Studying is not always as simple as sitting down with a pen and paper and taking notes; it requires skills and techniques to get the job done. While studying methods should be personalised to suit each individual, some tips will benefit every student. These will help you maximise the time dedicated to studying and reduce negative connotations associated with the activity.

Effective study starts with having the right mindset, and that takes place before you even sit down. Studying is not a race or a last-minute cramming session to see positive results; create a timetable to manage your schedule and set yourself up for success. A large part of your routine should be self-care; eat healthily, take breaks and exercise, and in turn, your body and mind will return the favour.  

Take Breaks

There is nothing better than taking a well-deserved break during a study session. If you’re planning a long study session (approx. 6-8 hours), you will need to schedule regular breaks to refresh your brain and body. Planning your breaks and setting clear boundaries will also help prevent procrastination; you have allocated time to rest and time to work, set aside distractions until it’s time to take a break. Ideally, you’ll take short breaks throughout the day, 5-15minutes, for every hour of study completed. Then, there are the long breaks reserved for lunch and dinner. Taking breaks while you study helps re-energise the brain, which increases productivity and aids in your focus; it will also reduce stress and frustration. During breaks, try and avoid jumping onto social media; aim to do an activity that will boost your mental stamina like a short walk, calling a friend or making/eating a healthy snack. 

Exercise

Exercising benefits every aspect of life. It comes as no surprise that it can also aid in studying; it improves your mood, increases energy levels, and acts as a form of stress relief. It allows your brain to detach and focus on something else so that you can approach your studies with a clear head. Aim to exercise before each study session as this is optimum for improving concentration by increasing blood flow to the brain; in addition, regular exercise improves memory. Exercise raises your endorphin levels, lowers stress levels and helps you sleep better. You won’t have to hit the gym to reap the benefits; going for a walk, swimming, or taking an exercise class (yoga, dance, spin) will benefit you greatly. Attempt to get out and about for half an hour a day, break a light sweat. 

Eat Healthily

It’s common knowledge that healthy eating goes out the window for every uni student, especially during intense study sessions. It’s easier and faster to grab an energy drink and a pie from the dairy than eat a well-balanced meal. However, for long-lasting energy and brainpower, it’s beneficial to eat healthy food and stay well-nourished. Eating healthy helps improve concentration, memory, attention span and thought processing, which aids effective studying. Eating healthy doesn’t mean restricting your diet to fruit and vegetables; you can still have a variety of well-balanced and exciting meals. There’s no harm in treating yourself on the odd occasion; enjoy everything in moderation.

Be Kind to Yourself

Studying can be a stressful experience, and on top of that, additional outside influences can also affect your ability to study. If you notice that you’re not absorbing information, feel frustrated, tired or overwhelmed, then stop studying. Take a substantial break away for an afternoon or an entire day to give yourself space. Don’t feel guilty about taking time off; embrace student life, spend time with friends and family, or do activities you enjoy. It’s better to take a step back and re-evaluate your priorities than burn out and have to take even more time off. Seek help from the people around you; if you’re struggling with the course material, then reach out to lecturers and peers. If you’re struggling with stress, anxiety and pressure, then your university will have counsellors available if you need someone to talk to. There are other resources out there to help build a support system.

Time Management

Create a timetable to stay on top of time management. This is essential to effective study; it helps prevent burn-outs, allocates specific periods to study individual topics and helps create study patterns and structured routines. Be realistic when creating your timetable; its purpose is to make your time effective and efficient and not create unnecessary stress with unrealistic expectations. Make sure to allow time for eating, breaks, travel time if needed and unrelated tasks (socialising, housework, exercise). Having a timetable eliminates the uncertainty of where to start and when to start. Staying on top of your time management will help reduce stress by utilising your time effectively. 

Every student studies differently, but if you follow these tips, or incorporate them into your plan, then you’re sure to study effectively while maintaining a healthy level of self-care. It’s normal to slip up, take time off or change your routine to create a more successful schedule; studying is only beneficial when it’s working. 

-  Shannel Milne, Nxtstep Content Writer