Although typing your notes can be quicker and easier, writing your notes by hand may help you absorb and remember the material better. [2] X Research source
If you’re too shy to raise your hand and ask questions during class, try approaching your teacher after class or sending them an email. If you’re in college or university, your instructor may have office hours when you can ask them questions and discuss the material with them one-on-one.
Not only will your grades suffer if you don’t do your assignments, but you also won’t learn as much!
If you do have to miss class, reach out to your teacher or a classmate to find out what you missed so that you can review it. Someone might be willing to share their notes with you. \Sometimes you may want to skip class but you need to stay because your attendance counts as part of your grade, let your teacher know if you can’t be there. They may be able to excuse you that day or offer a way to make it up.
Studies show that students who participate in extracurricular activities have better attendance, get higher grades, and are more likely to continue their education than students who don’t. [5] X Research source
Making flashcards Having a friend ask you questions and trying to answer them Taking advantage of quizzes and knowledge checks in your textbooks Taking practice tests or quizzes, if your teacher provides them
For example, you might study at a desk or table in your bedroom, find a favorite corner at the library, or work in a quiet coffee shop. Just be careful not to get too comfortable! If you study in bed or on a comfy couch, you may be tempted to fall asleep.
If you’re too tempted to play with your phone, try installing a productivity app that will limit your access during study time, like Offtime or Moment. If you’re studying at home, let other people in your home know that you need quiet time without distractions while you’re studying or doing homework.
During your break, you can get up and walk around, have a healthy snack, watch a short video, or even put your head down for a quick power nap. Going for even a short walk can give your brain a boost and improve your problem-solving and creative thinking skills![9] X Research source
If you have extracurricular activities, like clubs or sports, write those down as well. You can use either a paper planner or a planner app, like Any. do or Planner Pro.
For example, you might schedule in 2 hours for studying after your last class on Monday, followed by half an hour for tidying up and 1 hour to work on hobbies, play games, or spend time with friends.
You can use an app like Google Calendar to set reminders for yourself so that you’ll get an alert on your phone or computer when an important date or deadline is getting close.
For example, if you have a big math test coming up tomorrow, you might put reviewing for the math test at the top of your list. Reviewing this week’s French vocabulary words can go lower on the list.
For example, if you have a big math test coming up tomorrow, you might put reviewing for the math test at the top of your list. Reviewing this week’s French vocabulary words can go lower on the list.
To keep track of your notes, handouts, and assignments, try using a binder with different sections for each class. Set up a tidy, designated spot for doing school work so that your books and papers don’t end up scattered in different places.
To help you sleep better, establish a relaxing bedtime routine, like doing light yoga, meditating, or taking a warm bath before bed. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Practice good sleep hygiene by turning off bright screens at least half an hour before bed, avoiding caffeine and other stimulants late in the day, and keeping your room quiet, dark, and comfortable at night.
Fresh fruits or vegetables Whole grains Lean proteins, like chicken breast or fish Healthy fats, like those found in fish, nuts, and vegetable oils
How much water you need depends on your age. For example, if you’re 9-12 years old, aim to drink 7 glasses of water a day. Older kids and adults should try to drink 8 glasses a day. [19] X Research source If it’s hot or you’re doing a lot of physical activity, you may need to drink more. Always listen to your body and drink if you feel thirsty. Avoid drinking a lot of sugary drinks and caffeinated beverages, which can give you a temporary energy boost but will ultimately leave you feeling drained and tired.
Doing yoga or meditating Going for walks and spending time outdoors Spending time with friends, family, and pets Working on hobbies and creative projects Listening to music Watching movies or reading books
For example, after an hour of studying, you might reward yourself with a favorite snack or a few minutes of funny videos on YouTube. If you do well on a big test, you could celebrate by going out for pizza with your friends.
For example, instead of thinking, “I hate math! I’ll never be good at it,” try replacing that thought with “This is really challenging, but if I work hard, I’ll keep getting better at it!” Scientists have found that keeping a positive attitude may actually help your brain’s memory center work better!
Sometimes just talking to a friend about how you’re feeling can help you feel better. Don’t be afraid to ask for practical support, either. For example, you could say, “Mom, I’m really stressing about this test. Can you take a few minutes and quiz me with some questions from the review sheet?”
