Key Study Tips for Acing Exams

Introduction

• The speaker is a computer science student at Yale.
• The video is aimed at helping students achieve an A+ on exams through effective study techniques.
• The speaker has tried various methods and shares three primary techniques that work.

1. Active Recall

• Definition: Learning by answering questions instead of passive reading.
• Forgetting Curve: Information is quickly forgotten without practice.
• Methods:
  • Quizlet: Transform notes into flashcards and practice like a game.
    • Use AI tools like ChatGPT to create questions from notes.
  • Past Paper Exams:
    • Study using old exam papers; most exam questions are similar.
    • Avoid looking at answers immediately; try to answer on your own first.
  • Feynman Technique:
    • Teach the material in simple terms.
    • Explain concepts as if to a fifth grader.
    • Can be done alone using recordings.

2. Spaced Repetition

• Works well with active recall.
• Technique: Study material over increasing intervals to enhance long-term memory.
• Implementation:
  • Repeat studying the same material (e.g., flashcards or past papers) three times.
  • Spread studying across different days to allow for memory processing.
  • Example Schedule: Study a paper tomorrow, a week later, and on the day before the exam.

3. Priming and Optimized Breaks

• Priming: Manipulate your mindset to improve focus and productivity.
  • Visualization: Close eyes, visualize success and understanding.
  • Music: Listen to music that energizes and relaxes you (jazz, 432 Hz, classical, etc.).
• Optimized Breaks:
  • Time spent studying is not directly proportional to knowledge gained.
  • Prefer focused study sessions over long, unfocused ones.
  • Use short naps or NSDR (Non-Sleep Deep Rest) to recharge.

Conclusion

• Combining active recall, spaced repetition, priming, and optimized breaks leads to exam success.
• Encourages engaging with the content and adopting these techniques for better study outcomes.