1.    Multitasking During Study Sessions

The term multitasking is a bit of a misnomer. Our brains do not truly multitask, so your demands on it when “multitasking” reduce its effectiveness dramatically. Multitasking is actually divided attention which decreases production. Checking social media, texting, or watching TV while trying to study forces your mind to constantly switch focus. This makes it a challenge to grasp complex concepts, and it interferes with retention. 

How to avoid: 

• Focus on one task at a time. Turn off devices you don’t need. Choose times that are generally quiet in your work area. Plan your study activities so one is completed before beginning another. 
• Set and stick to study times. Give yourself a set focus time. Having a schedule and sticking to it works wonders. 

2.    Not Taking Breaks

Sometimes students become super determined to do well, so they decide that studying for long hours without pause will yield better results. While having a solid study plan and being consistent is key, overworking our brain leads to exhaustion and burnout – not to mention destroying your interest and enthusiasm for the subject. 

How to avoid:

• Plan to take regular breaks. For example, aim for a 5-10 minute break every 25-30 minutes of focused study time. 
• Use those few break minutes to stretch, walk around, or grab a snack. 
• More broadly, practise self-care. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and getting some exercise. These actions contribute to better brain functioning. 

3.    Being a Passive Learner

Many students think that if they show up to class and read the assigned texts, they have done their duty. This may feel productive but it is not the best way to retain material. You need to engage actively with the learning process. Switch from a passive learner to an active learner.

How to Avoid: 

• Use active recall. Instead of simply reading like a robot, try to actively recall what you have read by covering up the material and reciting what you remember. 
• Ask yourself questions, search for the answers, and take notes on these as well. 
• Teach what you have learned. One of the best ways to cement knowledge for recall is to explain the concepts or material to others – friends, family member, or fellow students. You can even explain to yourself. 

Check out my book: Teach Myself? Teach Myself! 

4.    Not Reviewing Material Regularly

Studying once for a test is not enough. In fact, focusing only on tests and exams is the wrong approach. The primary goal is to learn the material – not pass the tests. The tests are simply the evidence of what has been learned. 

The brain needs multiple exposures to the material to transfer it into long-term memory. Failing to review regularly leads to forgetting key concepts and struggling with recall during exams.

How to Avoid: 

• Create a schedule: Set aside time each night to review that day’s notes and then a space once a week to review that week’s notes. This simple process gives you at least three contacts with the material. Preparing for tests and exams will give you a couple more exposures. 
• Use flashcards for key terms and concepts. Review them regularly to strengthen your memory
• Teach the material to someone else. As mentioned earlier, teaching the material to someone else is a great way to solidify your understanding. If you don’t have a willing participant, use a stuffed animal or talk to your wall! You can be both the teacher and the student. 

5.    Cramming the Night Before an Exam

It seems to be almost a badge of honour to have pulled an “all-nighter” cramming for a test or exam. The reality is that while this might give a temporary boost, it is a poor strategy for long-term retention and understanding.

Cramming does not allow enough time for the brain to fully process and absorb the material. Also, the stress of cramming affects performance, leading to anxiety and memory lapses during the exam.  

If you are using excellent study skills throughout the term/semester/year, you will never need to cram! 

How to Avoid: 

• Start early: Study from the beginning of the course. Reviewing frequently and consistently (note point 4) and taking an active approach (note point 3) will actually reduce your workload while increasing your retention and recall of the material. If you are truly learning the material throughout the entire course, there is no need to try shoving the whole lot into your brain at the last minute! 
• Plan your focused study (not cramming) for a specific test/exam at least a week in advance. Break the study material into chunks and review it over several days. 

Study Smart, Not Hard! 

Believe it or not, studying does not have to be stressful or inefficient. With the right plan, a consistent approach, and implementation of solid study strategies, you can make your study time much more effective. A bonus is that you will feel more confident, relaxed, and competent. 

Happy studying! 

For more tips, follow my blog or subscribe to the YouTube channel. 

Interested in private tutoring? 

Call or e-mail to set up a free information meeting. 
tutoringcentral@inbox.com