How to study smarter

By: The Lion Team

Studying for a long time does not mean that the study schedule is effective. Studying smarter can be accomplished through techniques that lead to efficient learning. 
Here is a list of some don'ts:

1. Leaving devices with notifications on and next to you. 
   
2.  Reading is not studying: reading the text or notes can help recall information; however, it does not mean the content will be remembered for a long time. 
   
3. Do not give yourself breaks; this causes mental exhaustion more easily.
   
4. Refrain from multitasking; study one subject at a time. Multitasking has been proven to not be efficient and only shows negative results. 
   

Here is what you should do:

1. Spaced repetition: This method helps recall information for a much longer time. Read our article on How to create a study schedule to learn how this method can be applied. 
   
2. Make flashcards and test yourself: This technique actively recalls information. You review the content that you are good at already, much less the content that you have forgotten. This way, students can adapt their studying time based on recalled information. 
   
3. Become a teacher: One of the best ways to memorise content after learning it is by teaching someone else a simplified version of the topic or speaking aloud.
   
4. Practice using past papers and mark schemes. Knowing which content was learned and what needed improvement is great for building revision plans. 
   
5. Study space: Read our article on How to create a study space to determine the best place to study and focus. 
   
6. Pomodoro Method: This method works for the majority. Essentially, you study for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break, and repeat the cycle. It is recommended that you study for up to 90 minutes with a 15-minute break. Measure how much time you can study and build your schedule according to it. The pause between the next task allows rewinding time before studying for the next subject and increases efficiency. 
   
7. Mix the topics while studying: It forces the brain to actively think as the content is out of order. 
   
8. Start with the hardest subject: When starting to study, motivation is the highest, so when you study hard and get tired, when it comes to the easy subjects, you continue with motivation and do not need to work as much. 
   
9. Find the method best for you; it needs to be a way of active recall. ​