Six healthy study habits
Building healthy study habits will make studying easier and more effective for you in the long run.
Starting now will set you up for success at every stage in your learning journey. Here are our top tips to start doing today.
1. Stick to a consistent schedule
- Revising at the same time each week helps you get used to focusing during those time slots, which can help you concentrate better. It also means you’re less likely to skip sessions when they’re embedded in your routine.
- Short bursts are better than cramming. Think strategically about when you can fit a half-hour or hour revision session into your weekly schedule.
2. Take regular breaks
- Taking regular breaks helps to prevent burnout and actually improves knowledge retention.
- During your breaks, leave screens behind, move around, and get yourself a drink and a snack.
3. Get enough sleep
- Sleep is crucial for memory consolidation. Without enough sleep, you’ll not only struggle to remember your revision, but also find motivation difficult. Aiming for 7-9 hours per night, depending on what your body needs, will help you perform better.
4. Stay hydrated and eat well
- Drink plenty of water and eat well. Both will help you concentrate better and feel more energised. Aim for eight glasses of water daily, and try brain-friendly snacks like nuts, fruit, or yoghurt.
- As tempting as it is to have caffeinated or sugary drinks, they can cause energy crashes.
5. Create a comfortable, distraction-free study space
- Depending on your home set-up, try to find a comfortable space to study where you can concentrate. If you have a desk, keep it tidy and well-lit. If you’re studying at the kitchen table, make sure to set up your space properly.
- Putting your phone away is helpful, or using it as a timer can stop you from scrolling. You can use your revision planner to motivate you too, ticking off topics as you become more confident.
6. Mix revision techniques
- Keep your revision fresh and mix up your techniques to stay engaged.
- It’s tempting to just read your notes, but try mixing it up. Use flashcards, teach others, take past papers, or draw mind maps. These methods can really boost your revision.
- This helps reduce mental fatigue and keeps your brain engaged.