Efficient Study Techniques for Better Grades

Introduction

• Two Student Types:
  • Student A: Studies long hours, highlights notes, rereads textbooks, uses flashcards.
  • Student B: Efficient 2-hour study session, strategic review, minimal time wasted.
  • Outcome: Student B achieves better grades due to efficiency.

Tips for Effective Studying

1. Focus on Study Quality, Not Duration

• Disconnect from Hours: Don’t fixate on time spent studying; focus on study methods.
• Measure Effectiveness: Quiz yourself, teach others, tackle weak concepts first.

2. Backward Reading Strategy

• For Last-minute Cramming: Start at chapter summaries and key points, then scan headings and bold terms.
• First Pass: Get a high-level understanding.
• Second Pass: Skim sections, read first and last paragraphs.
• Detailed Reading: Only if time permits.

3. Batch Tasks to Minimize Transition Costs

• Context Switching: Different tasks require different mindsets, e.g., reading vs. writing.
• Batching: Group similar tasks together to reduce mental transitions.
• Easy Tasks First: Within a batch, start with the easiest task to ease mental shift.

4. Set Time Constraints

• Parkinson’s Law: Work expands to fill the time available.
• Set Timers: Allocate reduced time for tasks to increase efficiency.
• Example: Gradual reduction of exam time by a teacher, improving test-taking efficiency.

5. Leverage AI Tools

• Grammarly: Use for brainstorming, drafting research plans, outlines, and ensuring clarity and tone in writing.
• Features: Grammar checks, tone adjustments, plagiarism detection.

6. Avoid Idling

• Sunk Cost Fallacy: Don’t waste time on a problem you can’t solve immediately.
• Move On: Answer questions out of order; tackle easier problems first.

7. Complete Mindless Work First

• Task Types: Fixed tasks (e.g., flashcards) vs. Variable tasks (e.g., essay writing).
• Fixed Tasks First: These take a concrete amount of time and don’t expand.
• Visualize Task Management: Use visual aids for understanding task prioritization.

8. Tag Important Notes

• Efficient Note Review: Tag notes during lectures for easy reference during study.
• Post-Lecture: Tag notes after class if missed during lecture.

Conclusion

• Engagement: Encourage feedback on study tips and student experiences.
• Community: Join Discord, newsletter, and subscribe for more tips.