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Seven Study Tips for Students

Studying for tests may be stressful but it doesn't have to be. Teachers can take a little extra time to teach students how to improve their study habits.

Here are seven study tips for students:

  1. Study in increments: Tell students that their brain can only take in so much information at once, and cramming never works. For every hour that they study, encourage students to take a break for about 15 minutes to listen to music, take a walk, play a game, or take a rest. Have them use timers or alarm clocks to manage their study time. This will give their minds a rest, and they will feel refreshed and ready for more studying. 
  2. Use planners/checklists: Have students keep a study planner in the classroom or at home, fully equipped with classes, study sessions, checklists for tests, and more. Instruct students that when they study to keep the checklists with them so they can monitor and check off the key points while they study. This way they will not feel unorganized and will be pleased that they are following a system. 
  3. Find a good study environment: Encourage students to study in a quiet, comfortable setting when they are at home. Make sure they are free of distractions, like music, television, their cell phones, etc. Being in a comfortable studying environment will keep students focused, and will further stimulate their brain to retain the information they are taking in for the test. 
  4. Create flash cards: Either have students make flash cards in class as a group or insist that they make flash cards at home. Writing information on flash cards will help students stay organized and remember facts they may have previosly glossed over. Students can test themselves with flash cards multiple times to achieve mastery. 
  5. Snack healthy: Tell students to stay away from junk food while studying and to munch on healthy foods. Students should snack on studying-friendly brain foods such as whole grains, peanut butter, and milk. Caffeine or energy drinks are not recommended when feeling sluggish--encourage students to snack on apples or bananas when they need an extra jolt. 
  6. Get some sleep: Students should never attempt to pull all-nighters. Tell students that it is crucial for them to get a full eight hours of sleep for a well-rested brain. 
  7. Participate in study/homework groups: Studying in groups is benefical for students, since it allows them to bounce ideas back and forth, ask questions, give and receive help, and more. Studying with other people on at the same level who are learning the same subjects is stimulating and can boost motivation

Article by Kassondra Granata, EducationWorld Contributor