Concentrate intently on your study materials for a reasonable period of time (a half-hour, for instance), then take a step back, pull out a sheet of paper, and try to summarize what you’ve just learned in your own words. You may be amazed at how much of the material you actually recall and understand. You can also try summarizing the entire study session the day after.
If you’re reading about how to do a simple science experiment, try doing the actual experiment. Create games, songs, images, or other types of mnemonic devices to help you associate and recall the information.
Place your pencils, notebook, folders, textbook, calculator, and any other important study materials within easy reach so you don’t lose focus while reaching or looking for them.
Try new things. Create. Debate. Ruminate. Daydream. Keep your brain working and it will work better when you need it for studying.
Actively acquire information instead of passively receiving it. This is the difference between taking a cooking class and watching a cooking show, or attending a political candidate forum and checking your news feed.
Maximize the brain benefits when your exercise — when out walking, focus intently on the surrounding environment and try to mentally recreate it when you get back home. [11] X Research source
Don’t study with either an empty stomach or a fully loaded one. Either scenario can be distracting. Have a light (and healthy) meal or snack instead.
Playing a musical instrument is one of the most obvious — and enjoyable — ways to stimulate both the creative and logical aspects of your brainpower. To play effectively, you have to have precise timing and fine motor movements, but at the same time be able to improvise and think ahead. [14] X Research source While the science behind many supposed left- or right-brain boosting activities is limited at best, doing things like juggling, playing board games, or attempting simple activities with your non-dominant hand will certainly give you a mental workout. [15] X Research source
