Study Hacks for Faster Learning

Introduction

• Common distractions while studying: phone, snacks, procrastination.
• Shocking statistic: 90% of students study ineffectively.
• Objective: Study faster, retain more information, and have time for leisure.

The Expectation Hack

• Trick your brain into studying faster:
  • Your brain is lazy; it expands work to fill the time given.
  • Parkinson's Law: Work expands to fill the time available for its completion.
• Solution: Set short study sprints.
  • Instead of long sessions, study for just 20 minutes.
  • Bonus: Write down specific goals for your study session for clarity.

The 80-20 Rule

• Not all study topics are equal; focus on the most important ones.
• 80-20 Rule: 20% of study materials yield 80% of results.
  • Identify what will be on the test (use past papers, teacher guidance).
• Strategy:
  • Do a past exam paper to identify key topics.
  • Concentrate 80% of your time on these important topics.

The Timer Method

• Activate speed mode:
  • Use a 30-minute timer to study intensely.
  • Take a 5-minute break afterward (move/stretch).
  • Repeat to maintain focus and avoid burnout.
• Bonus: Use the Forest app to motivate focus through virtual rewards.

The Feynman Technique

• Study like a genius:

  • Teach concepts to someone else, simplifying language.
  • Identify and fill gaps in your understanding.
  • Steps to follow:
    1. Choose a concept.
    2. Explain it as if to a 5-year-old.
    3. Identify gaps, relearn if needed.
    4. Simplify explanations further.

• Bonus: Verbally explaining or writing down concepts reinforces understanding.

Active Recall

• Memory cheat code:

  • Stop passive reading; start testing yourself.

• Methods:

  • Recall key points without looking at notes.
  • Use flashcards for self-testing.

• Bonus: Use the blurting technique - write everything you remember after reading, then check what you missed.

Importance of Sleep and Exercise

• Your brain consolidates learned information during sleep.
  • Recommendation: Get 7-8 hours of sleep; avoid all-nighters.
• Exercise boosts memory retention.
  • Even a brief walk can aid in information retention.

Final Takeaway

• Six-step formula to study fast and smart:
  1. Set short study sprints (20-30 minutes).
  2. Use the 80-20 rule for effective studying.
  3. Use timers for focused study sessions.
  4. Teach concepts to others (Feynman technique).
  5. Use active recall to test yourself.
  6. Prioritize sleep and exercise for optimal brain function.

Challenge

• Pick one hack to try today and share the results in comments.
  • Engage with the audience to unlock potential.

Conclusion

• Knowledge isn't power; applied knowledge is.
• Study smart, not hard!