By: Erin Watts

With AP exams and finals coming up, most students will be studying for hours on hours. Everyone studies and learns differently, but what is the most effective way to study? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! First– set the environment! Have a good night’s sleep, listen to calming music, get rid of distractions and snack on “smart” healthy foods! Here are some of the most effective study techniques:

  • SQ3R method:
    • This is a five-step comprehension process. It stands for survey, question, read, recite, review. It helps students identify information and retain information from textbooks. 
  •  Retrieval Practice
    • Retrieval practice is remembering information at a later time. This improves learning rather than just looking in a textbook. Use practice tests, make your own questions and use flashcards!
  • The Feynman Technique
    • Write the subject/concept at the top of the paper. After that, start writing as if you were teaching it and explaining it to someone else. Review what you have written and correct any areas you missed or wrote incorrectly. This method helps you learn in simple and plain terminologies.   
  •  Exercise Before You Study
    • Exercise fights fatigue and increases energy levels. It does not have to be anything extravagant, just something to get your heart pumping! Exercising helps improve memory and cognitive performance. It also releases endorphins, improving mood and reducing stress. 
  •  Study Before Bed
    • Sleep is crucial to good studying and brain function. If you study before bed, it helps improve recall. Once asleep, your brain organizes your memories. Do not pull an all-nighter! Instead, study a few hours before bed and you’ll be prepared for the next day!

Studying does not have to be hard or painful! Find a technique that works best for you and stick with it! Keep at it, and pass those exams!

Read more study tips here: https://www.usa.edu/blog/study-techniques/