Studying is not a tedious task. Our brain can potentially memorize 2.5 petabytes of information, which is roughly the equivalent of 3 million hours of YouTube videos.
In order to use some of that staggering capacity a little more effectively when you learn, here are some tips that are based on widely accepted research by neuroscientists and learning experts.
- Spaced Repetition
To maximize your learning, study short but often. Neuroscientists proved that synapses in your brain grow mainly at night when you are asleep. This means that it is more productive to study regularly with sleeping breaks in between. Try it! You’ll be surprised by your progress within just weeks.
- Designated Study Space
Everyone has their own style of studying. Staying focused when you’re at home is sometimes easier said than done. Distractions can challenge your focus, especially if you’re in a setting with a lot of noise—like a television or people who aren’t also studying. Find somewhere that you’re comfortable and free from disturbances!
- Good Night’s Sleep
Sleep and dreams are vital to processing and storing new information. A Harvard study showed that students who had a good night’s sleep remembered their study materials 35% better than those who studied in the morning to take a test in the evening.
- Focus
You’ll be more alert and motivated if your stomach isn’t empty! Make sure you eat a good meal before you dive into the books or snack while you study so you can avoid tummy grumbles, headaches and a lack of focus that hunger may cause. Also, don’t forget to drink plenty of water so you stay hydrated and alert.
- Exercise, Meditate and Converse
There are few activities proven to grow your brain however physical exercise, regular meditation, and good conversations apparently do exactly that. They lead to the creation of new neurons inside your brain and therefore grow its potential.
- Fuel Yourself
You’ll be more alert and motivated if your stomach isn’t empty! Make sure you eat a good meal before you dive into the books or snack while you study so you can avoid tummy grumbles, headaches and a lack of focus that hunger may cause. Also, don’t forget to drink plenty of water so you stay hydrated and alert.
- Stay Organized!
Keeping track of your time for study sessions and lesson completions will help you stay on top of your courses. You can use apps on your computer or phone or pick up a planner that you can customize to include your to-do lists and coursework. Making lists every day will help you come up with a plan and stick with it!
- Instant Self-Test
After you study finish up with a quick quiz. Immediate recall in form of a test or short summary on what you’ve just learned can increase retention by as much as 30%. Because it is much harder for your brain to reflect than to read, that extra effort creates deeper traces in your memory.
