Study Hacks: How Can They Be Effective?

By Janessa C.

Studying smarter, not harder, is the key to academic success. Proven study hacks like optimizing your environment, using memory techniques, and managing distractions can make all the difference. With the right techniques, students can maximize their academic performance while reducing stress and burnout. Blane D. (10) says “avoiding burnout by taking effective breaks will help you greatly.”

Finding a quiet, organized space boosts focus. Xavier W. (10) says they "feel most focused in a quiet area at home or in the library." The Psychological Society confirms that spaces like these provide a calm area free from interruptions, helping to maintain a consistent workflow. Studies from the Journal of Environmental Psychology have shown that studying in quiet, structured spaces improves cognitive performance and memory recall, during multiple studies. 

Passive and late timed review is less effective. Consistent recall strengthens memory, and spaced repetition prevents forgetting. According to Psychological Science, “Retrieval practice produces more learning than passive review, and the benefits increase over time” Instead of passively re-reading notes, active recall forces you to retrieve information from memory, strengthening neural pathways. Spaced repetition involves reviewing material over time, which prioritizes long-term retention. Tools like Blooket and Quizlet use these effectively. 

An effective way of studying is writing things repeatedly is a powerful study technique because it forces the brain to actively retrieve and process information. Blane D. says “I use writing or reading things at least a few times a day to process information.”  This repetition strengthens memory pathways and improves long-term retention. Research shows that handwriting, in particular, engages more productive processes than simply reading or typing, making learning more effective. Ineffective studying gives students a hard time in school because of using time ineffectively, consider these tips when studying for an next exam and possibly have a higher success and confidence rate then lower.