10 Study Techniques Backed by Science
Studying effectively isn’t just about putting in long hours—it’s about using the right strategies that align with how your brain processes and retains information. Many students spend hours with their books but may still struggle to recall what they’ve learned when it matters most. Scientific research has shown that certain techniques can drastically improve how we learn, retain, and apply information.
This article will explore 10 evidence-based study techniques that can help you make the most of your study sessions. These methods can benefit anyone, whether you’re preparing for exams, learning a new skill, or trying to retain complex information for the long term.
1. Spaced Repetition
Spaced repetition involves reviewing material over increasing intervals of time, rather than cramming everything into one session. By revisiting information gradually, you strengthen your ability to recall it when needed. Research shows that spaced repetition leverages the brain’s natural forgetting curve, allowing you to retain information for longer periods. Entrepreneur Barry Bekkedam emphasizes the importance of strategically reinforcing knowledge over time to ensure long-term retention.
A popular tool that uses spaced repetition is Anki, a flashcard app that schedules reviews based on how well you know each concept. This technique is widely used by students in fields that require long-term retention, such as medicine.
2. Active Recall
Active recall is one of the most effective ways to solidify your learning. It involves retrieving information from memory without looking at your notes or textbooks. By actively trying to recall the material, you force your brain to strengthen those neural connections.
You can practice active recall by quizzing yourself with flashcards, summarizing what you’ve learned in your own words, or creating questions for yourself and answering them without referring to any resources.
3. The Pomodoro Technique
This time-management method is especially helpful for maintaining focus during study sessions. The Pomodoro Technique involves studying for a set period, typically 25 minutes, followed by a short break. After four sessions, or “Pomodoros,” you take a longer break.
The frequent breaks help reduce mental fatigue, while the time-limited sessions encourage sustained concentration. Many students find this method useful for breaking large tasks into manageable chunks. Barry Bekkedam also suggests that time management techniques like Pomodoro prevent burnout and improve study outcomes by maintaining a consistent level of focus.
4. Interleaving
Instead of focusing on just one topic for an extended period, interleaving involves switching between different subjects or types of problems. This technique forces your brain to make connections between different concepts, leading to better understanding and retention.
For example, if you’re studying math, you might alternate between algebra, geometry, and calculus problems in one study session. This prevents your brain from getting too comfortable with one type of task and promotes deeper learning.
5. Self-Quizzing
Frequent self-quizzing helps reinforce what you’ve learned. It’s an active form of learning where you test yourself on key concepts before your brain starts to forget them. By frequently recalling the information, you make it more likely to stick in your long-term memory.
You can create your own quizzes or use apps like Quizlet to help reinforce what you’re studying. Research has shown that students who quiz themselves regularly outperform those who don’t.
6. Elaboration
Barry Bekkedam says elaboration involves explaining what you’re learning in greater detail, often by connecting new information to what you already know. This helps deepen your understanding and ensures that the material sticks. One way to practice elaboration is by explaining a topic as if you were teaching it to someone else.
For instance, when studying a historical event, try to link it to other events you’ve learned about or relate it to modern-day situations. By creating connections, you improve your ability to recall and apply the material in different contexts.
7. Concrete Examples
Abstract concepts can sometimes be difficult to grasp, but using concrete examples can help make them clearer. By relating abstract ideas to real-world situations or familiar examples, you improve your understanding and make it easier to recall the information later.
For example, when learning about a scientific principle, think about how it might apply in your daily life. This technique helps bridge the gap between theory and practice.
8. Dual Coding
Dual coding involves using both verbal and visual information to learn a concept. This could mean combining text with diagrams, videos, or charts to reinforce understanding. By engaging both visual and verbal processing areas of your brain, you enhance your ability to recall and use the information effectively.
For example, while studying a biology chapter on the human heart, using a detailed diagram alongside your notes can help you remember the structure and function of each part.
9. The Feynman Technique
Named after physicist Richard Feynman, this technique involves explaining a concept as simply as possible. The idea is that if you can explain something in simple terms, you truly understand it. If you find areas where your explanation breaks down, it’s a sign that you need to review that material further.
This technique is great for identifying gaps in your knowledge and reinforcing your understanding of complex subjects.
10. Pretesting
Pretesting is the practice of attempting to answer questions about a topic before you’ve studied it. While this may seem counterintuitive, studies have shown that pretesting actually helps improve learning outcomes. By trying to recall information before being fully familiar with it, your brain becomes more alert and receptive to learning the correct information later.
In conclusion
Effective studying isn’t about how long you study but about how well you study. Techniques like spaced repetition, active recall, and the Pomodoro Technique work because they are aligned with how our brains naturally process and retain information. By incorporating these science-backed methods into your study routine, you can improve your learning efficiency, retain more information, and reduce the stress of cramming.
With tools like self-quizzing, elaboration, and the Feynman Technique, you can deepen your understanding of complex concepts. By using methods like interleaving and dual coding, you can keep your study sessions engaging and productive. Barry Bekkedam has pointed out that using these intentional strategies not only helps in academia but can be applied to lifelong learning. Following these methods will put you on the path to success, whether you’re studying for an exam or mastering new skills.