With finals around the corner, studying a ton of material at once (let alone cram it into as little time as possible), can feel overwhelming. Before college, I used to find myself buried in all-nighter after all-nighter reviewing material because I had procrastinated it to the very end. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
But this mentality is nothing more than a vicious cycle—like most bad habits are. The most important thing college has taught me is how to be a more productive student. Applying this awful all-nighter mentality in college only left me with bad grades and some serious under-eye bags. Today, I can effectively organize myself and my classes to the point where I no longer feel any pent-up dread to accompany studying.
In fact, I feel relieved and peaceful when I remember that there is a designated time and place for all the material I have to cover. It’s not always easy, and sometimes there are certain things I miss out on because I have a schedule to follow. Eventually, though, once the planning became natural, I was able to work around my social life and personal obligations.
Here’s how to start creating productive study habits so you can make the most of your time!
1. Plan When + Where You’re Going To Study
Set aside a designated weekday, time, and place to study. By having these set in stone, you’ll be much more relaxed when you approach the material. You’ll also have the benefit of routine on your side, meaning you’ll know what to expect as the day rolls around.
2. Start With Your Most Difficult Subject
Don’t shy away from the class that’s confusing you. Instead, strip it of its mystery by diving into it headfirst. This way, you’ll be able to use your fresh brainpower to tackle the material and have plenty of time to ask for extra help from the professor should you need it.
3. Outline + Rewrite Your Notes
Class notes are taken in a hurry and can sometimes feel convoluted to reread. Take some time out of your study session to diligently outline and rewrite your notes to make them more concise. By doing this, you’re also subconsciously relearning the material by rewriting it.
4. Bring Everything You Need, Nothing You Don’t
Make your study space sacred. If you know you’re going to feel distracted by bringing a friend along, don’t do it. Tell everyone where you’ll be, then turn your phone on DND and put it away. This way, you’ll be free to concentrate with no distractions.
5. Change Your Mindset
Lastly, change your mindset about studying and avoid thinking negatively about your study space. Instead, remind yourself how grateful you’re going to feel on exam day when your grade reflects the dedication you set aside to truly learn the material.
How do you plan to incorporate these study habits into your routine?
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