Efficient Study Techniques

Jul 8, 2024

Lecture Notes: Efficient Study Techniques

Personal Experience

  • Graduated in the top 5% of university without excessive studying
  • Emphasizes studying smart over studying hard

Common Misconceptions

  • High grades require constant study and sacrificing other areas of life
  • False belief that only hard work will lead to high grades

Key Strategies for Efficient Studying

Spread Out Studying

  • Start studying at the beginning of the semester
  • Set daily study hours: 6, 8, or 10 hours (example: 8 hours treated like a full-time job)
  • Background reading, past papers, documentaries, and YouTube videos
  • Maintain consistent studying hours throughout the semester
  • Avoid cramming and maintain a stress-free approach

Eliminate Pseudo-Studying

  • Pseudo-studying: Studying without truly engaging with the material
  • Focus on tasks that directly improve exam performance (e.g., past papers)
  • Avoid over-preparing assignments and limit unnecessary repetitive tasks
  • Constantly evaluate the impact of each study task on overall grades

Active Engagement

  • Avoid passive studying like only reading/re-reading notes
  • Engage actively: make connections to lectures, form examples, ask questions
  • Techniques:
    • Create Q&A sessions
    • Teach the material to someone else
    • Create concept maps and diagrams
    • Active recall: read, close book, write down information, check for gaps

Avoid Multitasking

  • Multitasking reduces efficiency and lowers GPA
  • Eliminate distractions (turn off phone, avoid social media)
  • Use focusing apps (e.g., Focus To Do) to maintain concentration

Distributed Practice Technique

  • Space out studying over several short periods (days or weeks)
  • Study each subject for short periods daily
  • Improves information recall and processing
  • Concept proposed in 1932 by Cecil Mace

Final Thoughts

  • Studying smart is crucial to achieving high grades without excessive effort
  • Efficient study techniques can reduce study time while improving grades
  • "Transform Your Grades in 30 Days" course available for those interested