ESS Study Tips

100 Powerful Study Tips

Boost your learning efficiency with these scientifically-proven techniques and strategies

1

Pomodoro Technique

Time Management

Break your study time into focused intervals with short breaks to maintain concentration.

1. Set a timer for 25 minutes
2. Study with complete focus during this time
3. Take a 5-minute break when timer goes off
4. Repeat 3-4 times, then take a longer 15-30 minute break

2

Spaced Repetition

Memory Techniques

Review information at increasing intervals to enhance long-term retention.

1. Review material shortly after learning
2. Review again after 1 day
3. Then after 3 days
4. Then after 1 week, 2 weeks, 1 month, etc.
5. Use apps like Anki or Quizlet to automate this

3

Cornell Note-Taking System

Note Taking

An organized method for recording, reviewing, and retaining information.

1. Divide your paper into 3 sections: cues, notes, and summary
2. Take notes in the right column during lecture
3. After class, write questions/keywords in the left cue column
4. Summarize the main ideas at the bottom
5. Use the cues to quiz yourself when reviewing

4

Eliminate Distractions

Focus & Concentration

Create an environment conducive to deep focus.

1. Put your phone on airplane mode or in another room
2. Use website blockers for distracting sites
3. Find a quiet space or use noise-cancelling headphones
4. Inform others you need focused study time
5. Close unnecessary tabs and apps on your computer

5

Active Recall

Memory Techniques

Test yourself frequently to strengthen memory pathways.

1. After reading a section, close the book
2. Write down or say aloud everything you remember
3. Check your notes for accuracy and completeness
4. Repeat the process until you can recall all key points

6

Practice Testing

Exam Preparation

Simulate exam conditions to improve performance.

1. Gather past exams or create your own test questions
2. Set a timer matching the real exam duration
3. Complete the test without notes or help
4. Grade your test and analyze mistakes
5. Focus your study on weak areas identified

7

Time Blocking

Time Management

Schedule specific blocks of time for each study task.

1. At the start of each week, review all assignments/tests
2. Break large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks
3. Assign specific times in your calendar for each task
4. Include buffer time for unexpected delays
5. Stick to your schedule as closely as possible

8

Mnemonic Devices

Memory Techniques

Use creative associations to remember information.

1. Acronyms: Create a word from first letters (e.g., PEMDAS for math order)
2. Acrostics: Make a sentence where first letters stand for something
3. Rhymes: "I before E except after C"
4. Visualization: Create vivid mental images
5. Chunking: Group information into meaningful units

9

Deep Work Sessions

Focus & Concentration

Dedicate uninterrupted time for cognitively demanding tasks.

1. Schedule 2-4 hour blocks in your calendar
2. Prepare all materials needed beforehand
3. Eliminate all potential distractions
4. Set a clear goal for the session
5. Work with intense focus until time is up
6. Follow with meaningful relaxation

10

Reward System

Motivation

Use incentives to maintain motivation for studying.

1. Break study goals into milestones
2. Assign rewards for each milestone (e.g., snack, break, episode)
3. Make rewards proportional to the effort required
4. Only give yourself the reward after completing the task
5. Vary rewards to keep them interesting

11

Mind Mapping

Note Taking

Visualize information in a non-linear way to enhance understanding and recall.

1. Start with a central concept in the middle of the page
2. Create branches for main topics radiating outward
3. Add sub-branches for supporting details
4. Use colors, images, and symbols to enhance memory
5. Keep words to a minimum - focus on key concepts

12

Eisenhower Matrix

Time Management

Prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance.

1. Divide tasks into four quadrants: urgent/important, not urgent/important, urgent/not important, not urgent/not important
2. Do urgent/important tasks immediately
3. Schedule important/non-urgent tasks
4. Delegate urgent/unimportant tasks if possible
5. Eliminate unimportant/non-urgent tasks

13

Chunking Information

Memory Techniques

Group related information together to improve memory capacity.

1. Identify related concepts or items
2. Group them into meaningful categories (3-5 items per group)
3. Create a name or label for each group
4. Practice recalling the groups and their contents
5. Connect new information to existing chunks

14

Single-Tasking

Focus & Concentration

Focus completely on one task at a time for better quality and efficiency.

1. Choose one specific task to focus on
2. Clear your workspace of unrelated materials
3. Set a timer for a reasonable work period (25-50 minutes)
4. If distracted, gently return to the single task
5. Complete or reach a stopping point before switching tasks

15

Backward Planning

Exam Preparation

Start from the exam date and plan backward to ensure adequate preparation.

1. Mark the exam date on your calendar
2. Identify all topics that need to be covered
3. Allocate study time for each topic working backward
4. Include buffer days for review and unexpected delays
5. Set milestones to check progress

16

Implementation Intentions

Motivation

Use "if-then" planning to overcome procrastination.

1. Identify potential obstacles to studying
2. Create specific "if-then" plans for each
3. Example: "If I feel like checking social media, then I will do 5 more minutes of studying first"
4. Write these plans down and review them
5. Practice following through when the situations arise

17

The Feynman Technique

Note Taking

Explain concepts in simple terms to identify gaps in understanding.

1. Choose a concept to learn
2. Explain it in simple terms as if teaching a child
3. Identify areas where your explanation falters
4. Review the source material to clarify
5. Simplify your explanation further and use analogies

18

Two-Minute Rule

Time Management

Immediately complete tasks that take less than two minutes.

1. When a small study task comes up, estimate the time
2. If it can be done in two minutes or less, do it immediately
3. Examples: reviewing flashcards, quick email, organizing notes
4. Prevents small tasks from accumulating and becoming overwhelming

19

Method of Loci

Memory Techniques

Associate information with specific locations to improve recall.

1. Choose a familiar place (your house, a regular walk route)
2. Identify specific locations along a path through this place
3. Associate each piece of information with a location
4. Create vivid mental images connecting information to locations
5. To recall, mentally walk through the location retrieving each item

20

Attention Anchoring

Focus & Concentration

Use physical cues to maintain focus during study sessions.

1. Choose a physical anchor (tapping foot, holding a pen, sitting upright)
2. When your mind wanders, return attention to the anchor
3. The anchor becomes a conditioned trigger for focus
4. Practice daily to strengthen the association
5. Over time, the anchor will automatically improve concentration

21

Interleaved Practice

Exam Preparation

Mix different topics or types of problems during study sessions.

1. Identify 3-4 related topics or problem types
2. Alternate between them in a single study session
3. Don't complete all of one type before switching
4. Space out practice of each topic over multiple sessions
5. This improves ability to distinguish between concepts

22

SQ3R Reading Method

Note Taking

A systematic approach to reading and comprehending textbook material.

1. Survey: Skim headings, pictures and summaries
2. Question: Turn headings into questions
3. Read: Actively read to answer your questions
4. Recite: Summarize in your own words
5. Review: Check your understanding

23

Energy Management

Time Management

Schedule tasks according to your natural energy fluctuations.

1. Track your energy levels for a week
2. Identify your peak focus hours (typically morning or evening)
3. Schedule difficult study tasks during high-energy periods
4. Save routine tasks for low-energy times
5. Take strategic breaks to recharge

24

Leitner System

Memory Techniques

A physical flashcard system that optimizes review frequency.

1. Create flashcards and divide them into 3-5 boxes
2. All cards start in Box 1
3. Review Box 1 daily, Box 2 every 2 days, Box 3 weekly etc.
4. Move cards forward when correct, backward when incorrect
5. This automatically spaces out reviews optimally

25

Dual Coding

Memory Techniques

Combine verbal and visual information to enhance learning.

1. When studying text, create corresponding diagrams or images
2. When studying images, add verbal descriptions or labels
3. Use different colors to represent different concepts
4. Create simple sketches even if you're not artistic
5. The act of creating dual representations strengthens memory

26

80/20 Rule (Pareto Principle)

Time Management

Focus on the 20% of material that yields 80% of results.

1. Analyze past exams or syllabus to identify high-yield topics
2. Focus first on mastering these core concepts
3. Then move to less frequently tested material
4. Apply this to problem types - practice the most important ones
5. Regularly reassess what constitutes your 20%

27

Self-Explanation

Memory Techniques

Verbally explain how you solve problems step-by-step.

1. Work through a practice problem
2. Explain each step aloud as if teaching someone
3. Record your explanations and listen back
4. Identify gaps or unclear reasoning
5. Refine your explanations to be more precise

28

Pre-Testing

Exam Preparation

Test yourself on material before studying it.

1. Before reading a chapter, try to answer questions about it
2. Make educated guesses based on headings and prior knowledge
3. This activates relevant knowledge and highlights gaps
4. Then study the material with heightened awareness
5. Your brain becomes primed to absorb the information

29

Sleep Learning

Memory Techniques

Leverage sleep for memory consolidation.

1. Review difficult material just before bedtime
2. Keep a notebook by your bed to capture insights
3. Maintain consistent sleep schedule (7-9 hours)
4. Play white noise or binaural beats if helpful
5. Avoid screens 1 hour before sleep for better retention

30

Concept Linking

Note Taking

Visually connect related concepts in your notes.

1. Identify key concepts in your material
2. Draw lines connecting related ideas
3. Label connections with relationship types ("causes", "contrasts with")
4. Use different colored lines for different relationships
5. Creates a visual web of knowledge in your notes

31

The 5 More Rule

Focus & Concentration

Push beyond your initial resistance to build focus endurance.

1. When you feel like stopping, commit to 5 more minutes
2. After 5 minutes, do 5 more problems/questions
3. Then read 5 more pages or review 5 more concepts
4. This builds mental stamina through small wins
5. Often leads to continued studying beyond the "5 more"

32

Story Chain Method

Memory Techniques

Create an absurd story linking items you need to remember.

1. List items/concepts you need to memorize
2. Create a vivid story where each item interacts with the next
3. Make it bizarre, emotional, or humorous for better recall
4. Visualize the story like a movie in your mind
5. To recall, simply "play back" your story

33

Error Logging

Exam Preparation

Systematically track and analyze your mistakes.

1. Create an error log spreadsheet or notebook
2. Record every mistake from practice tests/assignments
3. Categorize errors (concept gap, careless, time pressure)
4. Identify patterns in your mistakes
5. Target your weakest areas with focused practice

34

Temptation Bundling

Motivation

Pair studying with an enjoyable activity to boost motivation.

1. Identify an activity you enjoy (podcasts, music, snacks)
2. Only allow yourself to do it while studying
3. Example: Only listen to favorite playlist while reviewing notes
4. Creates positive associations with studying
5. Gradually reduce the pairing as habits strengthen

35

Color-Coded Notes

Note Taking

Use a consistent color system to organize information visually.

1. Assign colors to different categories (dates, names, formulas)
2. Use highlighters, pens, or digital tools consistently
3. Example: Blue for definitions, green for examples, red for important
4. Creates visual memory cues and improves organization
5. Limit to 4-5 colors to avoid confusion

36

The 2-Day Rule

Time Management

Never skip studying for more than one day in a row.

1. Study at least a small amount every other day minimum
2. Even 15 minutes counts to maintain momentum
3. Prevents knowledge decay and procrastination buildup
4. Helps form consistent study habits
5. Pair with calendar tracking for accountability

37

Teach It To Learn It

Memory Techniques

Explain concepts to others to solidify your understanding.

1. Choose a concept you're learning
2. Prepare to teach it to a classmate or imaginary student
3. Anticipate questions they might ask
4. Identify gaps as you struggle to explain simply
5. Review material to fill understanding gaps

38

Peripheral Focus

Focus & Concentration

Use your physical environment to maintain concentration.

1. Set up a dedicated study space with minimal distractions
2. Place motivational quotes or goals in your line of sight
3. Keep all needed materials within arm's reach
4. Use a single desk lamp to create a "spotlight" effect
5. This physical setup trains your brain to focus in this space

39

Question the Author

Exam Preparation

Engage critically with study material by interrogating it.

1. As you read, ask: "What is the author trying to say?"
2. "Why is this important?" "How does this connect?"
3. Write these questions in the margins
4. Look for answers as you continue reading
5. Creates active engagement rather than passive reading

40

Progress Tracking

Motivation

Visualize your study progress to maintain motivation.

1. Create a progress chart or checklist for each subject
2. Use a habit tracker app or physical calendar
3. Mark off each study session or completed topic
4. Include metrics like hours studied or concepts mastered
5. The visual chain of progress creates momentum

41

Pomodoro Technique

Focus & Concentration

Use timed intervals to improve concentration and avoid burnout.

1. Set a timer for 25 minutes of focused study
2. Take a 5-minute break after each session
3. Repeat the cycle four times
4. Take a longer break (15–30 minutes) after four sessions
5. Use apps like Focus Keeper or Pomofocus

42

Set Daily Goals

Time Management

Clear daily objectives reduce procrastination and boost clarity.

1. Start your day by listing 3–5 realistic goals
2. Prioritize tasks from most to least important
3. Break large tasks into smaller chunks
4. Review progress at the end of the day
5. Adjust future goals based on performance

43

Growth Mindset

Motivation

Believe in your ability to learn and improve through effort.

1. Acknowledge challenges as opportunities
2. Replace “I can’t” with “I can learn how”
3. Reward effort, not just results
4. Reflect on what each mistake taught you
5. Celebrate progress regularly

44

Optimize Study Space

Focus & Concentration

Your environment affects your efficiency—set it up for success.

1. Choose a quiet, well-lit space
2. Keep only essential materials within reach
3. Minimize distractions like phones or noise
4. Use ergonomic furniture if possible
5. Personalize with motivational elements

45

Spaced Repetition

Memory Techniques

Space out your reviews to strengthen memory and understanding.

1. Review material after 1 day, 3 days, then 1 week
2. Use flashcards or spaced repetition apps like Anki
3. Focus on weak points more often
4. Mix old and new material in reviews
5. Track how well you recall each concept

46

Effective Note-Taking

Note Taking

Organized notes improve comprehension and long-term retention.

1. Use structured formats like Cornell or Outline method
2. Highlight key terms and definitions
3. Summarize ideas in your own words
4. Use diagrams or mind maps for visual concepts
5. Review and revise notes regularly

47

Reward System

Motivation

Incentivize study habits by attaching small rewards to achievements.

1. Set specific targets for each session
2. Choose meaningful rewards (snack, break, game time)
3. Stick to your reward conditions
4. Increase challenge and rewards over time
5. Avoid overindulgence—keep it balanced

48

Self-Quizzing

Exam Preparation

Regular quizzes reinforce memory and highlight weak areas.

1. Create or find short quizzes for each topic
2. Use spaced repetition to quiz over time
3. Track scores to monitor improvement
4. Focus reviews on low-performing areas
5. Quiz with friends for variety and challenge

49

Maintain Balance

Time Management

Balance study with rest, social life, and physical health.

1. Stick to a realistic, flexible schedule
2. Include breaks, meals, and exercise in your routine
3. Limit all-nighters—they backfire
4. Stay connected with friends and family
5. Listen to your body and rest when needed

50

Teach What You Learn

Memory Techniques

Explaining concepts to others boosts understanding and retention.

1. Teach a classmate or explain out loud to yourself
2. Use simple language to clarify ideas
3. Write blog-style summaries or record explanations
4. Spot gaps in your knowledge during teaching
5. Reinforce weak areas with targeted study

51

Simulate Exam Conditions

Exam Preparation

Practice under real exam-like settings to reduce test anxiety.

1. Set a timer and stick to actual exam durations
2. Work in a quiet, distraction-free space
3. Avoid checking answers until finished
4. Use only permitted materials
5. Review mistakes to fine-tune exam strategy

52

Time Blocking

Time Management

Plan your day by assigning specific hours to tasks or subjects.

1. Divide your day into study, break, and personal time blocks
2. Assign each block a clear objective
3. Use digital calendars or planners
4. Build buffer time between blocks
5. Adjust blocks weekly based on what works

53

Use Noise Control

Focus & Concentration

Manage your sound environment for better focus.

1. Use noise-canceling headphones in loud spaces
2. Try ambient music or white noise playlists
3. Avoid music with lyrics during reading tasks
4. Experiment to find your ideal noise level
5. Mute notifications during study sessions

54

Use Symbols and Abbreviations

Note Taking

Speed up your note-taking with shorthand techniques.

1. Use common symbols like “→” for leads to, “&” for and
2. Create your own abbreviations for frequent words
3. Stay consistent with your shorthand system
4. Review and expand notes after class
5. Ensure clarity for future reference

55

Use Mnemonics

Memory Techniques

Link information to catchy phrases or patterns for easy recall.

1. Create acronyms or rhymes for difficult lists
2. Use vivid mental imagery to connect facts
3. Relate new info to something familiar
4. Review your mnemonics regularly
5. Make them weird or funny to make them stick

56

Visualize Success

Motivation

Mental imagery helps reinforce purpose and goals.

1. Close your eyes and picture achieving your goals
2. Visualize the emotions and results of success
3. Do this before study sessions to boost drive
4. Use vision boards or motivational wallpapers
5. Reinforce with affirmations or journaling

57

Study Past Papers

Exam Preparation

Practice with previous exam questions to get familiar with patterns.

1. Collect recent and past years' question papers
2. Time yourself while answering
3. Analyze recurring question types and formats
4. Focus on weak areas that show up often
5. Discuss tricky questions with peers or teachers

58

Digital Note Organization

Note Taking

Keep your notes sorted for fast access and easy revision.

1. Use apps like Notion, Evernote, or OneNote
2. Organize notes by subject and topic
3. Tag keywords for quick searches
4. Use color-coding for different types of content
5. Sync across devices to access anytime

59

Avoid Multitasking

Focus & Concentration

Switching tasks kills productivity—do one thing at a time.

1. Turn off unrelated tabs or apps while studying
2. Set clear goals for each session
3. Use timers to stick to one task until completion
4. Batch similar tasks together
5. Reflect on productivity after focused sessions

60

Track Wins Weekly

Motivation

Recording your achievements keeps your momentum alive.

1. Set aside 10 minutes weekly to reflect
2. List everything you completed or improved on
3. Write them down in a dedicated “Wins” notebook
4. Reread past wins when feeling unmotivated
5. Pair with new goals for the upcoming week

61

Set Weekly Priorities

Time Management

Start each week by identifying key tasks to stay on track.

1. Review deadlines and upcoming tests
2. Choose 3–5 main goals for the week
3. Break goals into smaller daily tasks
4. Schedule tasks into your planner or app
5. Evaluate progress every Sunday

62

Eliminate Digital Clutter

Focus & Concentration

Too many tabs and notifications kill concentration.

1. Close all unnecessary tabs before studying
2. Use focus apps like Forest or Freedom
3. Mute or disable app notifications
4. Unsubscribe from distracting channels
5. Keep only study tools open

63

Cornell Note System

Note Taking

A proven structure to enhance comprehension and review.

1. Divide your page into cue, note, and summary sections
2. Take notes in the large right-hand section
3. Add key terms/questions on the left side
4. Summarize at the bottom after class
5. Review using the cues to self-test

64

Create a Formula Sheet

Exam Preparation

Compile key equations and concepts for subjects like math or science.

1. List all essential formulas you need to know
2. Include symbols and what they represent
3. Color-code or group by topic
4. Use this sheet for daily quick reviews
5. Keep it concise and well-organized

65

Teach What You Learn

Memory Techniques

Explaining a concept to someone else boosts retention.

1. Pick a topic you’ve just studied
2. Teach it to a friend or imaginary audience
3. Use simple language and analogies
4. Spot gaps in your understanding
5. Restudy and repeat until you can explain it clearly

66

Set Rewards for Milestones

Motivation

Attach small rewards to completed study goals to stay driven.

1. Define clear goals like finishing a chapter or acing a quiz
2. Choose rewards like snacks, breaks, or an episode of a show
3. Only claim the reward after the task is 100% done
4. Use larger rewards for bigger achievements
5. Make rewards consistent but not distracting

67

Limit Social Media Use

Time Management

Social apps drain your study hours unless controlled.

1. Use app blockers during study time
2. Limit usage to set times of day
3. Delete apps temporarily during exam weeks
4. Replace scrolling with reading or breaks
5. Track your screen time weekly

68

Keep a Distraction Log

Focus & Concentration

Write down every time your focus breaks and why.

1. Keep a notepad nearby during study sessions
2. Note each time you get distracted and what caused it
3. Review the list weekly to identify patterns
4. Take action to remove or reduce the triggers
5. Turn the log into a productivity challenge

69

Color Code Key Concepts

Note Taking

Color helps your brain organize and remember details better.

1. Assign colors to categories like definitions, dates, and formulas
2. Use highlighters or colored pens for clarity
3. Be consistent across all subjects
4. Don’t overdo it—3–4 colors is ideal
5. Review color-coded notes regularly

70

Create a Study Countdown

Exam Preparation

Mark the days left until exams to stay alert and organized.

1. Write exam dates on a wall calendar or app
2. Break your study material into weekly goals
3. Count down days to increase urgency
4. Track your progress and adjust as needed
5. Use red markers for urgent tasks

71

Use Memory Palaces

Memory Techniques

Turn locations into memory storage spaces.

1. Visualize a familiar place like your house
2. Assign facts or items to different rooms or spots
3. Use vivid, exaggerated images for each item
4. Mentally walk through the space to recall info
5. Practice recalling the palace daily

72

Use Noise-Canceling Tools

Focus & Concentration

Block out distractions with the right gear or sounds.

1. Invest in noise-canceling headphones
2. Try ambient sounds or instrumental music
3. Use white noise apps or YouTube loops
4. Avoid music with lyrics if it breaks focus
5. Experiment until you find what works best

73

Use Time Blocking

Time Management

Assign fixed hours for specific tasks.

1. Choose your most productive time of day
2. Create calendar blocks for subjects or tasks
3. Include breaks between blocks
4. Stick to the schedule as if they were appointments
5. Review and adjust blocks weekly

74

Use Diagrams & Mind Maps

Note Taking

Visual notes can improve comprehension and memory.

1. Draw a central idea in the center of the page
2. Add branches for related topics
3. Include keywords, symbols, and images
4. Keep it neat but creative
5. Review mind maps before exams

75

Visualize Success

Motivation

See yourself succeeding to stay energized and confident.

1. Close your eyes before each study session
2. Visualize yourself acing an exam or reaching your goal
3. Imagine the feeling of achievement
4. Anchor your study efforts to that vision
5. Repeat this practice daily

76

Take Practice Tests

Exam Preparation

Simulate the exam experience to reduce anxiety and boost recall.

1. Gather past papers or create your own
2. Set a timer and use a quiet room
3. Follow exam rules strictly
4. Review and analyze your answers
5. Repeat weekly until the test

77

Chunk Information

Memory Techniques

Break down big info into manageable chunks.

1. Group related items together
2. Create acronyms or short phrases
3. Use numbers or letters to organize
4. Review chunks frequently
5. Build on each chunk over time

78

Declutter Your Study Space

Focus & Concentration

A messy desk can be a major distraction.

1. Remove all unrelated items
2. Only keep necessary materials on your desk
3. Organize with trays or drawers
4. Use calming decor or lighting
5. Clean up after each session

79

Summarize After Class

Note Taking

Reviewing notes soon after class locks in understanding.

1. Take 10–15 minutes after class to review notes
2. Highlight unclear sections for follow-up
3. Write a brief summary in your own words
4. Check against the textbook or lecture slides
5. Store notes neatly for future review

80

Use Spaced Repetition

Exam Preparation

Review material over increasing intervals to strengthen memory.

1. Review new content within 24 hours
2. Revisit it 2–3 days later
3. Then 1 week, 2 weeks, and monthly
4. Use apps like Anki or Quizlet
5. Stick to the schedule consistently

81

Celebrate Small Wins

Motivation

Recognizing progress keeps you motivated and builds momentum.

1. Break big goals into smaller steps
2. Reward yourself after completing each milestone
3. Use treats, breaks, or social time as rewards
4. Track your wins in a journal or app
5. Reflect weekly on your progress

82

Apply the 80/20 Rule

Time Management

Focus on the 20% of tasks that give 80% of the results.

1. Identify the most important tasks in your study plan
2. Prioritize those before anything else
3. Minimize time on low-impact tasks
4. Regularly reassess your priorities
5. Use this rule to plan each study session

83

Limit Digital Distractions

Focus & Concentration

Phones and apps can wreck focus—control your tech.

1. Turn off non-essential notifications
2. Use apps like Forest or Focus To-Do
3. Put your phone in another room if needed
4. Block distracting websites during study time
5. Establish clear tech-use boundaries

84

Use the Cornell Method

Note Taking

This structured system improves review and retention.

1. Divide your page into cue, notes, and summary sections
2. Take notes in the main area during lectures
3. Write key questions or terms in the cue column later
4. Summarize the content at the bottom of the page
5. Review regularly using the cues and summary

85

Simulate Exam Conditions

Exam Preparation

Practice in the same environment you'll face in the real test.

1. Time yourself strictly when doing mock tests
2. Use the same tools allowed in the exam
3. Sit upright at a desk, not in bed or lounging
4. Avoid breaks or distractions
5. Analyze your results immediately after

86

Teach What You Learn

Memory Techniques

Explaining content to others reinforces your understanding.

1. Choose a topic you've recently studied
2. Explain it aloud as if teaching a class
3. Use simple language and real examples
4. Identify gaps in your understanding
5. Review weak areas and teach again

87

Use the Pomodoro Technique

Focus & Concentration

This time method keeps your mind fresh and productive.

1. Work for 25 minutes with full focus
2. Take a 5-minute break after each session
3. Repeat for 4 sessions, then take a longer break
4. Track how many Pomodoros you complete daily
5. Adjust session times if needed

88

Join a Study Group

Motivation

Studying with others adds accountability and makes it less lonely.

1. Find classmates or friends with similar goals
2. Set clear agendas for group sessions
3. Take turns explaining topics
4. Share resources and strategies
5. Keep each other on track and motivated

89

Use Color Coding

Note Taking

Organize information visually for faster recall.

1. Choose colors for different types of info (e.g., dates, formulas)
2. Use highlighters or pens consistently
3. Don’t overdo it—keep it clean and readable
4. Apply the same system across subjects
5. Use color to spot key ideas quickly

90

Create a Revision Schedule

Exam Preparation

Plan what to revise and when to avoid last-minute cramming.

1. List all subjects and topics to revise
2. Break them into manageable chunks
3. Assign each chunk to a date and time
4. Balance hard and easy topics daily
5. Track and adjust your plan as needed

91

Set Clear Deadlines

Time Management

Deadlines create urgency and help manage procrastination.

1. Break large tasks into smaller goals with due dates
2. Use calendar reminders to track them
3. Set personal deadlines earlier than actual ones
4. Hold yourself accountable with consequences
5. Adjust if needed but avoid frequent changes

92

Use Mind Maps

Memory Techniques

Visual diagrams boost memory through connections and colors.

1. Write the main topic in the center of a page
2. Draw branches for subtopics and key ideas
3. Use images, colors, and keywords
4. Keep it organized but creative
5. Review your map to reinforce memory

93

Study in Focus Zones

Focus & Concentration

Designate a space used only for focused work.

1. Choose a quiet, clean, and well-lit spot
2. Remove distractions like clutter and gadgets
3. Only study in that area—no entertainment
4. Train your brain to associate that spot with focus
5. Keep it consistent to build the habit

94

Summarize After Class

Note Taking

Rewriting your notes in your own words reinforces learning.

1. Review class notes within 24 hours
2. Rewrite them concisely using your own understanding
3. Highlight unclear points to revisit later
4. Use bullet points or visual aids
5. Store summaries for quick future revision

95

Target Weak Topics

Exam Preparation

Don't waste time reviewing what you already know well.

1. Assess your strengths and weaknesses
2. List topics you struggle with
3. Spend extra time mastering them first
4. Use resources like videos or tutoring
5. Track improvement with practice questions

96

Visualize Your Goal

Motivation

Keep your long-term goals in sight to stay inspired.

1. Create a vision board or write a goal statement
2. Include reasons why the goal matters to you
3. Place it where you’ll see it often
4. Reflect on it during tough times
5. Update it as your goals evolve

97

Batch Similar Tasks

Time Management

Group similar activities to reduce mental switching costs.

1. Identify related tasks (e.g., reading, problem-solving)
2. Schedule them back-to-back
3. Avoid mixing unrelated subjects in one session
4. Use blocks of focused time for each task group
5. Review performance and adjust batching patterns

98

Use Acronyms and Mnemonics

Memory Techniques

Memory shortcuts make it easier to recall complex information.

1. Create a memorable acronym using key ideas
2. Turn steps or lists into funny phrases
3. Use visual imagery to boost recall
4. Practice recalling the acronym regularly
5. Share it with others to reinforce it

99

Avoid Multitasking

Focus & Concentration

Doing many things at once lowers the quality of all of them.

1. Choose one task to focus on at a time
2. Clear your workspace of unrelated materials
3. Finish or pause a task before switching
4. Use full-screen mode on your device
5. Build deep work sessions into your day

100

Digitize Your Notes

Note Taking

Digital notes are easier to organize, search, and back up.

1. Use apps like Notion, OneNote, or Evernote
2. Scan handwritten notes if you prefer writing
3. Create folders by subject or topic
4. Use tags or keywords for fast retrieval
5. Regularly back up your notes to the cloud

101

Use a Time Audit

Time Management

Track how you spend your time to identify and eliminate inefficiencies.

1. Record all activities for a week
2. Categorize tasks (e.g., study, leisure, chores)
3. Analyze where time is wasted
4. Adjust your schedule to prioritize important tasks
5. Repeat monthly to stay on track

102

Employ the Method of Loci

Memory Techniques

Visualize information in familiar locations to enhance recall.

1. Choose a familiar place (e.g., your home)
2. Associate each item to remember with a specific location
3. Visualize walking through the place, recalling each item
4. Practice regularly to strengthen associations
5. Use this method for speeches or lists

103

Practice Mindfulness Meditation

Focus & Concentration

Regular mindfulness can improve attention and reduce stress.

1. Set aside 10 minutes daily for meditation
2. Focus on your breath and observe thoughts without judgment
3. Gently return focus when distracted
4. Increase duration over time
5. Apply mindfulness during study sessions

104

Implement the SQ3R Method

Note Taking

Enhance comprehension by surveying, questioning, reading, reciting, and reviewing.

1. Survey the chapter headings and summaries
2. Formulate questions based on headings
3. Read actively to find answers
4. Recite key points aloud
5. Review the material to reinforce learning

105

Use Past Papers Strategically

Exam Preparation

Practicing with past exams familiarizes you with question formats and timing.

1. Collect past papers for each subject
2. Simulate exam conditions when practicing
3. Review answers and identify weak areas
4. Focus revision on frequently tested topics
5. Track progress over time

106

Set SMART Goals

Motivation

Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals enhance motivation.

1. Define clear objectives for your studies
2. Ensure goals are measurable and trackable
3. Set realistic and attainable targets
4. Align goals with your academic aspirations
5. Set deadlines to maintain momentum

107

Prioritize Tasks with Eisenhower Matrix

Time Management

Distinguish between urgent and important tasks to manage time effectively.

1. List all tasks for the day
2. Categorize them into: urgent-important, important-not urgent, urgent-not important, neither
3. Focus on important tasks first
4. Delegate or schedule less critical tasks
5. Regularly reassess priorities

108

Apply Spaced Repetition

Memory Techniques

Reviewing information at increasing intervals enhances long-term retention.

1. Review new material shortly after learning
2. Schedule subsequent reviews over longer intervals
3. Use flashcards or apps like Anki
4. Focus on challenging material more frequently
5. Maintain a consistent review schedule

109

Eliminate Multitasking

Focus & Concentration

Concentrating on one task at a time improves efficiency and comprehension.

1. Identify and remove distractions
2. Allocate specific time blocks for each task
3. Use tools to block distracting websites
4. Practice mindfulness to stay present
5. Reflect on productivity improvements

110

Use Digital Note-Taking Tools

Note Taking

Leverage technology to organize and access notes efficiently.

1. Choose a note-taking app (e.g., Evernote, OneNote)
2. Create notebooks for each subject
3. Use tags and search functions for quick retrieval
4. Sync notes across devices
5. Regularly back up your notes