Building Strong Study Habits: Back-to-School Edition

Starting a brand-new school year can bring about a mix of excitement and nerves. Whether you attend school in-person or online, one thing remains universally true: Strong study habits are your compass to navigate the academic terrain. As you work your way through the first few months of the school year, make smart studying a habit using these five tips:

Schedule your study time.  

Making a study schedule may seem boring, but it can make a world of difference. Pick a specific time every day to set aside just for studying and think of it like an appointment that you can’t skip. This routine not only ingrains the habit but also shields you from distractions. Joining a study group or scheduling weekly online tutoring sessions can be helpful in creating this structure because others will be there to keep you accountable.

Focus on active learning.

Now that we’ve determined when you’ll learn, let’s talk about how you learn. Active learning is the secret sauce for retaining information. Unlike passive learning, where you merely consume information, active learning engages you in the process. Consider activities such as taking notes, crafting study guides, or teaching others what you’ve learned. This approach creates lasting connections between concepts and enhances your overall comprehension. 

Create the ideal study environment. 

Your study environment profoundly impacts your productivity. Seek out a setting that resonates with you, whether it’s a serene library, a bustling coffee shop, or your cozy nook at home. Get comfy! This environment should be devoid of distractions and equipped with all necessary materials within arm’s reach—textbooks, highlighters, paper, and more. Maintaining an organized and comfortable study space ensures your study sessions are not only effective but enjoyable.  

Take breaks. 

Nobody wants to spend hours studying without a break! It’s essential to give your brain some rest. Practice the art of taking well-timed breaks by aiming for short respites every 45-60 minutes. During these breaks, engage in something refreshing—a leisurely walk, a quick stretch, or some soul-soothing music. These breaks are essential to avoid burnout while recharging your focus and energy.

Build a support system.  

Remember, you don’t have to go it alone. Creating a strong support system is vital for motivation and focus. Consider working with a professional tutor—whether its math, science, or another subject, tutors can help make challenging concepts simple and easy to understand. And joining a study group with your classmates or asking your teacher for help can transform your studying experience by making learning more fun and collaborative.

Building good study habits is an investment in your academic success. There are countless benefits of developing strong study habits, such as better grades, more time for extracurriculars, less stress, and a major boost in confidence. Stick to these simple tips, and you’re taking concrete steps towards achieving your educational goals and rocking the school year ahead.