+7 Study Habits Of Successful Students (How To Study Effectively For Exams)

Are wondering how to study effectively for exams? Studying is a crucial part of academic success, but it can be challenging to stay focused and productive during a study session. Whether you’re studying for an exam or trying to complete an assignment, it’s essential to make the most of your study time. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the best tips on how to study effectively for exams.

If you want to learn the best study techniques to use during your study session, check my detailed post about the 15 amazing and realistic study tips!

Now let’s get into setting the mood…

Of your study sesh 😊

This post is all about how to study effectively for exams.

Environment

Creating the right study environment is crucial for productivity. Find a place where you can concentrate without distractions. This could be a quiet library or a designated workspace at home. Eliminate any distractions, such as your phone or social media notifications. I can’t stress more about how important this is.

If you are looking for realistic and proven ways to stop getting distracted on your phone, click here!

I had a hard time studying. I had the right intentions but would almost always get distracted by my phone or my energy would completely deplete leaving me unmotivated. So it’s important to take care of yourself and maybe drink a cup of coffee every now and then if that helps you stay energized and focused.

If you need some background noise, try listening to instrumental music or white noise. Make sure you have everything you need before you start studying, such as textbooks, notes, and study materials.

Breaks

It may seem counterintuitive, but taking breaks during a study session can actually improve productivity. Studies have shown that taking short breaks can help you stay focused and retain information better.

The Pomodoro technique is a popular method for taking breaks during study sessions. The technique involves studying for 25 minutes and then taking a five-minute break. After four Pomodoros, take a longer break of 15-20 minutes. This method can help keep you focused and prevent burnout.

If you would like to learn more about the Pomodoro technique, as well as the benefits of using it, click here!

Active Learning

This goes into study methods that I have detailed in another post, but I thought it was important to mention this here as well. Active learning is an effective way to stay engaged and productive during a study session. Rather than just reading through notes or textbooks, try to actively engage with the material. This could mean taking notes, summarizing information in your own words, or creating flashcards. When you actively engage with the material, you’re more likely to retain the information and stay focused.

A super helpful method I can’t recommend enough is to use the Feynman technique. This describes the process of learning and teaching about material that you have learned. It is by far the most effective method I have come across that guarantees you will retain more information after studying. If you’d like to read up on that check out my Feynman technique post!

Time Management / Plan Your Study Time

Time management is another essential aspect of having a productive study session. It’s important to set realistic goals and prioritize tasks. Start by breaking down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable ones. Use a planner or calendar to schedule study sessions and assignments. Be sure to give yourself enough time to complete each task, but also be mindful of deadlines. Avoid procrastination by starting early and working consistently.

Study Groups

Sometimes, studying with others can be a great way to stay motivated and productive. Joining a study group can provide a supportive and collaborative environment where you can learn from others and share ideas. However, it’s important to find the right study group that fits your needs.

Not everyone is a good study buddy – trust me. Make sure you’re studying with people who are serious about their studies and are committed to staying on task.

This makes me think of the notion that you shouldn’t move in with your best friend. More likely than not, you learn that spending a lot of time together before moving in does not equate to living with each other. You learn their quirks and bad habits, and this experience is similar to studying with a friend. You learn more about them.

Can they work independently with you in the same room? Will they constantly distract you? Do they even know what’s going on in class? Will they be able to focus on and work with you on understanding things? Study groups can be tricky, but with the right group, it can really help you succeed in that class.

This can also be effective with using the Feynman technique. After you all have done some independent study, come together and teach each other what you’ve learned. Your peers can help you with anything you got incorrect, and you can deepen your understanding by them asking you questions about what you’re teaching.

Reach out for help

Learning how to study effectively for exams is a process. Whether you consult with your study group, search for helpful videos on youtube, or go to office hours, don’t forget… you’re not in this learning process alone!

I can’t tell you how many times I was face-timing my best friend who shared a lot of the same classes with me, to help me with homework, or how many times I consulted my professors because I was just NOT understanding.

Don’t feel embarrassed and don’t be scared. Just ask. I learned it’s better to ask all the questions than stare at my test in confusion and in regret knowing an “A” was just one office hour away. If the professor is mean, they suck but keep asking for help because you’re paying THEIR salary to make sure you are prepared for the next step in your academic career. You got this!

Bring a Snack

Make sure you always have a light snack in your backpack. Many times we overextend ourselves or don’t prepare for the realistic dip of energy we will get throughout the day. So many sure you pack a snack and water to enjoy during your breaks.

BONUS: Have something to look forward to!

This is for my students (like me) that sometimes need a little motivation to get through a study sesh. Give yourself something to look forward to after your study session. Something like 30 minutes on YouTube, TikTok, or even a tangible treat like ice cream can be all the motivation you need to stay focused on the task at hand. Learn how to limit your access to things until you are done with your work. It’ll pay off in the end, I promise!

Keep working towards your goals

Studying can be challenging, but implementing these tips and techniques can help you have the most productive study session ever! Learning how to study effectively for exams. By taking breaks, creating the right environment, actively engaging with the material, managing your time effectively, and studying with others, you can make the most of your study time. Remember, the key to productivity is to work smarter, not harder. Good luck with your studies!