10 Proven Study Techniques for Students – Boost Your Learning Efficiency

1. Active Recall – Test Yourself Regularly

Instead of passively reading notes, actively test yourself on the material. Close your book and try to recall key concepts. This strengthens memory pathways far more effectively than re-reading.

2. Spaced Repetition – Review at Strategic Intervals

Review material at increasing intervals: 1 day, 3 days, 1 week, 2 weeks. This fights the forgetting curve and moves information to long-term memory.

3. Pomodoro Technique – Study in Focused Bursts

Study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After 4 pomodoros, take a longer 15-30 minute break. This maintains focus and prevents burnout.

4. Feynman Technique – Teach to Learn

Explain concepts in simple terms as if teaching a child. If you cannot explain it simply, you do not understand it well enough.

1. Choose a concept
2. Explain it in simple words
3. Identify gaps in your explanation
4. Review and simplify further

5. Mind Mapping – Visual Learning

Create visual diagrams connecting related concepts. This helps see the big picture and relationships between topics.

6. Interleaving – Mix Different Topics

Instead of studying one topic for hours, alternate between different subjects or problem types. This improves long-term retention and problem-solving ability.

7. SQ3R Method – Strategic Reading

• Survey: Skim headings, summaries, questions
• Question: Turn headings into questions
• Read: Read to answer your questions
• Recite: Summarize in your own words
• Review: Go over notes regularly

8. Eliminate Distractions

Put your phone on silent or in another room. Use website blockers during study time. A distraction-free environment can double your productivity.

9. Get Adequate Sleep

Sleep consolidates memory. Studying all night before an exam is counterproductive. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep, especially before exams.

10. Practice with Past Papers

Solving previous year question papers familiarizes you with exam patterns, time management, and important topics.