to signify each new point unless your instructor specifically presents a numbered list of items.

The first example shows Crystal’s notes from a developmental psychology class about an important theorist in this field. Notice how the line for the main topic is all the way to the left. Subtopics are indented, and supporting details are indented one level further. Crystal also used abbreviations for terms like development  and  example .

If you are a visual learner, you may prefer to use a more graphic format for notes, such as a mind map. The next example shows how Crystal’s lecture notes could be set up differently. Although the format is different, the content and organization are the same.

If the content of a lecture falls into a predictable, well organized pattern, you might choose to use a chart or table to record your notes. This system works best when you already know, either before class or at the beginning of class, which categories you should include. The next figure shows how this system might be used.

The Cornell Note-Taking System

In addition to the general techniques already described, you might find it useful to practise a specific strategy known as the Cornell note-taking system. This popular format makes it easy not only to organize information clearly but also to note key terms and summarize content.

To use the Cornell system, begin by setting up the page with these components:

• The course name and lecture date at the top of the page
• A narrow column (about two inches) at the left side of the page
• A wide column (about five to six inches) on the right side of the page
• A space of a few lines marked off at the bottom of the page

During the lecture, you record notes in the wide column. You can do so using the traditional modified outline format or a more visual format if you prefer.

Then, as soon as possible after the lecture, review your notes and identify key terms. Jot these down in the narrow left-hand column. You can use this column as a study aid by covering the notes on the right-hand side, reviewing the key terms, and trying to recall as much as you can about them so that you can mentally restate the main points of the lecture. Uncover the notes on the right to check your understanding. Finally, use the space at the bottom of the page to summarize each page of notes in a few sentences.

Over  the  next  few  weeks,  establish  a  note-‐taking  system  that  works  for  you.

• If  you  are  not  already  doing  so,  try  using  one  of  the  aforementioned  techniques.  (Remember  that  the  Cornell  system  can  be  combined  with  other  note-‐taking  formats.)
• It  can  take  some  trial  and  error  to  find  a  note-‐taking  system  that  works  for  you.  If  you  find  that  you  are  struggling  to  keep  up  with  lectures,  consider  whether  you  need  to  switch  to  a  different  format  or  be  more  careful  about  distinguishing  key  concepts  from  unimportant  details.
• If  you  find  that  you  are  having  trouble  taking  notes  effectively,  set  up  an  appointment  with  your  school’s  academic  resource  centre.

Using Online Study Tools

1. guided study session videos.

One excellent tool to help with accountability is guided study session videos.  Much like guided meditation, these videos can help you stay on track and give you some accountability.  It’s like a study partner that can’t distract you!

Video source: https://youtu.be/reRYtjr1BNo

2. The Pomodoro Technique

Much like a Guided Study Session, the Pomodoro Study Session plays ambient noise and displays a timer.  Every 25 minutes, you take a break from whatever you’re doing.  During this time you can stretch, check your phone, etc.  Here’s a neat  Harry Potter themed one!

Video source: https://youtu.be/SkmH9CsMqOo

3. Browser Lockdown Tools

Are you the person who is always getting distracted while studying?  You might consider a  website blocker (list of some available here) that will prohibit you from accessing certain sites for a certain length of time.  You tell it your guilty procrastination sites (Reddit? Instagram? Discord?) and how long you want them locked.

And maybe leave your phone/tablet in another room… 😏

4. Find a Notetaking Program/System

There are a variety of free notetaking systems and programs available.  Many students prefer the ease of a program like  Google Docs , but there are others such as  Evernote , and OneNote .

5. Looking into Assistive Technology

Assistive technology has been used by students with disabilities for a long time; however, these tools are equally valuable for all students!  Not all of them are free, but they can be a game changer for some people:

Digital Highlighters:  these cool gadgets allow you to scan hardcopy texts with a pen and it will transfer the text into a digital format on your computer/tablet.  Some popular options are Scanmarker and IrisPen

Text-to-Speech Pens/Reader Pens: Similar to digital highlighters, these pens also have the ability to read the text that you scan out loud.  Some of them also feature dictionaries built into the pen.  They are often a tool of choice for students who are learning English as an additional language and for those with dyslexia, AD(H)D, etc.  The most popular option is the C-Pen

Digital Notebooks and Smart Pens:  Digital notebooks are an excellent hybrid of physical note taking with technological storage.  One of the more popular options is the Rocektbook , which is reusable and allows you to write notes and scan them to a notetaking program using a phone app.  Smart Pens, like the LiveScribe Pen allow you to record audio, take pictures, and transfer handwritten notes to a note taking program.

Text-to-Speech Readers: this type of technology has become more popular in recent years.  These programs read digital texts aloud to you, and many are available online for free, but you may wish to start with one like NaturalReader to see if it’s helpful.

Speech-to-Text Programs:   the opposite of a text-to-speech reader and exactly what it sounds like, Speech-to-Text programs allow you to dictate to the computer using a microphone and what you say will be converted into text.  This website has a list of popular free programs, broken down by OS.

Using Available ACADEMIC Support Resources

One reason students sometimes find post-secondary courses overwhelming is that they do not know about, or are reluctant to use, the resources available to them. There is help available; your student fees help pay for resources that can help in many ways, such as a health centre or tutoring service. If you need help, consider asking for help from any of the following:

• Your instructor:  If you are making an honest effort but still struggling with a particular course, set a time to meet with your instructor and discuss what you can do to improve. He or she may be able to shed light on a confusing concept or give you strategies to catch up.
• Your academic advisor or program coordinator: Many institutions assign students an academic advisor or program coordinator who can help you choose courses and ensure that you fulfill degree and major requirements.
• The academic resource centre:  These centres offer a variety of services, which may range from general coaching in study skills to tutoring for specific courses. Find out what is offered at your school and use the services that you need.
• The writing centre ( Sheridan Tutoring Services ): These centres employ tutors to help you manage your writing assignments. They will not write or edit your paper for you, but they can help you through the stages of the writing process. (In some schools, the writing centre is part of the academic resource centre.)
• The career resource centre:  Visit the career resource centre for guidance in choosing a career path, developing a resumé, and finding and applying for jobs.
• Sheridan Counselling services : Sheridan offers counselling services on campus for free. Use these services if you need help coping with a difficult personal situation or managing depression, anxiety, or other problems.

Students sometimes neglect to use available resources due to limited time, unwillingness to admit there is a problem, or embarrassment about needing to ask for help. Unfortunately, ignoring a problem usually makes it harder to cope with later on. Waiting until the end of the semester may also mean fewer resources are available, since many other students are also seeking last minute help.

Writing for Academic and Professional Contexts: An Introduction Copyright © 2023 by Sheridan College is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

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How to study better: 11 techniques to improve your study habits

Table of Contents

Learn more about different study methods and study techniques below, including practice tests and memorization, and maximize your study time.

There are a lot of learners who are looking for a way to maximize their retention as they study in the same amount of time. While flashcards are an effective study habit for a lot of people, there are others who are looking for a way to think outside the box. Regardless of whether you are in high school or college, you can find a way to study better with a few tips. Learn more about different study methods and study techniques below, including practice tests and memorization, and maximize your study time.

Find a good place to study

One of the first study tips that you need to follow is that you must find a good place to study. Regardless of whether you are reading, rereading or practicing math problems, you must find a quiet study space. Some high school and college students prefer a coffee shop, while other people like to handle schoolwork in the library. Figure out what type of environment works best for you, and place yourself in that study spot when you work.

Avoid distractions from social media

Social media is a major distraction for a lot of people, and it can derail your study schedule and study skills rapidly. Although a five-minute break at intervals, sometimes known as the Pomodoro Technique, can be an effective way to maintain productivity , you need to avoid last minute panic by staying away from social media as you study. You might even want to consider placing a blocker on all of your devices with an internet connection that can prevent you from accessing social media while you study.

Ignore your phone

If you want to incorporate good time management into your study strategies, you should stay away from your phone. If you have a big test or final exams coming up, make sure that you turn off push notifications on your phone. If you stay away from your phone while studying, you can focus all of your mental energy on the task at hand, stay on top of your study schedule and avoid all nighters. Ignoring your phone is an integral part of how to study effectively.

Maintain focus with the help of an app

If you want to build good study habits, you might want to use an app to help you. There are plenty of apps out there. For example, you might want an app that can help you with note-taking. Or, you might want an app that can help you create solid mind maps. Think about whether you are an auditory, visual or tactile learner. Then, find an app that can cater your study methods to your specific learning style.

Take a break for self-care

Although procrastination is a major problem for students at all levels, research shows that taking study breaks from time to time can help you improve the quality of your study. It can also foster the creativity that allows you to write in your own words. As you organize your study environment, make sure you have a study plan that allows you to study smarter, not just harder. A short break every few hours can be helpful, but you need to make sure that you balance your study obligations with your desire to take a break from time to time. Then, make sure you are productive during that break. Get some exercise. Get a quick bite to eat. Meditate. Find something productive to do that will help you freshen up when you return to your studies.

Organize your notes

Regardless of whether you are an auditory or visual learner, you need to organize your notes. There are plenty of ways you can improve your organization and maximize the effectiveness of your notes. Highlighting, underlining, color-coding and using study tabs can all be helpful. Find a way to keep your notes organized as you go. That way, you will spend more time studying and less time looking for certain documents.

Join or create a study group

You might want to consider developing a study group. Lots of people learn better when information is explained in another way by their peers or teachers. Plus, if you study in a group, you can hold yourself accountable because you will want to stay on top of your studies to avoid letting down your peers. Think about whether a study group is right for you.

Use aromatherapy, plants and music as focus tools

Think about how to improve your focus. You might want to try aromatherapy, fresh plants or even music. Make sure the music isn’t too loud or distracting. Consider exercising right before studying as well. That way, you release neurotransmitters that can help you focus better.

Be sure to review

Too many people wait until the night before a major test to start studying. That is not the right approach to take. You need to review regularly to help you not only learn the material but also retain it. Set up a review schedule of various topics to ensure you retain the information.

Know your most effective learning style

How do you study best? Are you an auditory learner, a visual learner or a tactile learner? Focus on creating a study plan that can help you learn in a way that allows you to best grasp the information. You might need to explore a new study method.

Make studying part of your daily routine

If you really want to study better, you need to make studying a part of your daily routine. You might want to review material in the morning when you wake up or perhaps before you go to bed at night. If you focus on building concepts on top of one another through daily review, you can get the most out of your studies.

Speechify wants you to succeed!

If you want to succeed, put Speechify to work for you. Speechify is a program that can take text files of all types and convert them into audio files you can listen to from just about anywhere. Speechify is also compatible with all major platforms including Google Chrome , Microsoft Windows, macOS, iOS and numerous other operating systems. It is available on both desktop and mobile devices.

Some of the top features of Speechify include:

• You can customize the voice to meet your needs by changing the pitch, volume, tone and numerous other features.
• With the premium version , you get access to instant translation across dozens of languages.
• You can increase the reading speed to 9x normal speaking speed. That way, you can get through your work faster.
• You can highlight the text on the screen to follow along with the program as it goes.
• Speechify is also a great program for people with disabilities, including visual and learning disabilities. This is because it presents an audio learning format without requiring someone to read text on a screen. Speechify can play an integral role in your study habits, so rely on Speechify to study smarter.

Some of the most common questions learners ask about studying and information retention include:

What is the best method to study?

There are a few methods you can use. You might be interested in spaced practice that can help you improve your retention, or you might be interested in retrieval practice that focuses on information recall. Many people also like the SQ3R method, which is a great technique for reading comprehension . On the other hand, the most efficient method is to use Speechify, which can help you convert your text files into audio files that you access from just about anywhere.

How can I improve my study?

If you want to improve your study habits, you need to focus on the right strategies. You need to have a study schedule you follow. Consider studying with a group if you are worried about falling behind. You should also reduce all distractions when you study, including social media. Finally, think about using Speechify to listen to information while on the go. That way, you can multitask and retain more information.

What are 3 study tips?

There are a few key study tips you should consider. First, make sure you study in the right location. Do you study best in your room? Or, would you rather go to the library or a coffee shop? Second, make sure that you get plenty of sleep, particularly before a major test. You need your brain to function well. Third, get the most out of your time. With Speechify, you can get through your study guides, research, documents, and notes faster because you can listen to your files faster than you can read them .

How can I improve my memory and study skills?

There are a few ways that you can improve your memory and study skills. Reviewing regularly, instead of trying to cram the night before a major test, can help you retain more information. You should also try to link topics together with a mind map. Instead of rote memorization, focus on understanding how various topics link together. Then, you can apply the information and learn it more effectively. Finally, seeing the information in multiple ways can also help to improve your memory. With Speechify, you can listen to your information and read it, as the text is highlighted on the screen, helping you not just learn but retain the material as well.

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Cliff Weitzman

Cliff Weitzman is a dyslexia advocate and the CEO and founder of Speechify, the #1 text-to-speech app in the world, totaling over 100,000 5-star reviews and ranking first place in the App Store for the News & Magazines category. In 2017, Weitzman was named to the Forbes 30 under 30 list for his work making the internet more accessible to people with learning disabilities. Cliff Weitzman has been featured in EdSurge, Inc., PC Mag, Entrepreneur, Mashable, among other leading outlets.

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How to Create Good Study Habits for Exams

Master's Degree, Education, University of California Los Angeles

Last Updated: February 26, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Ted Dorsey, MA and by wikiHow staff writer, Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA . Ted Dorsey is a Test Prep Tutor, author, and founder of Tutor Ted, an SAT and ACT tutoring service based in Southern California. Ted earned a perfect score on the SAT (1600) and PSAT (240) in high school. Since then, he has earned perfect scores on the ACT (36), SAT Subject Test in Literature (800), and SAT Subject Test in Math Level 2 (800). He has a BA in English from Princeton University and a MA in Education from the University of California, Los Angeles. There are 25 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 1,471,778 times.

With good study habits, you'll be able to reduce your stress and take tests and exams with confidence. While building lasting study habits might seem hard at first, soon your new good habits will be part of your routine. You can create good study habits for exams by first setting up a study routine and learning your course material. To better your study habits, you can employ good studying strategies to stay on track and use your learning style to study better.

Setting Your Routine

• Daily study sessions are needed to keep the material fresh in your mind and to give yourself time to make connections between concepts.
• If you have other homework, you may decide to do it during your designated study time since it will help you better grasp the material.

• Avoid sitting in front of the television or around a busy part of your home.
• Some people like to study in the library or coffee shop, but this may not work for you if you're easily distracted by movement or noises.

• Keep your cell phone away from you, as it will distract you. Only check your emails or messages after studying, during break time.
• Charge your cell phone while you're studying. Your cell phone will need the extra boost, and you'll be happy that your phone is away from you.

• You can also use a wall planner and to-do lists to keep track of assignments and what you plan to study each day. [7] X Research source

• It's okay for your plan to be a general outline. Don't let your planning waste the time you plan to use for studying.

Learning the Material

• If you can, highlight the important parts of the texts.
• Try to recollect if your teacher has mentioned any important part of the text would be coming for the exam. Also try to remember any tricks or mnemonics taught by teacher to remember any important formulas or text.
• Research anything you don't understand and look up confusing vocabulary. Make yourself a flashcard on the spot so that you'll have it for later.

• It's crucial that you review the information in the weeks and days leading up to the exam. The more you revisit the information, the more it will become internalized and easier to remember. [14] X Research source

• Check with your teacher or professor to make sure that it's okay to record the lecture.
• Don't use this as an excuse to not take notes during class. You should still take notes to help yourself learn the material.

• Try using index cards to make your flashcards or cut up a piece of paper.
• Additionally, you could use an online tool like quizlet or Kahoot to create flashcards and practice quizzes.

• For a multiple-choice exam, make lists and tables, know the differences between concepts and words, and know-how topics are related to each other.
• For a fill-in-the-blank exam, focus on your notes because most teachers take their questions from the notes they provide. You should expect your teacher to remove an important word or words from a sentence, such as a term, date, phrase, or historical figure. [17] X Research source
• For an essay or short answer exam, pay attention to what your instructor emphasized in class. Write out what you know about this topic and do additional research if necessary. Use the syllabus, study guide, and textbook summary of the material to make a list of possible questions. Create a study list for each possible essay question.

Helping Yourself Study Better

• Some people benefit from shorter, more frequent breaks.
• You should also take a break when you're feeling frustrated.
• If you were studying using a computer or other electronic device, don't use devices during your breaks. Your eyes will thank you! [19] X Research source

• Many schools offer free tutoring from teachers or peers.

• Look for a study group at your school.
• Visit the local or school library to find postings about study groups on the bulletin board.
• Ask your friends to form a study group with you.

• When you're getting started, attach your reward to your behavior, such as studying each day, rather than the outcome, which would be your grade.
• Ask your parents or roommate to help you with the rewards. They may be able to give you an allowance for meeting your study goals, or they could hold onto the candy and give you a piece when you earn it.

Using Your Learning Style to Study Better

• Other great options are to color code your notes, use a highlighter, draw diagrams, or sketch out what you're learning. [25] X Research source

• You can also try reading your notes out loud or explaining what you're learning aloud to someone else. [28] X Research source
• Other great options include role-playing, making a model, or creating a representation of what you're learning. [30] X Research source

How Can I Cope With Test-Taking Anxiety?

Sample Study Schedules

Supercharge Your Studying with this Expert Series

Expert Q&A

Reader Videos

• Don't wait until the last minute to start studying because you won't be able to learn all of the material in time. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0
• Allow yourself a few minutes to settle into a zone of intense concentration when approaching your reading or writing academic assignments. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Always highlight the main points in your book so you can know what is important in the whole chapter. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1

• Remember that it's just one test and you're getting prepared, so don't stress yourself out too much. Thanks Helpful 33 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au/study-and-training/help-with-study/how-to-study-better/top-10-study-tips
• ↑ Ted Coopersmith, MBA. Academic Tutor. Expert Interview. 10 July 2020.
• ↑ https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/learning-at-home/homework-study-skills/how-to-help-your-teen-develop-good-study-habits
• ↑ https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/decreasing-digital-distractions/
• ↑ https://www.stetson.edu/administration/academic-success/media/STUDY%20SCHEDULE.pdf
• ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/school-help-teens.html
• ↑ Ted Dorsey, MA. Academic Tutor. Expert Interview. 11 December 2019.
• ↑ https://lsc.cornell.edu/how-to-study/studying-for-and-taking-exams/guidelines-for-creating-a-study-schedule/
• ↑ https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/reading-textbooks-effectively/
• ↑ https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/effective-note-taking-in-class/
• ↑ https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/studying-101-study-smarter-not-harder/
• ↑ https://usm.maine.edu/agile/using-flashcards
• ↑ https://www.edutopia.org/article/5-research-backed-studying-techniques
• ↑ https://bookunitsteacher.com/wp/?p=3448
• ↑ https://www.topuniversities.com/student-info/health-and-support/exam-preparation-ten-study-tips
• ↑ https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/2020/apr/is-extra-screen-time-causing-your-headaches/
• ↑ https://www.oxfordlearning.com/benefits-of-tutoring/
• ↑ https://www.fnu.edu/10-reasons-form-study-group/
• ↑ https://medicine.llu.edu/academics/resources/brain-based-techniques-retention-information
• ↑ https://www.washington.edu/doit/e-community-activity-developing-study-habits
• ↑ https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1112894.pdf
• ↑ https://www.llcc.edu/center-academic-success/helpful-resources/characteristics-learning-styles
• ↑ https://ace.fsu.edu/sites/g/files/upcbnu296/files/Study_Strategies_by_Learning_Styles.pdf
• ↑ https://www.wgu.edu/blog/what-tactile-learning2008.html
• ↑ https://education.alberta.ca/media/482311/is.pdf

About This Article

To create good study habits, set aside some time every day to study, which will help you learn the material better than if you were to cram the night before your test. When you sit down to study, put away your phone and make sure there aren't any distractions so you can focus on the material. Use flash cards, your notes from class, and practice tests to help you memorize the information. Also, give yourself a 5-minute break halfway through your study sessions so you don't get overwhelmed. For more studying tips, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Speech on Good Habits

Good habits are like invisible keys that unlock a healthier, happier life. They shape your daily routine and, in turn, your future.

You might not see the effects immediately, but over time, they can bring significant changes. So, let’s explore the world of good habits together.

1-minute Speech on Good Habits

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I stand before you today to speak about an essential aspect of our lives – ‘Good Habits’. We all have heard about the saying, “Habits make a man”, and it’s indeed very true. Our habits define us, shape our personality, and influence our behavior.

Good habits are like the building blocks of our character. They are the small practices, the routines we follow in our day-to-day life. They range from waking up early, maintaining personal hygiene, eating healthy, to saying a simple ‘Thank You’. These habits, when consistently followed, can bring about a significant positive change in our lives.

However, forming good habits is not an easy task. It requires a strong will, determination, and consistency. But, once ingrained, these habits become an integral part of us. They not only enhance our personalities but also lead us towards a successful life.

Let’s take a simple example. If we make a habit of reading daily, gradually, we will notice an improvement in our vocabulary, language skills, and overall knowledge. Another example could be regular exercise. It not only keeps us physically fit but also mentally alert and active.

In conclusion, we must understand that good habits are the stepping stones to success. It’s the small steps that we take daily that lead us to big achievements in life. So let’s start today, take one good habit and try to follow it consistently. Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day. It’s the consistency that matters.

Also check:

• Essay on Good Habits
• 10-lines on Good Habits

2-minute Speech on Good Habits

I warmly welcome you all to this session where we are going to discuss a topic of universal significance – ‘Good Habits’. Habits are the building blocks of our lives, and they determine the quality and direction of our lives to a great extent.

We’ve all heard the saying, “We are what we repeatedly do,” and this holds true when it comes to our habits. Good habits are a stepping stone to success and fulfillment in life. They are not formed in a day or two, but rather require consistent efforts, patience, and commitment.

Let me now paint a clearer picture of what I mean by good habits. Eating a balanced healthy diet, waking up early, exercising regularly, reading books, being punctual, maintaining personal hygiene, being kind and respectful to others, these are all examples of good habits.

Eating a balanced diet keeps your body healthy and fit. It provides the necessary nutrients to your body, helping it to function properly. Waking up early gives you extra hours to plan your day and get a head start on your tasks. Regular exercise strengthens your body, helps maintain weight, and improves your mental health. Reading books expands your knowledge, enhances your vocabulary, and broadens your perspective on different topics.

Now, you might wonder, how can we develop good habits? It’s simple. Start small. If you want to start eating healthy, don’t just overhaul your diet in one day. Start by including one healthy meal in your day. Once you’re comfortable with that, gradually make more changes. Similarly, if you want to start waking up early, don’t set your alarm for 5 am right away. Set it 15 minutes earlier than your usual time and gradually adjust it earlier.

Remember, consistency is key. You can’t expect to form a habit if you’re not consistent. Be patient. It might seem difficult in the beginning, but trust me, it gets easier with time. And most importantly, stay committed. Don’t give up when things get tough.

Let me also emphasize that good habits are not just about doing certain things regularly, but also about having a positive mindset. Being grateful for what we have, focusing on the positive aspects of life, and being kind to ourselves and others are also good habits that contribute to our overall well-being.

In conclusion, good habits are crucial for a successful and fulfilling life. They help us improve ourselves, achieve our goals, and lead a healthy and happy life. They might be challenging to form, but the benefits they bring are worth the effort. So, let’s make a conscious effort to develop good habits, and let’s start today. After all, our future is a reflection of the habits we form today.

Thank you for your attention. Let’s strive to make our lives better, one good habit at a time.

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Largest Compilation of Structured Essays and Exams

Speech on Good Habits (857 words)

March 5, 2018 by Study Mentor Leave a Comment

Greetings to one and all present over here. I request you all to bear with me as I present in front of you my speech on the topic ‘Good Habits’.

I urge you to pardon me for any mistake that I commit knowingly or unknowingly while presenting my thoughts.  

Good habits. What are good habits? And why it is needed? Have you ever reflected on these questions?

Well, Google defines good habits as a behaviour that is beneficial to one’s physical or mental health, often linked to a high level of discipline and self-control.

In simpler words we can state it as the regular works to be done by an individual which will not harm or affect his mental and physical health, but in turn will benefit him and make a better person out of him.  

A person is known by the character that he projects in the society. In a society you have to literally ‘earn’ respect.

And that can be done only when you are a disciplined person which good habits. Only when you establish yourself as a self-righteous disciplined person, only then will the society take you seriously.

Otherwise, you will remain as an incongruous, unimportant piece of the big mass of such people about whom nobody ever bothers.

In India this number is high, since in maximum parts the literacy rate is low, hence the people do not give much importance to good habits.

They indulge in rather bad habits such as – drinking too much alcohol, talking loudly in public, talking on the phone while driving, spitting on walls, doing toilet out in the open and many more.  

Hence, we should all start cultivating good habits at a young age. Otherwise, those children will face humiliation in their later life for their inappropriate habits and methods.

Here is a list of some good habits to start with. There are some basic habits which one should develop to lead a healthy life:-  

• Going to bed on time . Minimum eight hours of sleep is necessary for proper digestion.  

Remember the age-old phrase “ early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise. “?  

Doing regular exercises – Exercises are very important to keep our body in good working condition. Exercise in the early morning is the best therapy one can possibly get.  

Eating healthy food – Food regulates our digestion. Our eating habits speak a lot about us. It tells how much importance we give to our body and mind. Hence, good food habits are a must.  

Brushing twice a day – A healthy smile not only will make you happy but will make others happy too. Hence, to have a good smile you need healthy teeth.

To have healthy teeth you need to brush twice a day. Brushing twice a day removes all the germ attack that occurs in our teeth all throughout the night.  

Do not keep any pending work – Not keeping any pending work or not being lazy is the most important habit that parents should teach children in recent days.

Often laziness leads to work build-up, which in later days forms a burden, sometimes this burden is so much that it becomes hard to finish. Hence, we should all give up on our lazy selves and start completing what is required of us on time.  

Table manners – Table manners speaks about a person’s upbringing. People without proper upbringing do not know how to behave sophisticatedly when they are eating at a table with others.

Often such people are laughed at in high-class societies. Hence, to save oneself from embarrassment it is important that we should learn good table manners.    

Cleaning up mess – Cleaning up what we have made dirty is our responsibility. This is an important teaching especially for children.

Children usually create a mess but forget to clear it up. They should be taught to clean up their own litter so that when they grow up they don’t get embarrassed in any public place.  

Being responsible with money – Money matters are such which trouble even the elders. Money is a very conditional item.

Today it’s there, tomorrow it’s not there. Hence, it should be used very judiciously when it’s there with us. Saving money is also an art. Children should be made to learn its importance.  

Sharing is caring – When we share we feel good. When we share with others it shows that we care for them.  

Not littering public spaces – Public spaces are meant for everyone and not for an individual alone. Littering public spaces means you are breaching the rights of other people as well.  

Respecting women and elders – Respecting women and elders not just for gender or age but for humanity.  

These habits and some other habits can together build up a good citizen. Remember a good foundation only leads to a good building which stands erect for lifetime.

Hence, from childhood only we should start cultivating good habits to have a better tomorrow.

Not only this we should help others who lack such knowledge and encourage them to give up on their bad habits and adopts a better means to lead a healthy life.  

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Study Habits That Can Improve Grades and Performance

• M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
• B.A., History, Armstrong State University

It is never too late to develop great study habits . If you're starting a new school year, or you just want to improve your grades and school performance, take a look at this list of good habits and start making some changes in your routine. You'll find that it does not take that long to form a new habit .

Write Down Every Assignment

The most logical place to write down your assignments in a ​ planner , but you might prefer to keep a to-do list in a simple notebook or in your smartphone notepad. It doesn't really matter what tool you use, but it is essential to your success that you write down every single assignment, due date, test date, and task.

Remember to Bring Your Homework to School

It sounds simple enough, but many F's come from students forgetting to bring a perfectly good paper to school. To avoid forgetting your homework, establish a strong homework routine with a special homework station where you work each night. Get in the habit of putting your homework where it belongs right after you finish it, whether this is in a special folder on your desk or in your backpack. Prepare every night before bed.

Communicate With Your Teacher

Every successful relationship is built upon clear communication. A student-teacher relationship is no different. Miscommunication is another one of those factors that can cause bad grades, despite good efforts on your part. At the end of the day, make sure you understand every assignment that's expected of you. Imagine getting a bad grade on a five-page paper because you didn't understand the difference between an expository essay and a personal essay .

Be sure to ask questions and find out what format you should use when you write a paper or what type of questions might appear on your history exam. The more questions you ask, the more prepared you'll be.

Organize With Color

Devise your own color-coding system to keep your assignments and your thoughts organized. Select a single color for each class (like science or history) and use that color for your folder, highlighters, sticky notes, and pens. Color-coding is also a tool to use when conducting research. For example, always keep several colors of sticky flags on hand when you're reading a book for school. Assign a specific color for every topic of interest. Place a flag on a page containing information that you will need to study or to cite.

Establish a Home Study Zone

Create a specified study place. After all, if you can’t concentrate, you certainly can’t expect to learn very well. Students are different: Some need a completely quiet room free from interruptions when they study, but others actually study better when listening to quiet music in the background or taking several breaks.

Find a place to study that fits your specific personality and learning style . Then stock your study space with school supplies that will help you avoid last-minute interruptions to go find needed materials.

Prepare Yourself for Test Days

You know that it's important to study for tests, but there are other things you should consider in addition to the actual material that the exam will cover. For example, you might show up for the test and find the room is freezing cold. For many students, this would cause enough of a distraction to interrupt concentration. That leads to bad choices and incorrect answers. Plan ahead for heat or cold by layering your clothing.

Or you might be the kind of test-taker who spends so much time on one essay question that you don't have enough time to finish the exam. Prevent this problem by bringing a watch and being mindful of time management.

Know Your Learning Style

Many students struggle in a subject without understanding why. Sometimes this is because they don't understand how to study in a way that matches their brain style. Auditory learners , for example, are those who learn best through hearing things. Visual learners , by contrast, retain more information when they use visual aids, and tactile learners benefit by doing hands-on projects.

Examine and evaluate your learning style and decide how you can improve your study habits by tapping into your personal strengths.

Take Fabulous Notes

There are a few tricks to taking fabulous notes that really help when it comes to studying. If you are a visual person, make as many doodles on your paper as you can—useful doodles, that is. As soon as you realize that one topic relates to another, comes before another, is the opposite of another, or has any kind of connection to another, draw a picture that makes sense to you. Sometimes the information will not sink in until and unless you see it in an image.

There are also certain code words to look for in a lecture that can indicate that your teacher is giving you the relevance or the context of an event. Learn to recognize keywords and phrases that your teacher deems important.

Conquer Procrastination

When you procrastinate, you're gambling that nothing will go wrong at the last minute—but in the real world, things do go wrong. Imagine it's the night before a final exam and you have a flat tire, an allergy attack, a lost book, or a family emergency that keeps you from studying. At some point, you will pay a big price for putting things off.

Battle procrastination by recognizing the feisty little voice that lives inside of you. It tells you that it would be more fun to play a game, eat, or watch TV when you know better. Don’t listen to that voice. Instead, conquer the task at hand without delay.

Take Care of Yourself

Some of your personal habits might be affecting your grades. Are you feeling tired, achy, or bored when it comes to homework time? You can change your grades by practicing a few healthy homework habits. Change the way you feel by taking better care of your mind and your body.

For example, between text messaging, playing video games, surfing the internet, and using social media, students are using their hand muscles in new ways, and they're growing increasingly susceptible to the hazards of repetitive stress injury. Find out how to avoid pain in your hands and neck by learning about ergonomics and changing the way you sit at your computer.

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FNU Advising 11 Techniques to Improve Your Study Habits

11 Techniques to Improve Your Study Habits

When it comes to developing good study habits, there is a method to all of the madness. The type of study habits that you’ve come to practice in high school may not work so well in college. However, you can certainly build on those practices to make your study habits more disciplined—because you’ll need to! In college, you’ll have more responsibility, but you’ll also have more independence. For first-time college students, this could be a challenge to balance. That’s why Florida National University (FNU) wants to help prepare all of our students for how they can improve their study habits with these 11 helpful techniques.

Study Habit #1. Find a good studying spot.

This is important. You need to be in an environment with little to no distractions—an environment that will aid in keeping you focused on your assignments. The library has always been a reliable place to get some real academic work done, but if you prefer someplace else, just make sure that you’re set up for success. Your university may have other places on campus that will provide you with a nice little studying spot. While cafeterias may be quite busy, there are some university campus cafeterias that tend to have just enough silence for students to study while they grab a bite to eat.

You might get campus fever and decide to venture outside of your university to get some work done. Many students find little coffee shops with Wi-Fi that will let them sit there all day long for a buying customer. Outdoor parks and recreational centers, even the public library might be a nice change of scenery.

Even study lighting is also important. If you want to preserve your eyesight and maximize your time and energy, then choose lighting that will not cause eye strain or fatigue so you can keep your study session effective at any time of the day.

Establish rules when you’re in your study zone. Let people living with you know that when your door is closed, it means you do not want to be disturbed. Try not to respond to phone calls or texts, this will break your concentration and you will lose focus.

Let’s not forget about your home. No matter the size of your apartment or house, we recommend dedicating a little office space just for studying—away from any distractions.

Study Habit #2. Avoid social media.

Speaking of distractions, nothing can sap away your time for a good 20-30 minutes like good old social media! Emails used to be the necessary evil in order to keep life going, but now people are communicating through social media platforms more than email or even talking on the phone! As a result, it’s pretty common to have a browser tab open just for social media. The problem with this is the alerts! As much as you may try to ignore it, you won’t be satisfied until you follow through with the alert—an alert that will most likely require a reply! In all likelihood, it will end up being a conversation that could’ve waited an hour—and now you’ve just added another 20-30 minutes to your study time! Congratulations!

Study Habit #3. Stay Away From Your Phone.

Distractions also include avoiding your phone. The best thing you can do is either put your phone on silent, turn off the alerts and flip it over so that you can’t even SEE them, or just turn the thing off! If it helps, place the phone out of sight so that you’re not even tempted to check your messages. The world can wait. Your education is a priority and anyone who’s in your circle of friends should understand this. If you are absolutely adamant about keeping your phone nearby in case of an emergency, then allow yourself some study breaks so that you can dedicate a certain amount of time just for checking your alerts and messages.

Study Habit #4. No Willpower? Enlist the Help of an App.

Apps like Focus Booster and AntiSocial have your back!

AntiSocial blocks your access to a selection of websites with a timer that you select.

Focus Booster is a mobile phone app that relies on the Pomodoro Technique, where you work intensively for 25 minutes and then you break for five minutes. The app also includes productivity reports and revenue charts.

Study Habit #5. Take a break and take care of yourself.

Talking a little more about taking breaks, this really shouldn’t be an option. College is hard work, and just like any other kind of job, you deserve a break. Don’t be so hard on yourself. Working until the wee hours of the morning to complete an assignment might be great for that class, but it’s not for you or other academic courses. You MUST take care of yourself in order to give your academic career the attention it deserves. You’re paying to get an education—to learn. Running yourself into the ground without allowing time for your body and mind to rest is unacceptable.

• Ophthalmologists will warn you that you need to remember to blink when working on a computer screen to save your sight. Give your eyes a rest by gazing into the horizon, preferably out of a window with natural light. Did you know that your eyes need exercise, too? Especially in today’s world where we are reading everything at such close distances. Keep your head in a neutral position and with just your eyeballs, look at the ceiling or a tree and try to focus. Go from corner to corner, focusing up, then do the same for the floor. Roll your eyes.
• Your hands also need a break: learn to use the mouse with your other hand, put the keyboard in the most comfortable position, which is actually on your lap. Take a moment to stretch your wrists and fingers.
• Blueberries

And don’t forget to sleep and reboot!

Study Habit #6. Organize lectures notes.

For some students, the best way to organize notes is to ask if you can record your professors’ lectures for a better understanding of the lesson. The best way to do this is to transcribe the recorded lecture notes. This way, you can rewind what you didn’t understand. It also behooves you to revisit those notes—while the material is fresh in your mind and rewrite them in a style that’s more legible and review-friendly. On the day of the exam, you’ll be glad you did.

Fact: it has been proven that information retention is higher when you go over your notes and repeat the lesson after the class is over. Rewriting your lecture notes is going to be one of the most brilliant study techniques to practice. Rewriting will help you remember the context better and reorganizing them in nice outline forces you to comprehend the lesson.

Study Habit #7. Join or create a study group.

Finding fellow students who are struggling to understand the coursework can be comforting. However, joining or creating a study group can be helpful in many ways.  Guaranteed someone in your study group can help you through a certain assignment you’re struggling with and you’ll be able to do the same. It’s all about helping each other succeed!

Study Habit #8. Aromatherapy, plants and music.

Science is always tinkering with nature, but in this case, in a simple way, only studying the effects of essential oils and plants on concentration, focus, and memory.

Some studies have shown that lavender has a good effect on memory, however, others have shown that its effect is negligible and in fact, lavender oil and teas are used to relax the body in preparation for sleep. So lavender may calm and center yourself, but for focus, sandalwood and frankincense (also known as Boswellia) have shown much more promising results in most studies.

Plants, in general, have a natural, comforting effect and in their presence, humans tend to have a higher pain tolerance and faster recoveries from hospitalizations. Music, also improves brain function, can help you focus and also eases the pain. Learn more about the benefits of studying with music.

Study Habit #9. Leave time for the last-minute review.

Here are where well-organized lecture notes come into play. Always, always leave time for the last-minute review. Here, we’re exercising the tried and true memory game. This is a technique that most students apply as one study habit. That’s just impossible for the amount of college work you’ll be taking on, but it can work quite well as a last-minute review—only if you have good notes!

Better still, ff you can pair reviewing your notes with a good night’s sleep, then you will significantly improve your ability to retain more information. Just know that studying when you’re sleepy is ineffective. If your body is telling you that you’re tired, then have a nap or go to bed early. A good night’s sleep is another technique to use that will help you understand and remember information better.

If you’re finding that you are getting stressed out or tired, reflect back on your study schedule and priorities. Make sure that you have dedicated time for rest and de-stressing activities as well.

Study Habit #10. Understand Your Best Learning Style

It’s important to know that there are many different styles of learning and each person will retain information better in different ways.

• Visual learners who learn best when pictures, images, and spatial understanding is used.
• Auditory learners who prefer using music, sounds or both.
• Kinesthetic learners actually use a more physical style of learning through using the body, sense of touch and hands.
• Logical learners need to use reasoning, logic, and systems.
• Verbal learners will prefer using words in writing and speech.
• Social learners will thrive in learning with other people or in groups.
• Solitary learners are able to learn best when alone.

Think about which style of learning works best for you, and it will help you determine how to study, where to study when to study and other important factors like what study aids you should use and be aware of, and knowing what things may distract you while you are trying to study.

Study Habit #11. Make Study Time a Part of Your Daily Routine

If cramming all of your study time into a few long days isn’t working for you then it’s time to try something new and less stressful. What you do every day is more important than what you do occasionally, so make time for studying every single day, with or without exams coming up.

Consistency is key and once you start getting into good study habits, so make it a routine that you will be able to maintain throughout the school year.

When it becomes part of your schedule, you don’t need to find the time, you’ve made time for your study sessions each month. Don’t forget to also check your schedule for the week or month, and consider your personal commitments: chores, must-attend activities, and appointments. All you need to do now is to stay committed to your new study schedule.

Make studying your priority and place these sessions when you’re at your peak performance times to make them extra effective. Some people work best in the mornings, and others, at night. Experiment with this and don’t assume that because you wake early you should study early, but instead try morning, noon, and night to see which is best.

FNU Want You To Succeed!

Try to learn and not just memorize and remember, keep it simple. Don’t try to get fancy with your study notes. They are for your eyes only and won’t be graded. The goal is to help you get a high-scoring grade. We hope this quick checklist will alleviate some anxiety you might have for managing college work. If you have questions about this or any of our degree programs, contact an FNU advisor at any of our campus locations today!

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Parent's Academy › Parenting Tips › Homeschooling Preschool › A Guide to Developing Effective Study Habits

A Guide to Developing Effective Study Habits

Daniela mcvicker.

Educational Blogger , New York , New York

Jan 24, 2022 As a parent, it’s your job to help your child develop good habits from the earliest age. You need to teach them how to behave, deal with problems, process their emotions, and so much more. Creating effective study habits should be one of your goals. It’s important for your children to learn how to study effectively and apply it to their entire education experience.

In This Article

1. develop a study area, 2. remove distractions, 3. create a study calendar, 4. set a specific study time, 5. plan for effective study breaks, 6. deal with the hardest study tasks first, 7. stick to your plan.

• 8. Provide Tools and Resources 

Luckily, we’re here to help you achieve it. Below, you’ll find a guide on how to help your child develop good study habits. Take a look at each of the steps and try teaching your child one at a time.

It’s very important that you create a designated study area for your child. Even as a preschooler, he needs to have his special study space.

A study area should be in their room and consist of a desk, a comfortable chair, and all the school supply your child needs.

Placing it all in one place will help your child:

• Have better control over the study process, and
• Learn to be tidy and responsible for his things.

Don’t let your child carry his things all over the house and do his assignments wherever he gets the chance.

When it’s time to do homework, color, learn a song, or do any sort of studying, remove any distraction that might bother your child.

Teach them to always:

• Turn off the TV,
• Remove any unnecessary item from the desk,
• Leave their smartphone in the other room (if they have one).

Fewer distractions mean more hard work and better results. Help your child realize it and adopt this good study habit.

A study calendar is a great asset to the process of studying effectively. Even if your child is still in kindergarten , you should teach them well from the very start.

Here’s what to do:

• Take a larger piece of paper and write “Study Calendar” at the top,
• Write down the goals and assignments your child has,
• Together, make a plan on when to do them,
• Write it all down.

For all those parents who are creating a study calendar for the first time, you can check out these elementary students’ websites . They can help you write a template calendar and use it for all your child’s future plans. 

In time, your child will add new entries on their own and take charge of their school obligations. Teach them to write it all down, plan for the next day, and thus achieve their study goals easier.

Another great study habit that you should try and transfer to your child is setting a specific time of the day for studying.

This will help them organize their day better and not develop procrastination habits.

So, suggest your child to:

• Choose a time of day that is designed for studying,
• Respect that time every day.

For example, once they come from preschool, they should have a healthy meal, get some rest, and do their studying.

After that, they have the rest of the day to play and have fun.

Study breaks are important, especially as your child grows older and has more studying to do every day. An effective study break can make all the difference in the study process and make it much more enjoyable and successful.

Teach your child to recognize when it’s time for a break and use it wisely:

• Go outside,
• Play with the dog,
• Ride their bike,
• Take a swim,
• Play some music.

If they learn how to rest their brain and recharge their batteries, they’ll have a much better study session every day.

Your child needs to learn how to prioritize their study tasks. 

Developing this study habit will save them time and effort. The most complicated and hardest tasks should be completed first, and here’s why:

• You need to most energy for them,
• All the other tasks will seem even easier to complete.

Tell your child to always think about the difficulty level of each task and get the hardest one over with first.

Teaching your child responsibility is another very important segment in the process of adopting good study habits.

It’s easy to create a study plan and strategize with your child about the things he should or shouldn’t do. But the most important thing is to actually stick to the study schedule.

Help your child to:

• Stay responsible,
• Realize the benefits of sticking to the plan.

They need to understand why it’s so important to stay on track and keep up with their goals and scheduled tasks.

8. Provide Tools and Resources 

Finally, to help your child improve each study session, you should help them find the right tools and resources to use.

That includes:

• Online exercises,
• A study buddy,
• Helpful videos and tutorials.

You can find all kinds of tools for different subjects and types of assignments. Help your child do better work, and they’ll be thankful you thought them to be resourceful.

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Final Thoughts

Adopting good study habits needs to start from the earliest age. It takes some preparation and strategizing at first, but soon your child will be able to study without any pressure or tension. Use the tips we’ve shared above and create effective, healthy study habits with your child. Teach them how to study better, and you’ll teach them a major life lesson they’ll be using for a long time.

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The author’s views are entirely his or her own and may not necessarily reflect the views of Blub Blub Inc. All content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgement, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

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English Essay on Good Study Habits, English Essay-Paragraph-Speech for Class 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 Students.

Good Study Habits

Good study habits are essential if you wish to obtain above average grades and score well in examinations. I realized this some time back and decided to change my method of studying. Earlier I had a haphazard way of doing so. My notes were scattered here and there, my table was always in a mess, and I could never find a book when I needed it. So the first thing I did was to organize my text-books, notebooks and stationery. Now I do not have to rummage wildly in my drawer for a pen when I need it.

I then proceeded to make a time-table for myself, allotting a certain number of hours for all the subjects, devoting more time to those in which I needed more practice. Earlier, when I studied, I sat in a dimly lit room with the television set turned on or the music system blaring away, labouring under the delusion that this would help me to concentrate better. I was wrong once again and realized this when I sat and studied in pin-drop silence.

In a house full of people it is not always possible to do this, so the best time to tackle your books is early morning or late at night. I find early morning more conducive, for my mind is fresh and alert at that time; moreover, I do not need artificial light to study.

I have also included a system of achievement and reward for myself. I set a specific goal on reaching which, I promise myself half-an-hour of television watching, a chat with a friend over the telephone, a soft drink or fifteen minutes of listening to music.

With my old study habits, I did not give myself enough time to prepare for an examination. Now, however, I study for a fixed time every day, so I am under no pressure at the end of the term. I have finally managed to do away with the last-minute panic. Not only have my marks improved with my new method of studying, I have gained confidence too.

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Learning Good Study Habits

Many of the tips for success for online students are the same as those for students in an onsite classroom. Consider asking your school’s student council to take on a study tips project. Following a few simple study tips can help students effectively learn new concepts and theories. There have been numerous published tips students can use as a guide for good study habits.

A good way to stay organized is to use folders so you child can keep his/her assignments until needed and it is a great way of staying organized. Once children reach the grades where homework and tests are part of the curriculum, there are many things parents can do to encourage good study habits. An effective way to study is to study before and while you do the homework. A little amount of homework may help elementary school students build study habits. Being organized and having homework routines are the most important things in helping your child develop good study habits for life.

All learning, however, is a process which settles into certain steps. Students with learning problems, however, may still have generally inefficient and ineffective study habits and skills. Becoming aware of your learning style will help you to understand why you sometimes get frustrated with common study methods.

Effective study habits are a very import part of the learning process. Good study habits are all about keeping to a daily routine and giving all subjects equal treatment. If your study habits are weak, take a “study skills” course or have someone show you good study habits. The problem is that those high school study habits are hard to shake. Hard work and good study habits are assets that should be nurtured. Motivation and study habits are obviously crucial as well. Good habits are important for all students to protect investments of time and money and to achieve educational goals. After that experience your study habits are permanently altered, this will help your own preparation as you start teaching and last a lifetime. The main priorities are class attendance, time management, and great studying habits are necessary workings for an academic success.

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Home » Blog » General » The Role of Habits in Speech: A Comprehensive Guide

The Role of Habits in Speech: A Comprehensive Guide

Speech is an essential aspect of our daily lives. It allows us to communicate, express our thoughts and emotions, and connect with others. However, many people may not realize the significant role that habits play in speech development and overall communication skills. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the concept of habits and their impact on speech. Whether you are a parent, educator, or someone interested in improving your own speech, this guide will provide valuable insights and strategies to help you develop and maintain good speech habits.

Understanding Habits

Before we delve into the role of habits in speech, let’s first define what habits are. Habits are automatic behaviors that we perform regularly, often without conscious thought. They are formed through repetition and reinforcement, and they play a crucial role in shaping our actions and behaviors.

In the context of speech, habits refer to the patterns and routines we develop in our vocal and articulatory systems. These habits can either support or hinder our ability to communicate effectively. Understanding how habits are formed and their impact on speech development is essential for identifying and addressing any potential issues.

The Impact of Habits on Speech

Good habits can have a positive impact on speech, leading to improved articulation, fluency, and vocal clarity. On the other hand, bad habits can impede speech development and lead to difficulties such as articulation problems, stuttering, and voice disorders.

Positive impact of good habits on speech

Developing good speech habits can have several benefits:

• Improved articulation and pronunciation: Good habits help us produce clear and accurate speech sounds, making our words more intelligible to others.
• Enhanced fluency and rhythm: Good habits contribute to smooth and fluent speech, allowing for natural pauses, phrasing, and intonation.
• Increased vocal clarity and volume: Good habits promote proper breath support and vocal production, resulting in a clear and resonant voice.

Negative impact of bad habits on speech

Conversely, bad habits can have detrimental effects on speech:

• Articulation difficulties: Bad habits, such as incorrect tongue placement or mouth posture, can lead to unclear speech and difficulty producing certain sounds.
• Stuttering and disfluencies: Certain habits, like rapid or irregular breathing patterns, can contribute to stuttering or other speech disfluencies.
• Voice disorders and hoarseness: Poor vocal hygiene habits, such as excessive throat clearing or misuse of the vocal folds, can result in voice disorders and hoarseness.

Identifying and Assessing Habits in Speech

Recognizing and assessing habits in speech is crucial for understanding the underlying factors contributing to speech difficulties. Here are some common habits that can affect speech:

• Mouth posture and tongue placement: The position of the tongue and the posture of the mouth can significantly impact speech clarity and articulation.
• Breathing patterns: Proper breathing is essential for speech production. Irregular or shallow breathing habits can affect fluency and vocal quality.
• Vocal hygiene habits: Vocal hygiene refers to practices that promote vocal health, such as avoiding excessive throat clearing or speaking loudly in noisy environments.

Assessing habits in speech can be done through observation and analysis. Paying attention to a person’s speech patterns, articulation, and vocal quality can provide valuable insights into their habits. Additionally, speech assessments and evaluations conducted by a speech-language pathologist can offer a more in-depth understanding of an individual’s speech habits and any areas that may require intervention.

Strategies for Developing Good Speech Habits

Developing good speech habits requires consistent practice and targeted interventions. Here are some strategies that can help:

Speech therapy techniques

Working with a speech-language pathologist can provide valuable guidance and support in developing good speech habits. Some techniques commonly used in speech therapy include:

• Articulation exercises: These exercises focus on improving speech sound production and clarity.
• Breathing and vocal exercises: Techniques that promote proper breath support and vocal production.
• Oral motor exercises: Activities that target the muscles involved in speech production, such as tongue and lip movements.

Incorporating habits into daily routines

Developing good speech habits requires consistency and integration into daily routines. Here are some strategies to consider:

• Setting goals and creating a habit plan: Clearly define the speech habits you want to develop and create a plan to incorporate them into your daily life.
• Practicing speech habits in various contexts: Practice your speech habits in different environments and situations to generalize them effectively.
• Seeking support from professionals and loved ones: Engage the help of a speech-language pathologist and enlist the support of your family and friends to stay motivated and accountable.

Breaking Bad Speech Habits

If you have identified bad speech habits, it is essential to address them to improve your communication skills. Here are some steps to take:

Understanding the underlying causes

Identify the underlying factors contributing to your bad speech habits. This may involve self-reflection, seeking professional guidance, or conducting a thorough assessment of your speech patterns.

Targeted interventions and therapy approaches

Work with a speech-language pathologist who can provide targeted interventions and therapy approaches tailored to your specific needs. They can guide you through exercises and techniques to break bad habits and develop new, more effective speech patterns.

Consistency and persistence in habit change

Breaking bad speech habits requires consistent effort and persistence. It takes time to replace old habits with new ones, so be patient and stay committed to the process.

Maintaining Good Speech Habits

Once you have developed good speech habits, it is crucial to maintain them to ensure long-term success. Here are some strategies to help you maintain good speech habits:

Importance of ongoing practice and reinforcement

Regular practice is essential for maintaining good speech habits. Make speech exercises and drills a part of your daily routine to reinforce the habits you have developed.

Strategies for maintaining good speech habits

Here are some strategies to help you maintain good speech habits:

• Self-monitoring and self-correction: Be aware of your speech patterns and correct any errors or deviations from your desired habits.
• Regular speech exercises and drills: Continue practicing speech exercises and drills to reinforce good habits and prevent the reemergence of bad habits.
• Seeking periodic check-ins with a speech-language pathologist: Schedule periodic appointments with a speech-language pathologist to ensure that your speech habits are still on track and address any concerns or challenges that may arise.

Habits play a significant role in speech development and overall communication skills. Developing good speech habits can lead to improved articulation, fluency, and vocal clarity, while bad habits can impede speech and lead to various difficulties. By understanding the impact of habits on speech, identifying and assessing them, and implementing strategies for developing and maintaining good habits, individuals can enhance their communication skills and overall quality of life. If you need further guidance or support in developing good speech habits, consider seeking professional help from a speech-language pathologist. Start your EverydaySpeech Free trial today and take the first step towards improving your speech habits.

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Experts Reveal the Keys to Successful Study Habits

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The best way to approach learning is to realize it’s an active process. You need to ask questions, make personal connections to the material, and review information. Complete your assigned readings before class so you have an idea of what to expect. When you take notes, focus on the main points. You can always go back to the professor for more details. Form study groups and meet regularly to discuss the information. Talk about how the concepts relate to your life, a character in a movie, a song on the radio, an assignment from another class. The more connections you can make, the better. You’re creating multiple pathways in your brain so that when it comes time to use that material, you’ll have no problem remembering it!

I think most importantly it is important to be a critical learner. What I mean by this is that when you read course material or are involved in any part of the learning process in the course, that you reflect on the material from your own perspective and experience in life. As I noted in question two, we all can learn from one another, and what this means for me is that we take all academic information in with a respectful and critical eye.

When you're learning, it's important to be productive and focused. Students can accomplish this by scheduling daily tasks in a to-do list. Break down work into 15 minute time slots. Each time you've accomplished an item, you'll feel rewarded, which will boost your motivation forward.

Never sit in the back of class thinking that you can passively learn. Though a lot of major universities have enormous class sizes, create study groups where you can debate course topics. When someone challenges your opinion or what you held to be true, you have to have the knowledge to defend that. A lot of that knowledge stems from research that you do and that ends up being your strength and helps to cement that information in your mind. If you can't do that, taking good notes and practicing what you learned helps. When I learned about operant conditioning in undergrad, I spent the next week performing conditioning experiments on my family!

Given the amount of information one has to learn, memorization is inevitable. However, memorization is easier if the student can find a way to apply or relate the information to their own lives or to people they know. Elaborating on and relating to the information will make the information much more relatable and easier to understand.

When I am in a learning environment I totally immerse myself into the new space, attempting to learn as much as I can and utilize various resources in order to receive various perspectives. I also ask questions for clarity, and finally, I take the concept and apply it to my world, this always makes the concept and/or new information come alive and real for me.

In a learning environment, the best learning habits for students are to be good listeners. There is much to be learned from professors and peers, and students need to develop the skill of asking challenging questions to both professors and peers. A well-read and prepared student is paramount.

Self care. It's easy to get focused on memorizing the material and completing papers, which is important. But unless you eat and sleep well, and have some time for enjoyment and stepping away, it will be difficult to endure the academic and clinical journey.

Ultimately, your study habits will reflect your personal capabilities and past experiences. The point is to never stop looking for superior ways to do something. If it works don’t fix it; but if it’s merely adequate, consider replacing it. You’ve got what it takes to be more than a mediocre student; you can be an excellent one.

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10 Tips for Improving Your Public Speaking Skills

Few are immune to the fear of public speaking. Marjorie North offers 10 tips for speakers to calm the nerves and deliverable memorable orations.

Marjorie North

Snakes? Fine. Flying? No problem. Public speaking? Yikes! Just thinking about public speaking — routinely described as one of the greatest (and most common) fears — can make your palms sweat. But there are many ways to tackle this anxiety and learn to deliver a memorable speech.

In part one of this series,  Mastering the Basics of Communication , I shared strategies to improve how you communicate. In part two, How to Communicate More Effectively in the Workplace , I examined how to apply these techniques as you interact with colleagues and supervisors in the workplace. For the third and final part of this series, I’m providing you with public speaking tips that will help reduce your anxiety, dispel myths, and improve your performance.

Here Are My 10 Tips for Public Speaking:

1. nervousness is normal. practice and prepare.

All people feel some physiological reactions like pounding hearts and trembling hands. Do not associate these feelings with the sense that you will perform poorly or make a fool of yourself. Some nerves are good. The adrenaline rush that makes you sweat also makes you more alert and ready to give your best performance.

The best way to overcome anxiety is to prepare, prepare, and prepare some more. Take the time to go over your notes several times. Once you have become comfortable with the material, practice — a lot. Videotape yourself, or get a friend to critique your performance.

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2. Know Your Audience. Your Speech Is About Them, Not You.

Before you begin to craft your message, consider who the message is intended for. Learn as much about your listeners as you can. This will help you determine your choice of words, level of information, organization pattern, and motivational statement.

3. Organize Your Material in the Most Effective Manner to Attain Your Purpose.

Create the framework for your speech. Write down the topic, general purpose, specific purpose, central idea, and main points. Make sure to grab the audience’s attention in the first 30 seconds.

4. Watch for Feedback and Adapt to It.

Keep the focus on the audience. Gauge their reactions, adjust your message, and stay flexible. Delivering a canned speech will guarantee that you lose the attention of or confuse even the most devoted listeners.

5. Let Your Personality Come Through.

Be yourself, don’t become a talking head — in any type of communication. You will establish better credibility if your personality shines through, and your audience will trust what you have to say if they can see you as a real person.

6. Use Humor, Tell Stories, and Use Effective Language.

Inject a funny anecdote in your presentation, and you will certainly grab your audience’s attention. Audiences generally like a personal touch in a speech. A story can provide that.

7. Don’t Read Unless You Have to. Work from an Outline.

Reading from a script or slide fractures the interpersonal connection. By maintaining eye contact with the audience, you keep the focus on yourself and your message. A brief outline can serve to jog your memory and keep you on task.

8. Use Your Voice and Hands Effectively. Omit Nervous Gestures.

Nonverbal communication carries most of the message. Good delivery does not call attention to itself, but instead conveys the speaker’s ideas clearly and without distraction.

9. Grab Attention at the Beginning, and Close with a Dynamic End.

Do you enjoy hearing a speech start with “Today I’m going to talk to you about X”? Most people don’t. Instead, use a startling statistic, an interesting anecdote, or concise quotation. Conclude your speech with a summary and a strong statement that your audience is sure to remember.

10. Use Audiovisual Aids Wisely.

Too many can break the direct connection to the audience, so use them sparingly. They should enhance or clarify your content, or capture and maintain your audience’s attention.

Practice Does Not Make Perfect

Good communication is never perfect, and nobody expects you to be perfect. However, putting in the requisite time to prepare will help you deliver a better speech. You may not be able to shake your nerves entirely, but you can learn to minimize them.

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About the Author

North is a consultant for political candidates, physicians, and lawyers, and runs a private practice specializing in public speaking, and executive communication skills. Previously, she was the clinical director in the department of speech and language pathology and audiology at Northeastern University.

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