Why most study habits don't work
Re-reading notes and highlighting feel productive. Research consistently shows they're among the least effective study methods that exist. The problem is that passive review creates the illusion of learning without actual retention.
The key insight from learning science: retrieval practice (forcing your brain to actively recall information) creates dramatically stronger memories than passively reading the same material.
Active recall — the most powerful technique
Instead of re-reading a chapter, close the book and write down everything you can remember. Then check what you missed. Repeat.
Use flashcards with Anki (free)
Anki is a free flashcard app that uses spaced repetition automatically. Make cards for key concepts, formulas, definitions, and anything you need to memorize. Use it daily, even for 15 minutes.
Brain dumps after every lecture
Within 30 minutes of class ending, close your notes and write down everything you remember. This forces recall and shows you exactly what didn't stick while it's still fresh.
Practice problems over reading solutions
In math and science especially: do the problem yourself first, even if you have no idea. Looking at a solution without attempting the problem is almost useless for actual learning.
Spaced repetition
Review material at increasing intervals: one day after learning it, then three days later, then one week, then two weeks. This exploits the forgetting curve to permanently anchor information in long-term memory.
- Anki handles spacing automatically. Just do the cards it shows you each day.
- Start studying material at least 2 weeks before any major exam
- Cramming the night before works short-term and fades within 48 hours. Don't rely on it for cumulative finals.
The Pomodoro technique
Work in 25-minute focused blocks, then take a mandatory 5-minute break. Every 4 blocks, take a 20-minute break. This prevents mental fatigue and makes large tasks feel manageable.
- During the 25 minutes: phone face down, notifications off, one task only
- During the 5-minute break: stand up, move, get water, anything non-screen
- Use the Pomodoro timer on the Tools page
Putting it all together
A study session that actually works looks like this:
- Start with a 2-minute review of what you studied last time (active recall, no notes)
- Do 1–2 Pomodoro blocks of new material using active recall techniques
- End with a brain dump of everything you absorbed in this session
- Before you close your notes: schedule your next study session