Study Tips that Helped Me
I recently went back to school and boy does it feel a lot more stressful this time around 😫😓 maybe because I’m that much older with a lot more on my plate. So here’s some study tips that have helped me.
1. Write notes on index cards 📝. I’ve been writing definitions, questions from quizzes, and just notes to help me remember the material. This way I can randomly quiz myself, review material when I have a minute, or to just go back to.
2. Don’t skip the quizzes 🧐 ngl. I want to skip these so often to just move to the next chapter but sometimes but at the end of the day, they are an amazing study tool to prep for exams.
3. Review often: retake quizzes (if you have the option), play memory games, go back and read and even take out the index cards every time you have a minute. This makes the material stick to memory better and you’ll do better on tests!!
These study tips have done wonders for me!!! What has helped you study?
Anyway, thanks for reading!!
Going back to school as an adult with more responsibilities can definitely make studying feel overwhelming. One thing I've found incredibly helpful beyond the basic tips is creating a consistent study routine that fits into your daily schedule. For example, try dedicating short, focused study sessions at the same time every day—it could be right after work or during your lunch break. This consistency trains your brain to expect study time, making it easier to stay on track. Another approach that complements using index cards and quizzes is incorporating active recall and spaced repetition. When I study, I quiz myself without looking at notes to actively retrieve information, which significantly reinforces memory. Then, spacing these quizzes out over a few days instead of cramming helps move knowledge into long-term memory. I also like to mix in different types of content review like watching related videos or teaching a friend what I’ve learned. Teaching forces me to simplify and solidify concepts, and sometimes turns study time into an engaging conversation rather than a chore. Don’t forget to take short breaks during study sessions to maintain focus—using techniques like the Pomodoro method (25 minutes study, 5 minutes break) can prevent burnout and keep energy up. Lastly, managing stress with mindfulness or light physical activity has helped my overall study effectiveness. When stress is lower, it’s easier to concentrate and retain information. Combining these strategies with Yasmin’s tips of using index cards, embracing quizzes, and regular review will provide a comprehensive study plan that works well in real life, especially for busy students juggling multiple tasks.
