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The 9 Worst Study Strategies, Ranked
As a student, you want to make the most of your study time. But what if you're using study strategies that are actually doing more harm than good? In this blog post, we'll rank the 9 worst study strategies, from the ineffective to the harmful and unhealthy. We'll also provide you with better alternatives that will help you learn more effectively.
#9: Speeding Through Practice Questions
Practice questions are a great way to test your understanding of the material. But if you're just speeding through them without taking the time to think about the answers, you're not going to get much benefit from them. Instead, slow down and take your time with each question. Make sure you understand the question and the answer choices before you select an answer. And don't be afraid to look up the answers to questions that you don't know.
#8: Flashcards for Recognition, Not Recall
Flashcards can be a helpful study tool, but only if you're using them correctly. If you're just using flashcards to memorize information, you're not going to be able to recall it when you need it. Instead, use flashcards to practice recalling information. For example, you could write a question on one side of the card and the answer on the other side. Then, test yourself by trying to recall the answer without looking at the card.
#7: Studying in Larger Groups
Studying in a group can be helpful, but only if the group is small and focused. If you're in a large group, it's easy to get distracted and off-task. Instead, try studying with a small group of friends or classmates who are serious about learning. And make sure to set some ground rules for your study group, such as no phones or social media.
#6: Long Study Sessions Without Breaks
It's important to study for long periods of time, but it's also important to take breaks. If you study for too long without taking a break, you're going to start to lose focus and your productivity will decline. Instead, try studying for 25-30 minutes at a time, then take a 5-10 minute break. Get up and move around, or step outside for some fresh air. Taking breaks will help you stay focused and productive.
#5: Highlighting Your Textbook
Highlighting your textbook can be a helpful way to mark important information, but it's not a substitute for reading and understanding the material. If you're just highlighting text without actually reading it, you're not going to remember it. Instead, try reading your textbook actively. Take notes, summarize the information in your own words, and make connections between different concepts.
#4: Passively Rereading Notes
Rereading your notes can be a helpful way to review information, but it's not the most effective way to learn. If you're just passively rereading your notes, you're not going to be able to remember them. Instead, try actively engaging with your notes. Quiz yourself on the information, make flashcards, or create a mind map. Active engagement will help you remember the information more effectively.
#3: Using Someone Else's Notes
Using someone else's notes can be a helpful way to get started studying, but it's not a substitute for taking your own notes. If you're just relying on someone else's notes, you're not going to be able to understand the material as well. Instead, take your own notes during class or while you're reading your textbook. This will help you to process the information and remember it more effectively.
#2: Multitasking While Studying
Multitasking is a myth. When you try to do two things at once, you're not actually doing either one of them well. If you're trying to study while you're watching TV, listening to music, or browsing the internet, you're not going to be able to focus on the material. Instead, turn off all distractions and focus on your studies. You'll be more productive and you'll learn more.
#1: Cramming Overnight
Cramming overnight is the worst study strategy of all. When you cram, you're not giving yourself enough time to process the information and remember it. You're also more likely to make mistakes. Instead, start studying for your exams well in advance. Give yourself plenty of time to read the material, take notes, and practice what you've learned. Cramming will only lead to stress and disappointment.
Better Study Strategies
Now that you know the worst study strategies, you can start using better strategies that will help you learn more effectively. Here are a few tips:
- Read actively. Take notes, summarize the information in your own words, and make connections between different concepts.
- Practice recalling information. Use flashcards, quiz yourself, or create a mind map.
- Study in a quiet, distraction-free environment. Turn off your phone, close your social media tabs, and find a place where you can focus.
- Take breaks. Get up and move around, or step outside for some fresh air.
- Start studying early. Don't wait until the night before your exam to start studying. Give yourself plenty of time to learn the material.
By following these tips, you can improve your study habits and learn more effectively. Good luck!