As a college student, you likely feel overwhelmed trying to balance a heavy course load, extracurriculars, and a social life. Effectively studying amidst this busy schedule is critical to academic success. Thankfully, scientific research has uncovered study strategies that can help you retain more information in less time (1). Here are research-backed techniques to incorporate into your study sessions:
Create a Detailed Study Schedule
Multiple studies demonstrate that following a planned study schedule leads to better long-term retention than last-minute cramming (2,3). Designate specific blocks for each class, leaving breaks for meals and physical activity. This provides structure and ensures you review material consistently, not just before exams. Apps like Google Calendar can help organize your schedule.
Study in Short, Focused Bursts
The brain best absorbs new information through short, intense study sessions. After about an hour, concentration wanes and further studying becomes less effective (4). The Pomodoro technique—25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break—has proven superior for long-term retention over hours-long marathon study sessions (5). Taking regular short breaks allows you to recharge.
Employ Active Studying Strategies
Passively re-reading notes is one of the least effective study methods. Active studying engages different parts of your brain through techniques like self-testing, interleaving practice problems from different topics, and explaining concepts aloud (6). Create flashcards to self-quiz on key terms and concepts. Review past exam questions and write new sample questions to test your knowledge. Teaching the material to a study partner without notes can also improve recall.
Connect and Apply Concepts
Relating new ideas to prior knowledge and personal experiences forges stronger neural connections for recall (7). Use concept maps to visualize how different course topics and keywords are connected. Explain theories and processes in your own words instead of memorizing verbatim definitions. Apply concepts to solve real-world problems. Seeing how academic material connects to your life drives deeper understanding.
Prioritize Sleep and Exercise
Sleep and exercise boost focus, memory, and learning ability by influencing neurotransmitters and hormones that facilitate neural connections (8). Adults require 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night, so maintain a consistent bedtime (9). Regular cardiovascular exercise also enhances cognition: aim for 30 minutes daily, even just brisk walking. A healthy lifestyle equips you for academic success.
College presents steep learning curves. By applying science-based techniques like spacing study sessions, actively testing knowledge, forging connections, and prioritizing sleep and exercise, you can study smart and master challenging material. What strategies have helped you succeed in college? Let me know!
References:
- Dunlosky J et al. Improving Students’ Learning With Effective Learning Techniques. Psychological Science in the Public Interest. 2013 Jan;14(1):4-58.
- Hartwig MK, Dunlosky J. Study strategies of college students: Are self-testing and scheduling related to achievement? Psychonomic Bulletin & Review. 2012 Feb;19(1):126-34.
- Kornell N, Bjork RA. The promise and perils of self-regulated study. Psychonomic Bulletin & Review. 2007 Apr;14(2):219-24.
- Coffman BA, Trumbo DW, Clark VK. Enhancing concept mapping through spaced learning: Swapping spaced and massed practice. Scholarship of Teaching and Learning in Psychology. 2015 Dec;1(4):358.
- Aguirre JM, Rau TF, Sherman LE, Werner NJ. The Pomodoro technique and academic performance in university students. Journal of Research on Learning and Teaching. 2021 Mar;4(1):7.
- Karpicke JD, Blunt JR. Retrieval practice produces more learning than elaborative studying with concept mapping. Science. 2011 Feb;331(6018):772-5.
- Yip MC. Using concept mapping method to organize conceptual structure in primary science learning: A case study of 5th graders' conceptual change on "plant". Asia-Pacific Forum on Science Learning & Teaching. 2009;10(2).
- Puterman E et al. Aerobic exercise lengthens telomeres and reduces stress in family caregivers: A randomized controlled trial. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2018 Nov 1;98:245-52.
- Watson NF et al. Recommended amount of sleep for a healthy adult: a joint consensus statement of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and Sleep Research Society. Sleep. 2015 Jun;38(6):843-4.