Story By: Marlayna Freitas, World Issues Editor
Many students struggle with the dilemma of how to actually study. Even the most diligent of students may not be taking advantage of ways that can help them study better, and make their studying more effective.
The first question is when is the best time of day to study? Studies show there are two optimal times of the day to study. 10am to 2pm and 4pm to 10pm. These are the times when the brain is most alert and ready to intake information. Studies also show that studying before bed helps the brian retain information better because of the way the memories consolidate. There is also the question of when should one start studying? Ideally one should start studying five day before their test or assignment. This gives students time to test their knowledge and to correct and re-learn anything necessary. It is also not helpful to study right before a test. Brains also need rest especially right before a test when lots of information will need to be accessed.
Many confuse studying with simply re-reading notes. This is not an effective way to study. One must apply what they have been learning to ensure they fully know the information. The most effective way to study anything is repetition. Most study practices include reviewing information, applying that information in a test of knowledge, grading oneself to analyze mistakes, and repeating. Practice makes progress, and repetition makes it so one cannot miss.
Some people don’t realize just how important the place of study is. It is important to study in a place with little distractions and to minimize other distractions like phones. This keeps one focused on the content they need to intake. It is also important to study in a well lit and comfortable space. This helps keep people focused instead of being distracted by comfort levels or struggling to see what they are actually studying. Good lighting also helps keep morale high instead of feeling like studying is an unbearable chore.
As one creates a healthy studying environment, a good study routine at optimal times of the day, and applies repetition into their routine, it is also very important to have breaks. Humans are not robots and need to take breaks. Just as the brain should rest before a test, the brain should also have time to rest while studying to effectively process information. Practicing good study habits can greatly change and improve one's studying experience and grades.
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