For example, if you’re trying to remember vocabulary for a language class, don’t try to memorize more than 7-8 words at a time. If you’re studying from a textbook, it can be helpful to work with the structure of the book. Textbook chapters are usually divided into shorter sections that each provide a manageable amount of information. Focus on understanding and remembering one section before moving on to the next.
For example, memorize a poem, then move on to studying some algebra rules. Try spending about 50 minutes on each topic, then take a break for about 15 minutes before going on to the next one. Taking breaks will boost your productivity and help you concentrate. [3] X Research source
If you can, take notes with a pen and paper. Writing notes by hand engages your brain in a different way than typing on a keyboard, and makes you take a little more time to think about what you are writing down. If you like to doodle while you take notes, that’s great! Doodling can help you pay attention and retain information. [5] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source
Quizlet can be a great help for quizzing yourself, either alone or with a friend. You can create your own digital flashcards based on your course material, or you can use flashcards prepared by other members. One way to test yourself is to ask yourself basic questions about the material as you go. For example, “What is the main point of this section of the text?”[7] X Trustworthy Source American Psychological Association Leading scientific and professional organization of licensed psychologists Go to source Self-quizzing not only helps you get a better idea of how well you understand the material, but it also forces your brain to work a little bit harder to remember.
When you’re spacing out your review sessions, keep the intervals short at first, then gradually increase them. For example, if you studied something one day, sleep on it and do a little review the next day. Test yourself a couple days later, and then again a week after that. Try a study timer app like SuperMemo or Ultimate Study Timer to help you schedule your study intervals.
The most common mnemonic devices are creating acronyms that represent the words you’re trying to remember, making an acrostic sentence where the first letter of each word represents what you’re trying to remember, and using rhymes to remember. However, you can also use image association, especially if you’re a visual person. Music is also a powerful memory trigger, so putting the information to a melody can be very helpful. There’s a reason countless generations of kids have been taught the alphabet in song form! Your memory cue doesn’t have to make sense to anyone but you. In fact, the weirder and more specific it is, the better. For example, if you’re trying to remember the ancient Greek word hepomai (“to follow”), you might picture a cool cartoon cat singing “I’m hep! Oh my! Everybody follow me!”
Don’t nap for more than 20-30 minutes during the day. Avoid using stimulants, such as caffeine or nicotine, 4-6 hours before bedtime. [14] X Research source Having more than 1-2 alcoholic drinks in the evening can also disrupt your sleep. [15] X Research source Exercise at least 10 minutes a day to improve the quality of your sleep. Avoid eating evening meals that might cause heartburn or indigestion, such as spicy, acidic, or fatty foods. Develop a regular, relaxing bedtime routine. Put away your computer or smartphone, do some meditation or light stretching, and take a warm shower or bath. You might also try reading to help you fall asleep. Set aside about 30 minutes before bedtime each night to unwind. [16] X Research source
Some healthy fats, like DHA, may actually improve your memory. Eat plenty of fish, or take fish oil supplements to get more DHA in your diet. [18] X Trustworthy Source EatRight. org Organization associated with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics providing advice about food, health, and fitness Go to source
Good study spaces could include a desk in your room, a study carrel or cubicle in your school library, or a table in a quiet coffee shop.
If you have to study around other people, such as family or roommates, let them know in advance that you need to be left alone for a certain period of time while you study.
If you come to associate being in bed with studying, this can also make it harder for you to fall asleep there at night.
