Studying hard but struggling to remember what you learned? The key to effective studying isn’t just about spending hours with your notes—it’s about using science-backed strategies that enhance memory, recall, and learning efficiency.
Here are 15 study hacks supported by research to help you retain information better and recall it when you need it most.
Contents
- 1. Use the Spaced Repetition Method
- 2. Teach Someone Else
- 3. Use Active Recall
- 4. Take Advantage of the Pomodoro Technique
- 5. Connect New Information to What You Already Know
- 6. Use Mnemonics and Memory Aids
- 7. Study in Different Locations
- 8. Take Handwritten Notes
- 9. Get Enough Sleep
- 10. Use Visualization Techniques
- 11. Listen to the Right Study Music
- 12. Move While You Study
- 13. Test Yourself with Flashcards
- 14. Drink Water and Eat Brain-Boosting Foods
- 15. Reward Yourself After Study Sessions
1. Use the Spaced Repetition Method
Why it works: Instead of cramming, reviewing material at spaced intervals strengthens long-term memory.
How to do it: Review notes after one day, then a few days later, then a week later to reinforce learning.
2. Teach Someone Else
Why it works: The “Protégé Effect” shows that teaching forces you to organize your thoughts and recall key details.
How to do it: Explain the topic to a friend, family member, or even yourself out loud.
3. Use Active Recall
Why it works: Testing yourself strengthens memory and helps identify knowledge gaps.
How to do it: Instead of rereading notes, close the book and try to recall key concepts from memory.
4. Take Advantage of the Pomodoro Technique
Why it works: Short, focused study sessions with breaks improve concentration and prevent burnout.
How to do it: Study for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break, and repeat.
5. Connect New Information to What You Already Know
Why it works: Your brain remembers better when new concepts are linked to existing knowledge.
How to do it: Relate new facts to personal experiences or familiar subjects.
6. Use Mnemonics and Memory Aids
Why it works: Acronyms, rhymes, and visualization make information easier to recall.
How to do it: Try “HOMES” for the Great Lakes (Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, Superior).
7. Study in Different Locations
Why it works: Research shows that changing environments enhances memory retention.
How to do it: Rotate between your room, a library, and a coffee shop while studying.
8. Take Handwritten Notes
Why it works: Writing by hand engages the brain more deeply than typing.
How to do it: Rewrite key points from lectures or textbooks in your own words.
9. Get Enough Sleep
Why it works: Sleep solidifies memories and improves recall.
How to do it: Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep, especially before an exam.
10. Use Visualization Techniques
Why it works: The brain retains images better than words.
How to do it: Picture complex concepts as diagrams, mind maps, or stories.
11. Listen to the Right Study Music
Why it works: Instrumental or classical music enhances concentration without distractions.
How to do it: Try white noise, Lo-Fi beats, or binaural beats for focus.
12. Move While You Study
Why it works: Exercise boosts brain function and learning capacity.
How to do it: Walk around while reviewing flashcards or take breaks to stretch.
13. Test Yourself with Flashcards
Why it works: Self-quizzing strengthens memory retrieval.
How to do it: Use apps like Anki or Quizlet for digital flashcards.
14. Drink Water and Eat Brain-Boosting Foods
Why it works: Dehydration and poor nutrition impair cognitive function.
How to do it: Stay hydrated and snack on nuts, berries, and dark chocolate.
15. Reward Yourself After Study Sessions
Why it works: The brain responds well to positive reinforcement.
How to do it: Set study goals and reward yourself with breaks, treats, or fun activities.
