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Top 10 Study Tips to Study Like a Harvard Student

Adjusting to a demanding college workload might be a challenge, but these 10 study tips can help you stay prepared and focused.

Lian Parsons

The introduction to a new college curriculum can seem overwhelming, but optimizing your study habits can boost your confidence and success both in and out of the classroom. 

Transitioning from high school to the rigor of college studies can be overwhelming for many students, and finding the best way to study with a new course load can seem like a daunting process. 

Effective study methods work because they engage multiple ways of learning. As Jessie Schwab , psychologist and preceptor at the Harvard College Writing Program, points out, we tend to misjudge our own learning. Being able to recite memorized information is not the same as actually retaining it. 

“One thing we know from decades of cognitive science research is that learners are often bad judges of their own learning,” says Schwab. “Memorization seems like learning, but in reality, we probably haven’t deeply processed that information enough for us to remember it days—or even hours—later.”

Planning ahead and finding support along the way are essential to your success in college. This blog will offer study tips and strategies to help you survive (and thrive!) in your first college class. 

1. Don’t Cram! 

It might be tempting to leave all your studying for that big exam up until the last minute, but research suggests that cramming does not improve longer term learning. 

Students may perform well on a test for which they’ve crammed, but that doesn’t mean they’ve truly learned the material, says an article from the American Psychological Association . Instead of cramming, studies have shown that studying with the goal of long-term retention is best for learning overall.   

2. Plan Ahead—and Stick To It! 

Having a study plan with set goals can help you feel more prepared and can give you a roadmap to follow. Schwab said procrastination is one mistake that students often make when transitioning to a university-level course load. 

“Oftentimes, students are used to less intensive workloads in high school, so one of my biggest pieces of advice is don’t cram,” says Schwab. “Set yourself a study schedule ahead of time and stick to it.”

3. Ask for Help

You don’t have to struggle through difficult material on your own. Many students are not used to seeking help while in high school, but seeking extra support is common in college.

As our guide to pursuing a biology major explains, “Be proactive about identifying areas where you need assistance and seek out that assistance immediately. The longer you wait, the more difficult it becomes to catch up.”

There are multiple resources to help you, including your professors, tutors, and fellow classmates. Harvard’s Academic Resource Center offers academic coaching, workshops, peer tutoring, and accountability hours for students to keep you on track.  

4. Use the Buddy System 

Your fellow students are likely going through the same struggles that you are. Reach out to classmates and form a study group to go over material together, brainstorm, and to support each other through challenges.

Having other people to study with means you can explain the material to one another, quiz each other, and build a network you can rely on throughout the rest of the class—and beyond. 

5. Find Your Learning Style

It might take a bit of time (and trial and error!) to figure out what study methods work best for you. There are a variety of ways to test your knowledge beyond simply reviewing your notes or flashcards. 

Schwab recommends trying different strategies through the process of metacognition. Metacognition involves thinking about your own cognitive processes and can help you figure out what study methods are most effective for you. 

Schwab suggests practicing the following steps:

• Before you start to read a new chapter or watch a lecture, review what you already know about the topic and what you’re expecting to learn.
• As you read or listen, take additional notes about new information, such as related topics the material reminds you of or potential connections to other courses. Also note down questions you have.
• Afterward, try to summarize what you’ve learned and seek out answers to your remaining questions. 

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6. Take Breaks

The brain can only absorb so much information at a time. According to the National Institutes of Health , research has shown that taking breaks in between study sessions boosts retention. 

Studies have shown that wakeful rest plays just as important a role as practice in learning a new skill. Rest allows our brains to compress and consolidate memories of what we just practiced. 

Make sure that you are allowing enough time, relaxation, and sleep between study sessions so your brain will be refreshed and ready to accept new information.

7. Cultivate a Productive Space

Where you study can be just as important as how you study. 

Find a space that is free of distractions and has all the materials and supplies you need on hand. Eat a snack and have a water bottle close by so you’re properly fueled for your study session. 

8. Reward Yourself

Studying can be mentally and emotionally exhausting and keeping your stamina up can be challenging.

Studies have shown that giving yourself a reward during your work can increase the enjoyment and interest in a given task.

According to an article for Science Daily , studies have shown small rewards throughout the process can help keep up motivation, rather than saving it all until the end. 

Next time you finish a particularly challenging study session, treat yourself to an ice cream or  an episode of your favorite show.

9. Review, Review, Review

Practicing the information you’ve learned is the best way to retain information. 

Researchers Elizabeth and Robert Bjork have argued that “desirable difficulties” can enhance learning. For example, testing yourself with flashcards is a more difficult process than simply reading a textbook, but will lead to better long-term learning. 

“One common analogy is weightlifting—you have to actually “exercise those muscles” in order to ultimately strengthen your memories,” adds Schwab.

10. Set Specific Goals

Setting specific goals along the way of your studying journey can show how much progress you’ve made. Psychology Today recommends using the SMART method:

• Specific: Set specific goals with an actionable plan, such as “I will study every day between 2 and 4 p.m. at the library.”  
• Measurable: Plan to study a certain number of hours or raise your exam score by a certain percent to give you a measurable benchmark.
• Realistic: It’s important that your goals be realistic so you don’t get discouraged. For example, if you currently study two hours per week, increase the time you spend to three or four hours rather than 10.
• Time-specific: Keep your goals consistent with your academic calendar and your other responsibilities.

Using a handful of these study tips can ensure that you’re getting the most out of the material in your classes and help set you up for success for the rest of your academic career and beyond. 

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About the Author

Lian Parsons is a Boston-based writer and journalist. She is currently a digital content producer at Harvard’s Division of Continuing Education. Her bylines can be found at the Harvard Gazette, Boston Art Review, Radcliffe Magazine, Experience Magazine, and iPondr.

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25 Scientifically Proven Tips for More Effective Studying

Staying on top of schoolwork can be tough.

Whether you’re in high school, or an adult going back to college, balancing coursework with other responsibilities can be challenging. If you’re teetering on the edge of burnout, here are some study tips that are scientifically proven to help you succeed!

2023 Ultimate Study Tips Guide

In this guide, we explore scientifically-proven study techniques from scientific journals and some of the world’s best resources like Harvard, Yale, MIT, and Cornell.

In a hurry? Skip ahead to the section that interests you most.

• How to Prepare for Success
• Create Your Perfect Study Space
• Pick a Study Method that Works for You
• Effective Study Skills
• How to Study More Efficiently
• How to Study for Tests
• Memory Improvement Techniques
• Top 10 Study Hacks Backed by Science
• Best Study Apps
• Study Skills Worksheets
• Key Takeaways

This comprehensive guide covers everything from studying for exams to the best study apps. So, let’s get started!

Part 1 – How to Prepare for Success

1. Set a Schedule

“Oh, I’ll get to it soon” isn’t a valid study strategy. Rather, you have to be intentional about planning set study sessions .

On your calendar, mark out chunks of time that you can devote to your studies. You should aim to schedule some study time each day, but other commitments may necessitate that some sessions are longer than others.

Harder classes require more study time. So, too, do classes that are worth several credits. For each credit hour that you’re taking, consider devoting one to three hours to studying each week.

2. Study at Your Own Pace

Do you digest content quickly, or do you need time to let the material sink in? Only you know what pace is best for you.

There’s no right (or wrong) study pace. So, don’t try matching someone else’s speed.

Instead, through trial and error, find what works for you. Just remember that slower studying will require that you devote more time to your schoolwork.

3. Get Some Rest

Exhaustion helps no one perform their best. Your body needs rest ; getting enough sleep is crucial for memory function.

This is one reason that scheduling study time is so important: It reduces the temptation to stay up all night cramming for a big test. Instead, you should aim for seven or more hours of sleep the night before an exam.

Limit pre-studying naps to 15 or 20 minutes at a time. Upon waking, do a few stretches or light exercises to prepare your body and brain for work.

4. Silence Your Cell Phone

Interruptions from your phone are notorious for breaking your concentration. If you pull away to check a notification, you’ll have to refocus your brain before diving back into your studies.

Consider turning off your phone’s sounds or putting your device into do not disturb mode before you start. You can also download apps to temporarily block your access to social media .

If you’re still tempted to check your device, simply power it off until you’re finished studying.

Research shows that stress makes it harder to learn and to retain information.

Stress-busting ideas include:

• Taking deep breaths
• Writing down a list of tasks you need to tackle
• Doing light exercise

Try to clear your head before you begin studying.

Part 2 – Create Your Perfect Study Space

1. Pick a Good Place to Study

There’s a delicate balance when it comes to the best study spot : You need a place that’s comfortable without being so relaxing that you end up falling asleep. For some people, that means working at a desk. Others do better on the couch or at the kitchen table. Your bed, on the other hand, may be too comfy.

Surrounding yourself with peace and quiet helps you focus. If your kids are being loud or there’s construction going on outside your window, you might need to relocate to an upstairs bedroom, a quiet cafe or your local library.

2. Choose Your Music Wisely

Noise-canceling headphones can also help limit distractions.

It’s better to listen to quiet music than loud tunes. Some people do best with instrumental music playing in the background.

Songs with lyrics may pull your attention away from your textbooks. However, some folks can handle listening to songs with words, so you may want to experiment and see what works for you.

Just remember that there’s no pressure to listen to any music. If you do your best work in silence, then feel free to turn your music player off.

3. Turn Off Netflix

If song lyrics are distracting, just imagine what an attention sucker the television can be! Serious studying requires that you turn off the TV.

The same goes for listening to radio deejays. Hearing voices in the background takes your brainpower off of your studies.

4. Use Background Sounds

Turning off the television, talk radio and your favorite pop song doesn’t mean that you have to study in total silence. Soft background sounds are a great alternative.

Some people enjoy listening to nature sounds, such as ocean waves or cracks of thunder. Others prefer the whir of a fan.

5. Snack on Brain Food

A growling stomach can pull your mind from your studies, so feel free to snack as you work. Keep your snacks within arm’s reach, so you don’t have to leave your books to find food.

Fuel your next study session with some of the following items:

• Lean deli meat
• Grapes or apple slices
• Dark chocolate

Go for snacks that will power your brain and keep you alert. Steer clear of items that are high in sugar, fat and processed carbs.

Part 3 – Pick a Study Method That Works for You

Mindlessly reading through your notes or textbooks isn’t an effective method of studying; it doesn’t help you process the information. Instead, you should use a proven study strategy that will help you think through the material and retain the information.

Strategy #1 – SQ3R Method

With the SQ3R approach to reading , you’ll learn to think critically about a text.

There are five steps:

• Survey : Skim through the assigned material. Focus on headings, words in bold print and any diagrams.
• Question : Ask yourself questions related to the topic.
• Read : Read the text carefully. As you go, look for answers to your questions.
• Recite : Tell yourself the answers to your questions. Write notes about them, even.
• Review : Go over the material again by rereading the text and reading your notes aloud.

Strategy #2 – PQ4R Method

PQ4R is another study strategy that can help you digest the information you read.

This approach has six steps:

• Preview : Skim the material. Read the titles, headings and other highlighted text.
• Question : Think through questions that pertain to the material.
• Read : As you work through the material, try to find answers to your questions.
• Reflect : Consider whether you have any unanswered questions or new questions.
• Recite : Speak aloud about the things you just read.
• Review : Look over the material one more time.

Strategy #3 – THIEVES Method

The THIEVES approach can help you prepare to read for information.

There are seven pre-reading steps:

• Title : Read the title.
• Headings : Look through the headings.
• Introduction : Skim the intro.
• Every first sentence in a section : Take a look at how each section begins.
• Visuals and vocabulary : Look at the pictures and the words in bold print.
• End questions : Review the questions at the end of the chapter.
• Summary : Read the overview of the text.

Ask yourself thought-provoking questions as you work through these steps. After completing them, read the text.

Studying Online

Although these three study strategies can be useful in any setting, studying online has its own set of challenges.

Dr. Tony Bates has written a thoughtful and thorough guide to studying online, A Student Guide to Studying Online . Not only does he highlight the importance of paying attention to course design, but he also offers helpful tips on how to choose the best online program and manage your course load.

Part 4 – Effective Study Skills

1. Highlight Key Concepts

Looking for the most important information as you read helps you stay engaged with the material . This can help keep your mind from wandering as you read.

As you find important details, mark them with a highlighter, or underline them. It can also be effective to jot notes along the edges of the text. Write on removable sticky notes if the book doesn’t belong to you.

When you’re preparing for a test, begin your studies by reviewing your highlighted sections and the notes you wrote down.

2. Summarize Important Details

One good way to get information to stick in your brain is to tell it again in your own words. Writing out a summary can be especially effective. You can organize your summaries in paragraph form or in outline form.

Keep in mind that you shouldn’t include every bit of information in a summary. Stick to the key points.

Consider using different colors on your paper. Research shows that information presented in color is more memorable than things written in plain type. You could use colored pens or go over your words with highlighters.

After writing about what you read, reinforce the information yet again by reading aloud what you wrote on your paper.

3. Create Your Own Flashcards

For an easy way to quiz yourself , prepare notecards that feature a keyword on one side and important facts or definitions about that topic on the reverse.

Writing out the cards will help you learn the information. Quizzing yourself on the cards will continue that reinforcement.

The great thing about flashcards is that they’re easily portable. Slip them in your bag, so you can pull them out whenever you have a spare minute. This is a fantastic way to squeeze in extra practice time outside of your regularly scheduled study sessions.

As an alternative to paper flashcards, you can also use a computer program or a smartphone app to make digital flashcards that you can click through again and again.

4. Improve Recall with Association

Sometimes your brain could use an extra hand to help you hold onto the information that you’re studying. Creating imaginary pictures, crafting word puzzles or doing other mental exercises can help make your material easier to remember.

Try improving recall with the following ideas:

• Sing the information to a catchy tune.
• Think of a mnemonic phrase in which the words start with the same letters as the words that you need to remember.
• Draw a picture that helps you make a humorous connection between the new information and the things that you already know.
• Envision what it would be like to experience your topic in person. Imagine the sights, sounds, smells and more.
• Think up rhymes or tongue twisters that can help the information stick in your brain.
• Visualize the details with a web-style mind map that illustrates the relationships between concepts.

5. Absorb Information in Smaller Chunks

Think about how you memorize a phone number: You divide the 10-digit number into three smaller groups. It’s easier to get these three chunks to stick in your mind than it is to remember the whole thing as a single string of information.

You can use this strategy when studying by breaking a list down into smaller parts. Work on memorizing each part as its own group.

6. Make Your Own Study Sheet

Condensing your most important notes onto one page is an excellent way to keep priority information at your fingertips. The more you look over this sheet and read it aloud, the better that you’ll know the material.

Furthermore, the act of typing or writing out the information will help you memorize the details. Using different colors or lettering styles can help you picture the information later.

Just like flashcards, a study sheet is portable. You can pull it out of your bag whenever you have a spare minute.

7. Be the Teacher

To teach information to others, you first have to understand it yourself. Therefore, when you’re trying to learn something new, challenge yourself to consider how you’d teach it to someone else. Wrestling with this concept will help you gain a better understanding of the topic.

In fact, you can even recruit a friend, a family member or a study group member to listen to your mini-lesson. Reciting your presentation aloud to someone else will help the details stick in your mind, and your audience may be able to point out gaps in your knowledge.

8. Know When to Call It a Day

Yes, you really can get too much of a good thing. Although your studies are important, they shouldn’t be the only thing in your life. It’s also important to have a social life, get plenty of exercise, and take care of your non-school responsibilities.

Studies show that too much time with your nose in the books can elevate your stress level , which can have a negative effect on your school performance and your personal relationships.

Too much studying may also keep you from getting enough exercise. This could lower your bone density or increase your percentage of body fat.

Part 5 – How to Study More Efficiently

1. Take Regular Breaks

Study sessions will be more productive if you allow yourself to take planned breaks. Consider a schedule of 50 minutes spent working followed by a 10-minute break.

Your downtime provides a good chance to stand up and stretch your legs. You can also use this as an opportunity to check your phone or respond to emails. When your 10 minutes are up, however, it’s time to get back to work.

At the end of a long study session, try to allow yourself a longer break — half an hour, perhaps — before you move on to other responsibilities.

2. Take Notes in Class

The things that your teacher talks about in class are most likely topics that he or she feels are quite important to your studies. So, it’s a good idea to become a thorough note-taker.

The following tips can help you become an efficient, effective note-taker:

• Stick to the main points.
• Use shorthand when possible.
• If you don’t have time to write all the details, jot down a keyword or a name. After class, you can use your textbook to elaborate on these items.
• For consistency, use the same organizational system each time you take notes.
• Consider writing your notes by hand, which can help you remember the information better. However, typing may help you be faster or more organized.

Recording important points is effective because it forces you to pay attention to what’s being said during a lecture.

3. Exercise First

Would you believe that exercise has the potential to grow your brain ? Scientists have shown this to be true!

In fact, exercise is most effective at generating new brain cells when it’s immediately followed by learning new information.

There are short-term benefits to exercising before studying as well. Physical activity helps wake you up so you feel alert and ready when you sit down with your books.

4. Review and Revise Your Notes at Home

If your notes are incomplete — for example, you wrote down dates with no additional information — take time after class to fill in the missing details. You may also want to swap notes with a classmate so you can catch things that you missed during the lecture.

• Rewrite your notes if you need to clean them up
• Rewriting will help you retain the information
• Add helpful diagrams or pictures
• Read through them again within one day

If you find that there are concepts in your notes that you don’t understand, ask your professor for help. You may be able to set up a meeting or communicate through email.

After rewriting your notes, put them to good use by reading through them again within the next 24 hours. You can use them as a reference when you create study sheets or flashcards.

5. Start with Your Toughest Assignments

Let’s face it: There are some subjects that you like more than others. If you want to do things the smart way, save your least challenging tasks for the end of your studies. Get the hardest things done first.

If you save the toughest tasks for last, you’ll have them hanging over your head for the whole study session. That can cost you unnecessary mental energy.

Furthermore, if you end with your favorite assignments, it will give you a more positive feeling about your academic pursuits. You’ll be more likely to approach your next study session with a good attitude.

6. Focus on Key Vocabulary

To really understand a subject, you have to know the words that relate to it. Vocabulary words are often written in textbooks in bold print. As you scan the text, write these words down in a list.

Look them up in a dictionary or in the glossary at the back of the book. To help you become familiar with the terms, you could make a study sheet with the definitions or make flashcards.

7. Join a Study Group

Studying doesn’t always have to be an individual activity.

Benefits of a study group include:

• Explaining the material to one another
• Being able to ask questions about things you don’t understand
• Quizzing each other or playing review games
• Learning the material more quickly than you might on your own
• Developing soft skills that will be useful in your career, such as teamwork and problem solving
• Having fun as you study

Gather a few classmates to form a study group.

Part 6 – How to Study for Tests

1. Study for Understanding, Not Just for the Test

Cramming the night before a big test usually involves trying to memorize information long enough to be able to regurgitate it the next morning. Although that might help you get a decent grade or your test, it won’t help you really learn the material .

Within a day or two, you’ll have forgotten most of what you studied. You’ll have missed the goal of your classes: mastery of the subject matter.

Instead, commit yourself to long-term learning by studying throughout the semester.

2. Begin Studying at Least One Week in Advance

Of course, you may need to put in extra time before a big test, but you shouldn’t put this off until the night before.

Instead, in the week leading up to the exam, block off a daily time segment for test preparation. Regular studying will help you really learn the material.

3. Spend at Least One Hour per Day Studying

One week out from a big test, study for an hour per night. If you have two big tests coming up, increase your daily study time, and divide it between the two subjects.

The day before the exam, spend as much time as possible studying — all day, even.

4. Re-write Class Notes

After each class, you should have fleshed out your notes and rewritten them in a neat, organized format. Now, it’s time to take your re-done notes and write them once again.

This time, however, your goal is to condense them down to only the most important material. Ideally, you want your rewritten notes to fit on just one or two sheets of paper.

These sheets should be your main study resource during test preparation.

5. Create a Study Outline

Early in the week, make a long outline that includes many of the details from your notes. Rewrite it a few days later, but cut the material in half.

Shortly before the test, write it one more time; include only the most important information. Quiz yourself on the missing details.

6. Make Your Own Flashcards

Another way to quiz yourself is to make flashcards that you can use for practice written tests.

First, read the term on the front side. Encourage yourself to write out the definition or details of that term. Compare your written answer with what’s on the back of the card.

This can be extra helpful when prepping for an entrance exam like the GRE, though there are a growing number of schools that don’t require GRE scores for admission.

7. Do Sample Problems and Essays from Your Textbook

There are additional things you can do to practice test-taking. For example, crack open your book, and solve problems like the ones you expect to see on the test.

Write out the answers to essay questions as well. There may be suggested essay topics in your textbook.

Part 7 – Memory Improvement Techniques

1. Study Right Before Bed

Although you shouldn’t pull all-nighters, studying right before bedtime can be a great idea.

Sleep helps cement information in your brain. Studies show that you’re more likely to recall information 24 hours later if you went to bed shortly after learning it.

Right before bed, read through your study sheet, quiz yourself on flashcards or recite lists of information.

2. Study Small Chunks at a Time

If you want to remember information over the long haul, don’t try to cram it all in during one sitting.

Instead, use an approach called spaced repetition :

• Break the information into parts
• Learn one new part at a time over the course of days or weeks
• Review your earlier acquisitions each time you study

The brain stores information that it thinks is important. So, when you regularly go over a topic at set intervals over time, it strengthens your memory of it.

3. Tell a Story

Sometimes, you just need to make information silly in order to help it stick in your brain.

To remember a list of items or the particular order of events, make up a humorous story that links those things or words together. It doesn’t necessarily need to make sense; it just needs to be memorable .

4. Change Study Locations Often

Studying the same information in multiple places helps the details stick in your mind better.

Consider some of the following locations:

• Your desk at home
• A coffee shop
• The library
• Your backyard

It’s best to switch between several different study spots instead of always hitting the books in the same place.

5. Swap Topics Regularly

Keeping your brain trained on the same information for long periods of time isn’t beneficial. It’s smarter to jump from one subject to another a few times during a long study session.

Along those same lines, you should study the same material in multiple ways. Research shows that using varied study methods for the same topic helps you perform better on tests.

6. Quiz Yourself

Challenge yourself to see what you can remember. Quizzing yourself is like practicing for the test, and it’s one of the most effective methods of memory retention .

If it’s hard to remember the information at first, don’t worry; the struggle makes it more likely that you’ll remember it in the end.

7. Go Old-school: Use a Pen and Paper

The act of writing answers helps you remember the information. Here are some ways to use writing while studying:

• Recopy your notes
• Write the answers to flashcards
• Make a study sheet
• Practice writing essay answers

Writing by hand is best because it requires your attention and focus.

8. See It & Hear It

Say information out loud, and you’ll be more likely to remember it. You’re engaging your eyes as you read the words, your mouth as you say them, and your ears as you hear yourself.

Scientists call the benefit of speaking information aloud production effect .

Part 8 – Top 10 Study Hacks Backed by Science

1. Grab a Coffee

Drinking coffee (or your preferred high-octane beverage) while you study may help keep you alert so you don’t doze off mid-session. There’s even evidence that caffeine can improve your memory skills.

However, avoid sugary beverages. These could cause your energy level to crash in a few hours.

2. Reward Yourself

Studies show that giving yourself a reward for doing your work helps you enjoy the effort more.

Do it right away; don’t wait until the test is over to celebrate. For example, after finishing a three-hour study session, treat yourself to an ice cream cone or a relaxing bath.

3. Study with Others

Working with a study group holds you accountable so it’s harder to procrastinate on your work.

When you study together, you can fill in gaps in one another’s understanding, and you can quiz each other on the material.

Besides, studying with a group can be fun!

4. Meditate

It may be hard to imagine adding anything else to your packed schedule, but dedicating time to mindfulness practices can really pay off.

Studies show that people who meditate may perform better on tests , and they are generally more attentive.

Mindfulness apps can help you get started with this practice.

5. Hit the Gym

To boost the blood flow to your brain, do half an hour of cardio exercise before sitting down to study.

Aerobic exercise gives your brain a major dose of oxygen and other important nutrients, which may help you think clearly, remember facts and do your best work.

6. Play Some Music

Listening to tunes can help you focus. Studies show that the best study music is anything that features a rhythmic beat .

It’s smart to choose a style that you like. If you like classical, that’s fine, but you could also go for electronica or modern piano solos.

7. Grab Some Walnuts

A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids helps your brain do its best work.

Good sources include:

• Fish: cod liver oil, salmon and mackerel
• Vegetables: spinach and Brussels sprouts

To calm your pre-test jitters, eat a mix of omega-3 and omega-6 foods.

8. Take Regular Breaks

Your brain needs some downtime. Don’t try to push through for hours on end. Every hour, take a break for several minutes.

Breaks are good for your mental health . They also improve your attention span, your creativity and your productivity.

During a break, it’s best to move around and exercise a bit.

9. Get Some Sleep

Although studying is important, it can’t come at the expense of your rest. Sleep gives your brain a chance to process the information that you’ve learned that day.

If you don’t get enough sleep, you’ll have a hard time focusing and remembering information.

Even during busy test weeks, try to get seven to nine hours of sleep each night.

10. Eliminate Distractions

It’s hard to get much studying done when you’re busy scrolling Instagram. Put away your phone and computer while studying, or at least block your social media apps.

Turn off the television while you work, too.

If you’re studying in a noisy area, put on headphones that can help block the distracting sounds.

Part 9 – The Best Study Apps

1. iStudiez Pro Legend

Scheduling study time is a must, and iStudiez Pro Legend lets you put study sessions, classes and assignments on your calendar. Color coding the entries can help you stay organized.

For each class, you can enter meeting times and homework assignments, and you can keep track of your grades.

2. Dragon Anywhere

Instead of writing notes in the margins of your textbooks, you can use Dragon Anywhere’s voice dictation feature to record your thoughts and insights.

Just be sure to rewrite your dictated notes in your own handwriting later for maximum learning!

3. Evernote

When you’re in school, you have a lot of responsibilities to juggle, but Evernote can help you organize them.

You can add notes and documents to store them in one digital spot, and tagging them will help you quickly pull up all files for a class or a topic.

4. Quizlet Go

Make digital flashcards that you can practice on your mobile device with Quizlet Go .

This means that you can pull out your phone for a quick study session whenever you have a couple of minutes of downtime. You don’t even need internet access to practice these flashcards.

5. My Study Life

Enter your upcoming tests and assignments into My Study Life , and the app will send you reminder messages.

The app has a calendar so you can keep track of your class schedule. It can even notify you when it’s time to go to class.

6. Exam Countdown Lite

You should start studying for tests at least a week in advance. Input the dates for your exams and assignments into Exam Countdown Lite so you’ll have a visual reminder of when you should begin your test prep.

The app can send you notifications as well.

7. Flashcards+

With Chegg’s Flashcards+ , you can make your own digital flashcards or use ones designed by others.

Because you can add images to your cards, you can quiz yourself on the names of famous artworks, important historical artifacts or parts of a scientific diagram.

Organize information into categories by creating a visual mind map on XMind . This can help you classify facts and figures so you see how they relate to one another.

This visual representation can also help you recall the information later.

9. ScannerPro

Do you have piles of handwritten notes everywhere? Once you have written them out, consider scanning them into digital form. ScannerPro lets you use your phone as a scanner.

You can store your scanned files in this app or transfer them to Evernote or another organization system.

Part 10 – Study Skills Worksheets

Could you use more help to develop your study skills? Rutgers University has dozens of study skills worksheets online .

These documents are packed with tips that can help you become a better student. The checklists and charts can help you evaluate your current strengths and organize your work.

Part 11 – Key Takeaways

You’re a busy person, so you need to make the most of every study session.

By now, you should understand the basics of effective studies:

• Schedule study time
• Study regularly
• Minimize distractions
• Read for information
• Write the important stuff down
• Use creative memory tricks
• Quiz yourself
• Be good to your body and your brain

Put these study tips to good use, and you’ll soon learn that you’ve learned how to study smarter.

Studying with Friends: Why You Need a Study Buddy [+Tips]

Friendship is based on mutual respect, common interests, and laughter. Studying doesn’t usually appear on the list of shared activities. So why are more and more students meeting with their friends after class to do homework and prepare for exams?

There is a simple reason:

Having a study buddy has many advantages. Of course, you can always study alone at home, but you’ll miss the numerous benefits that come from learning with a friend or two.

In this article, our team will explain the most crucial advantages of having a study buddy. We’ll also explore the characteristics of a friend who can support you in your studies and how to nurture those qualities in yourself.

Who Is a Study Buddy Exactly?

We’ve already mentioned that a study buddy is a friend with whom you can prepare for tests and exams. But we’d like to dive deeper! Let’s explore the phenomenon in detail and figure out what it means to be one.

A study buddy should have these qualities:

• Empathy . A good study buddy is someone who understands your emotions, especially stress , that can be caused by upcoming exams. In an ideal case, both of you should experience the same challenges to understand each other better.
• Patience . Sometimes, it takes a long time to grasp new material. A reliable study buddy is someone who can withstand stress and overcome the difficulties of the process successfully.
• Enthusiasm . A study buddy is someone who energizes you and motivates you to achieve your goals. This type of friend will always support and encourage you.
• Self-organization. The ability to schedule a workload properly is the key to success. Therefore, a study buddy should be able to manage their time wisely and learn the material needed for an exam.

Most students spend time studying after school. They do homework, prepare for exams, or revise their notes for better comprehension. So, what are these study sessions like?

• Study Buddy vs. Study Group

There are two options for a joint study session:

• With a study buddy,
• In a study group.

You have to decide for yourself which option is the most convenient for you. Keep in mind that if you choose to study with several people, your group shouldn’t be too big. Make sure it is small enough so that everyone has the opportunity to ask questions and understand the material.

Organizing a large group of students is tricky. Thus, follow the principle of quality over quantity . Stick to a small but supportive group of people, and your studying process will be very productive.

• Study Buddy vs. Studying Alone

You might think you don’t need a study partner at all. Many students believe that studying alone is more effective and convenient because they do not need to adapt to anyone. And this is absolutely normal!

For example, you could study separately and call at a later time to quiz each other. Or you could agree to start at a specific time to increase your motivation. There are many options! Come up with several you like and try them out.

In any case, try to study with a friend when you can. There are so many benefits to this interaction, which we’ll talk about below.

9 Reasons to Get a Study Buddy

There are several reasons why you should think of finding a study buddy or a study group. Check them out in our infographic below.

As you can consider, the benefits of studying with a friend are the following:

How to Study with Friends: Essential Tips

Now that you’ve learned about all the benefits of studying with your friends let’s see how to start. First and foremost, you need to become a good study buddy yourself. This way, the extra effort that your friends put into studying with you can pay off for them too.

In the following several sections of this article, we’ll explain in detail how to be productive while studying with someone. We’ve got you covered every step of the way: from choosing a buddy to organizing and navigating your study sessions.

7 Tips on Selecting a Study Buddy

Choosing a study buddy can be a confusing process. In this section, we’ve gathered tips to help you select the absolute best one for you.

There are several types of study buddies. Depending on your personality, you’ll want to look for different characteristics that make someone a good partner for you in your study process.

Besides, we’ve listed a few things you should take into account when selecting a friend to study with:

• Compatibility.

Before choosing your study buddy, ask yourself some personal questions:

• Do you like to chat during your study session?
• Are you a team player?
• Do you enjoy working in silence, or do you want to discuss the new information actively?

Asking these questions before choosing a study buddy is essential because these qualities will determine how successful your study results will be. Do not choose a study buddy based on your shared interests or hobbies. Instead, consider how well your study styles match each other.

• Availability .

Another essential point to consider is your schedule – you want to find someone who has a similar one. If your potential study buddy lives too far away or works inconvenient hours, then it might be better to look for someone else.

It would help if you found someone who respects your time and schedule. Study partners should make things easier for each other. Who needs additional stress? Choose someone punctual, organized, and motivated.

There is a significant difference between study partners and tutors. Remember that you don’t have to be a teacher to your study buddy and explain all the given material. The goal should be to find someone who matches your academic level. Otherwise, you will spend all your time doing someone else’s work.

• Distractibility .

A good partner should be beneficial for your study process. They should not be the ones distracting you. Thus, find someone who is as motivated and goal-driven as you. Having your best friend as your study buddy might not be the best idea. If you have too much fun together, it might be challenging to focus on the studies.

The best scenario would be finding someone who knows what you don’t know and vice versa. In this case, you can help each other with the study material. For instance, you know someone who is excellent with constitutional law but does not know torts that well. Your understanding of torts can help your study buddy, and their knowledge of constitutional law can fill your educational gaps.

Maintaining a positive outlook is essential. All of us can get scared and unmotivated at times. That’s why it is critical to choose someone whose spirit can boost your confidence and mood.

What’s more, today you don’t have to look for a study buddy in your group or college. You can find various helpful apps and websites that can get you a partner online on the Internet.

For example:

1) StudyBuddyMobile will help you find a study buddy and find free tutoring on your campus. There is also a way to select students who prepare for the same exam, such as GRE, GMAT, etc.

2) Mooclab is another tool that students can use to find the best study pal. All you have to do is sign up, search based on your preferences, and connect with the matched people. It can also help you find a study group. However, it is not easy to use if you want to find someone immediately.

3) StudyPal is a service with a slack chat, a Zoom channel, and a network of tutors who aced the test you are preparing for. If you want to access all of these features, you will be asked to upgrade your account to premium for just 10 dollars. Nevertheless, if you don’t spend additional money on the study buddy service, there are many free services available.

Some universities realized the tremendous benefit of having study groups and including this feature in their campus apps. They allow students who take the same course to indicate their interest in studying outside of the classroom. Academic Support Centers at other colleges started launching programs with the same intention.

For instance:

Brigham Young University in Idaho created a program called Study Buddy . This specific program offers a one-on-one tutoring solution for those students who need some extra motivation and help.

How to Be a Friend to Study with

Collaborative learning is a process that requires the involvement of each participant. That is, if you want to have a great study buddy, you have to become one yourself. And here we will explain to you how to do it.

Studying with Buddies: Step by Step

Finally, we can move on to the highlights of learning with friends. This section provides you with a step-by-step guide for conducting study sessions when working with one or more people.

First things first, you need to choose a suitable partner for studying and prepare yourself for this responsibility. You can’t skip this step if you want to excel in collaborative learning. We have described all the tips in detail in the previous sections.

To navigate a study session, you should follow these steps:

Step 1: Pick the location.

Choose a convenient place to meet and study. This could be a free classroom in a college, someone’s room in an apartment or dorm. Now, you can meet on Zoom or Skype for collaborative learning.

Step 2: Create a schedule.

It is necessary to devote specific time to your study sessions. Agree on a particular period to conduct your study sessions. Create a shared file with a schedule where all of you can make changes.

Step 3: Choose what to study in advance.

Set a specific goal of what you need to do. You can’t be studying everything at once. Divide the material between each other beforehand.

Step 4: Share your notes and resources.

Sharing valuable resources and clear notes is necessary. It might lead to a better understanding of the material for both of you. If you share your notes, your partner will share theirs. Apart from that, you can both look up informative essay examples that might be useful for studying a particular subject or topic. Exchange what you’ve found afterwards.

Step 5: Plan time for studying and breaks.

You can’t be studying all the time. Devote some time for collaborative and individual study sessions, as well as for some rest time. Also, take some breaks during actual meetings to not overwork.

Step 6: Be prepared for each session.

If you’ve agreed on anything to do during previous sessions, do it. Complete all the tasks you’ve decided to do. Make notes to discuss specific questions.

Step 7: Communicate.

Make sure to actually talk to your study buddy. Your understandings and thoughts might be different, and it’s vital to share them. There’s no point to gather and read the information in silence.

Step 8: Consider tutoring each other.

Explaining a topic in your own words is an effective way to learn it. Try taking in turns and teaching each other specific issues. Every participant will benefit from such sessions.

Step 9: Test and assess each other.

Make regular quizzes. That’s a helpful method of evaluating one’s process of studying. Plus, it’s useful for group sessions.

Step 10: Agree on the deadlines.

If you’re in the course together, it is necessary to go over the material and schedule some deadlines to be on track. Having a shared goal and due date will increase productivity and keep you focused. However, you also need to plan some individual study sessions.

Thank you for reaching the end of the article! We hope you found it helpful, and now you know for sure if you need a study buddy. Share this article with potential candidates for this role to keep them interested.

• Navigate Study Buddies – Washburn University, Kansas DegreeStats
• Study Groups – Learning Center, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• 5 Tips for an Effective Study Group – David Eccles School of Business, the University of Utah
• How Can a Study Buddy Help You Succeed – RMIT University
• Study Buddies – The Graduate School, the University of Texas at Tyler
• 10 Reasons Why You Should Form a Study Group – Florida National University
• Benefits of Group Study – Claudia Ortiz-ortiz, Angeles Institute
• Study Groups: Learning Centers – Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey
• How Do I Start a Study Group? – Newnan Advising Center, the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, the University of Michigan
• Study Groups – Anderson University, Anderson Indiana
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Insider’s Guide to Studying Tip 5: Study Buddy!

Students of all ages can hone their study skills with these tips that teachers wished they knew when they were students.

Tip 5: Study Buddy!

Want a quick tip to cut the amount that you have to study in half? Partner up! Study buddies are a great way to divide study material, save time, and gain new perspectives.

Here’s how it works:

• Select a Study Buddy. The best study buddy is someone who you will be able to work well with. It’s nice to partner up with your friends, but if you’re going to spend your time gossiping or discussing video game high scores, then it won’t be time well spent.
• Set a Schedule. Select a time and place to meet up to study.
• Divvy up the Workload. If there are two chapters to study, each student is responsible for one chapter.
• Talk it Out. A study buddy isn’t about sitting down together and quietly reading side by side. A study buddy helps you learn, helps you discover areas that you need to focus on, and helps you cut down on the amount of studying you have to do on your own.
• Make study notes: write down titles, headings, and keywords , and make a copy for your partner
• Create your own mnemonic devices
• Create a fake test for your study partner
• Teach it. Take turns teaching a unit or section to one another. Review the material, but don’t read word for word from the text or class notes—boring! Don’t know where to start? Even if it seems awkward, just start at the beginning: “Chapter 5 is about atoms. Atoms are broken down into three basic elements…” Your study buddy can help you fill in gaps as well as point out important areas that you might have overlooked.
• Paraphrase. This is just a fancy word for putting it your own words. If you’re reciting word for word from a textbook you’re just memorizing. If you can explain it in your own words, then you’re on your way to real understanding.
• Pay Attention to Class Examples. Sometimes teachers give examples in class that are not in the textbook. Teachers sometimes include these on a test to see if you were paying attention in class. Remember that films, pictures, and handouts can turn up on tests, so don’t overlook these examples—even if they seem silly.
• Share. Your impressions and opinions about the material might offer a new perspective on a subject. A different viewpoint can give you insights and ideas that you hadn’t considered.
• End with a test. Pass each other the fake tests that you’ve created and quiz one another. Correct each other’s test and see how you did.

Sometimes teachers assign study groups , usually with 3-5 (or more) students per group. While a larger group might decrease the amount of material that you have to review on your own, it can also be a recipe for disaster. A too-large group can too easily lead to socialization and procrastination, so it’s important to follow the above tips and stay organized.

Print off this post. Download the complete Insider’s Guide To Studying (PDF) .

Related: Tip 4: Putting it your own words. Tip 3: The Fake Test Tip 2: Mnemonic devices Tip 1: Review with a Pen and Paper

Insider Guide to Studying Tip 5 – Study Buddy

Insider’s guide to studying tip 4: paraphrasing, related high school resources.

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• Meet the Staff
• –Supplemental Course Schedule
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• –About Tutoring
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• –Guidelines for Creating a Study Schedule
• –Five-Day Study Plan
• –What To Do With Practice Exams
• –Consider Exam Logistics
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• –How to Tackle Exam Questions
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How to Study

Many of your study strategies–habits you have developed on and relied on over time–work great! Still, many students find when they start college or take on more challenging course material that some habits might need to be tweaked. Reflection is a powerful tool, and LSC is ready to help you delve into thinking about what study habits continue to work for you and what you might want to change – studying for college can be very different than studying in high school; you will be expected to not just memorize things, but to apply and evaluate information.

Below are some strategies you can explore and try out-see what works for you!

Studying for and Taking Exams

• Effective Study Strategies : Retrieval Practice, Blank Page Testing, Interleaving, Spaced Practice, etc.
• Concept Mapping  – How to make a concept map, and why they can help you tie ideas together.
• Guidelines for Creating a Study Schedule  – Suggestions for making your study more efficient.
• The Five Day Study Plan – A way to plan when and how to study for exams.
• What to do with Practice Exams – Why does taking practice tests work?
• Consider Exam Logistics – Your approach to exams should vary depending on if the exam is in-person or online, if it is timed, and if you have access to a quiet place to take it.
• Online Exam Checklist  – Online exams present a unique set of logistical challenges, whether you are home or on-campus. Be prepared! Gather as much intel as possible about the testing format before the exam.
• Open-Book Exams : Understand what it means, you still need to study!
• How to Tackle Exam Questions  – Strategies for different types of exam questions plus tips for decoding exam questions.
• What to do when you get your graded test (or essay) back : Whether the score you earned makes you want to jump for joy or curl up into a ball, learning from your graded work is an incredibly valuable opportunity. Do not, repeat DO NOT, immediately toss or file away the test or essay you just got back! Here’s what to do instead.

Taking Notes

• The Cornell Note Taking System  – How to use the Cornell note taking system, with our interactive Canvas module.
• Learning from Digital Materials – What strategies work best?

Reading Strategies

• 3 P’s for Effective Reading  – Purpose, Plan, and Preview
• Textbook Reading Systems  – How to use the SQ3R and other reading systems.

Learning Online

• Online Learning Checklist : a checklist of how to be prepared to learn online.
• Things to Keep in Mind as you Participate in Online Classes  (including troubleshooting tips!)
• Learning from Online Lectures and Discussions : Successful online learners, like all learners, have a growth mindset! They are flexible, tolerate the inevitable technical problems that arise, ask for help when they need it, keep on top of regular work for each class, minimize distractions as much as possible, and persist when things are hard.
• Online Group Work : Just because you aren’t in the same room (or country!), doesn’t mean that you can’t collaborate effectively. Just like with any kind of group work- for online group work to be successful it helps if you think through, in advance, the ground rules for how you will work together. See LSC’s  Student Guide for Studying Together  for more tips.
• Learning Online Resource Videos 

Getting your Questions Answered

• Office Hours  – What they are and how to make the best use of them.
• LSC Supplemental Courses are offered in support of student learning in a variety of large introductory courses.
• LSC offers tutoring in a variety of disciplines including chemistry, biology, math, statistics, physics, languages, and economics.
• You can also form your own study group or find a study buddy .

Studying with Friends: Why You Need a Study Buddy – 11 Top Tips

Finding an effective way to study may help your academic results and make the learning process more enjoyable. Whether you’re at senior secondary school or university, discovering which study methods work for you can transform the way you approach your projects, homework, coursework, and dissertations.

For many people, studying with friends is a surprisingly effective way to boost your learning outcomes. To find out why, take a look at some of the benefits it offers:

1. Stop Procrastinating

Putting things off, or procrastinating, can mean that you don’t leave yourself enough time to complete your work. Typically, this means you’ll submit work at the last minute and not perform at your best. For students, procrastination can be a major barrier to success. In one study, 70% of university students considered themselves to be procrastinators, which highlights just how common the problem is!

When you have a study buddy, you’ll keep each other accountable. With regular joint study sessions, for example, you’ll be less likely to postpone doing your work and achieve better results because of it.

2. Understanding New Concepts

When you’re learning new material, things can come to a standstill if you don’t understand the concepts or theory behind it. Fortunately, two heads are better than one, which is why studying with friends can be so useful in this respect.

When you can share your ideas and understanding with other people, you can help them advance. Similarly, you can benefit from your friends’ knowledge and insight when you’re struggling to get to grips with a new topic or subject.

3. Learn New Study Techniques

People learn in different ways, which is why there are a variety of different study techniques out there. 65% of people are visual learners , so using colour-coded notes and images could be an effective way to boost your retention rates.

Crucially, having a study buddy (or two) enables you to pick up on different study techniques. When you share your strategies for working or revising, you’ll discover how your classmates are achieving academic success. By replicating their techniques or varying them to suit your own needs, you could find a more effective and efficient way to study.

4. Testing and Quizzing Each Other

Tests and quizzes are an easy yet effective way to determine what you know and to identify any gaps in your knowledge. As well as using tests and quizzes to revise before a test, it can be helpful to incorporate them into your regular study schedule.

Of course, it can be difficult to test yourself, and someone who doesn’t know the material might not ask the right questions, which is why a study buddy is the perfect person with whom to share tests and quizzes!

5. Staying Motivated

When you become demotivated, it can be hard to concentrate and avoid distraction. This ties in with procrastination and can make it harder for you to hit your targets and perform at your best. Due to this, staying motivated is essential when it comes to getting the grades you’re capable of and reaching your potential.

If you have a study buddy, you’ll have their encouragement and help to rely on. Whether they reassure you that you can achieve the grades you want or give you a talking to when you’re slacking, a study group can keep you feeling motivated and upbeat.

6. Talking About Material

Around 30% of the population are auditory learners , which means they understand and retain information more effectively when they hear it. If you fall into this category, discussing your study materials with a friend can be a highly successful way to improve your academic performance. From discussing what you’ve been taught in class to reading each other’s work aloud, there are a variety of ways that studying with a friend can facilitate auditory learning.

7. Sharing Notes

Even if you have a 100% attendance rate, it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to note down everything that a teacher or lecturer says while you’re in class. It’s easy to miss important points that could aid your understanding of a particular topic or issue.

When you have an established study group, you can share notes and ensure that no one misses out on potentially critical information. Whether you photocopy handwritten notes or collaborate on a digital file, sharing notes in this way can have a huge impact on your understanding and retention.

8. Tutoring Each Other

Whatever subjects or courses you’re studying, there are likely to be some areas that you’re not as confident with. With a study buddy, you can tutor one another at any time. If you’re on the same program or at the same academic level, you’ll be able to provide each other with the knowledge or skills that you need.

9. Make Studying a Habit

Learning and memorising information involves a certain level of repetition, so getting into good academic habits will stand you in good stead. When you have a regular study session in your diary, you’ll become accustomed to working for a set amount of time on a particular day of the week. This habit will quickly become engrained and help you to incorporate study time into your routine more successfully.

10. Share Resources

Without access to the right resources, learning can be a lot harder than it needs to be. From books to laptops, sharing resources with friends can benefit everyone. Currently, more than 30% of 5–14- year-olds from disadvantaged communities in Australia don’t have access to the internet at home. By forming study groups and using local amenities, like the library, students can increase their access to critical resources and enhance their learning.

11. Making Learning Fun

Studying alone can feel fairly isolating, particularly if you have a big deadline coming up or you’re preparing for end-of-year exams. However, studies have shown that people learn better when they’re feeling positive emotions and they retain more information when they’re having fun. Of course, studying with friends is much more fun than learning alone, which is one of the reasons it can be such an effective way to improve your understanding and knowledge.

Creating a Study Group

With so many benefits associated with having a study buddy, it’s easy to see why so many students are choosing to learn as a unit. When you and your study buddies can all optimise your learning by working together, it makes sense to study in a shared environment. By connecting with friends and classmates, you can establish your own study group and share your learning experience in a way that benefits everyone.

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How to Ask Someone to Be Your Study Buddy

Last Updated: November 28, 2022 References

This article was co-authored by Bryce Warwick, JD . Bryce Warwick is currently the President of Warwick Strategies, an organization based in the San Francisco Bay Area offering premium, personalized private tutoring for the GMAT, LSAT and GRE. Bryce has a JD from the George Washington University Law School. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 62,062 times.

Studying alone can lead to boredom, distraction, and no one to turn to when you’re stuck. But the right study buddy can enliven your study sessions. It can be intimidating to ask someone to be your study buddy, but chances are there’s someone else out there who is looking for the same help studying you are. By knowing what you’re looking for, where to seek potential candidates, and how to ask the right questions, you can find the perfect study buddy.

Approaching Your Potential Study Buddy

• You don’t have to ask them to be your study buddy right away. Take some time to get to know them first. That way, you’ll know if your personalities are a match.
• Take interest in what they have to say, make eye contact, and pay attention. This will show them that you are interested in what they have to say. You’ll learn whether or not their personality and interests will complement yours.

Finding a Good Potential Study Buddy

• Post a call for a study buddy on a bulletin board in a public building (classroom buildings, libraries, community centers, etc.). [3] X Research source
• Post a request for a study buddy on social media.
• Send a request for a study buddy to a class or departmental email list. This is a good way--especially for an introvert--to gauge people’s interest in obtaining a study buddy. [4] X Research source It’s also an efficient way to find someone with similar academic interests.

• Also observe those who are in the same school clubs as you are or are interested in the same extra-curricular activities.
• While you and your study buddy don’t necessarily have to have the same level of intelligence, you should share a similar level of commitment and get along well. [7] X Research source Remember, your energies will influence each other’s work habits. [8] X Research source

Nailing Down the Details

• ”Do you think you work best alone or with others?"
• "Do you struggle with any subjects? Are you really good at any subjects?”

• ”Are there places where you work better than others? Are there any places you absolutely wouldn’t study?”
• ”Are you easily distracted while studying?”
• ”Do you like to take a lot of breaks?”
• ”Do you have any major time commitments that get in the way of studying?”

• An example could be: “I’ve enjoyed spending time with you lately, and it seems like we really get along and have a lot in common. I’ve been looking for a study buddy recently. Would you be interested in being my study buddy?”

Community Q&A

• Don’t be discouraged if your study buddy turns out to be less than helpful. You may be doing both of you a favor by breaking it off and remaining just friends. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• if you find a good study buddy, see if incorporating more people into your study circle helps you even more. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• You may be tempted to choose somebody who’s already a close friend as a study buddy, but they may provide more of a distraction than a helping hand. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.fastweb.com/student-life/articles/five-tips-for-freshmen-to-find-a-study-buddy-in-class-without-knowing-anyone
• ↑ http://www.lindsaydoeslanguages.com/successful-language-study-buddy/
• ↑ Bryce Warwick, JD. Test Prep Tutor, Warwick Strategies. Expert Interview. 5 November 2019.
• ↑ https://www.thoughtco.com/reasons-to-have-a-study-partner-1857559
• ↑ https://www.uloop.com/news/view.php/131083/Study-Buddy-Your-Way-To-That-A
• ↑ http://www.mycollegeadvice.org/blog/2013/11/18/study-strategies-the-study-buddy
• ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/turning-straw-gold/201106/how-ask-help

About This Article

To ask someone to be your study buddy, first take some time to get to know them. Ask if they’d like to grab lunch or join you in a recreational activity. Once you’ve seen that you get along, you can ask them questions about their study habits and schedule, such as which subjects they’re good at and where they like to work. Then you can ask them in a clear and direct manner if they would like to be your study buddy. For example, you can say, “I’ve enjoyed spending time with you. Would you be interested in being my study buddy?” For more advice, including how to find a good potential study buddy, read more! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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December 7th, 2016

Do you need a language study buddy (+ 6 tips on how to make it a success).

At the start of 2016, I had a new language learning experience: a study buddy. But what role does a study buddy fill? And how can they help your language learning? I sat down with Shannon Kennedy to discuss how to have a successful language study buddy.

Learning Korean at the start of 2016, I was excited to have a study buddy for the first time, my friend and fellow language blogger, Shannon of Eurolinguiste .

I wasn’t really sure what to expect or if it would make a difference to my progress at all, but I was keen to find out. It turns out that having Shannon as my study buddy was one of the best things about learning Korean .

Page Contents

what is a study buddy?

This is a difficult question to answer. It can mean different things to different people.

It could be that your study buddy is a native speaker of the language you’re learning and they’re learning your native language. When you meet up (online or in real life) you spend half of your time in one language and one in another. However, personally, I would consider this more of a language exchange.

It could be someone who’s studying the same language as you but they’re currently at a higher level.

It could be someone who’s studying the same language as you at the same level.

Or it could be someone who’s studying a different language or a different topic altogether but you’re meeting regularly to hold each other accountable or to get some focused study time in.

With Shannon, we were both at the same level in a new language to both of us. That’s the type of study buddy I’ll be focusing on in this post.

If you’re considering finding your own study buddy for your language learning, here are my top tips.

Study Buddy Tips

Arrange a regular meeting time.

When we first started learning Korean, we didn’t really have much of a plan. In fact, we probably went for a couple of months without taking full advantage of having a study buddy. But we soon changed that.

After arranging a regular time to meet and discuss our progress, my motivation benefited from a real boost.

All of a sudden, I wasn’t just learning new stuff to grow my own personal vocabulary, I was learning new stuff to share with Shannon in our weekly meetings. I wanted to share something valuable with Shannon each week and this pushed me to go deeper and find more good stuff to share.

Set a goal to share something with your buddy

Telling yourself that you’ll find something to share with your study buddy is one thing, but actually telling each other out loud is another. And the second one is the better one too.

After a couple of weeks of sharing what we’d learnt over the past week with each other, we started to tell each other what we’d bring to our session next week. How many words should Shannon expect me to teach her in our next meeting? What topic will I be focusing on to share with her?

Setting a goal for what we would share with each other really helped to re-enforce the point of sharing worthwhile content with each other.

Keep in touch in between your meets

You’ll want to find a study buddy that you feel comfortable contacting between your arranged meeting times.

I know this might sound basic, but depending on how well you know your study buddy or how approachable they are it can be hard to reach out for fear of disturbing your study buddy.

If you feel that way, it’s probably not a good sign. You need to feel that your odd comments and useful finds will be appreciated not annoying.

Don’t be afraid to discuss your “failures” as well as successes

Ok, this is a big one. Your study buddy is not your competition. I’m gonna repeat that one because it’s reeeeally important: your study buddy is not your competition.

It’s ok to share your “failures” with your study buddy as well as your successes. Getting stuff wrong is an essential part of successful language learning so be as proud of your mistakes as you are of your wins. Mistakes = progress.

If you turn up to a meeting with your study buddy after a relatively “light” week when it comes to language learning for whatever reason, be honest with your study buddy. Chances are they’ll be grateful to you for opening up the door for them to be honest and open with you too.

Now don’t get me wrong, you don’t want your meetings to turn into a moanfest. You’ve got a study buddy not a moan buddy! But it’ll be much more discouraging if your study buddy is just telling you how great things are when you’ve had a string of bad weeks.

Find someone the right level

As I mentioned towards the top of this post, study buddy could mean different things to different people, and when it comes to finding someone at the “right” level, the meaning of “right” is variable.

Perhaps what you need is to have a study buddy studying at the same level as you, perhaps you need someone at a higher level than you, or perhaps you need someone at a lower level than you.

For me, Shannon being the same level in Korean as me was the right level. I was looking to learn together and that’s what we got.

So how do you decide what the right level is for you?

Do you enjoy and learn from teaching what you know to others? Consider a study buddy at a lower level than you.

Do you enjoy having things explained by someone who has been there? Consider a study buddy at a higher level than you.

Do you enjoy sharing things and learning with others? Consider a study buddy at the same level as you.

Shortest flowchart quiz ever.

Knowing your personal language insecurities and pitfalls will help you to make the right decision for you here.

Find someone as committed as you

Probably the most important thing to think about before starting a study buddy arrangement. What you don’t want is a study buddy who’s going to go all in for 1 week, 1 month, 6 weeks and then disappear. Motivation is key.

What you do want is a study buddy who can commit and is as committed as you, if not more so.

Because I knew Shannon well before we started our study buddy arrangement, I knew she’d be committed to this, and she proved me right. Yay!

How to find a study buddy

Now you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to find the right person to buddy up with. But how? And where? Argh! I’ll explain…

Where to find a study buddy

Think about where you hang out, whether that’s on or offline. If you’re looking for a similar study buddy then this is a good place to start.

Online this could include italki , HelloTalk, language learning Facebook Groups or other social media platforms. If you don’t know where to begin on social media, try hashtags to lead you to people learning what you’re learning.

Offline this could be coffee shops, local information boards at community centres or universities and colleges or even something like meetup.com, which is online but encourages offline meet ups with people with similar interests.

How to make it happen

Let’s say you’ve come across someone online who you think could be a good fit. The best thing from here? Reach out to them! Yay!

Be clear what you’re looking for and don’t be afraid to say early on how often you’d like to buddy up, where you’d like to meet, what language you’re learning and what level you’re at now, and what you have in mind specifically that will benefit both of you.

Here’s a bad example of a first message to a potential study buddy:

Hey. I’m learning Korean like you. We should chat.

And here’s a much better example:

Hey! I noticed that you’re learning Korean and I want to connect with you because I am too. I’m a beginner right now but I’m studying about 30 minutes each day and my goal is to be at a comfortable conversational level by the end of the year. I’m looking for a study buddy to talk with on Skype for an hour each week. I’ve never done this before but I think it would be a great way to keep us both motivated and help us learn more together. 🙂 Do you think this is something you’d be interested in?

Notice how the second message is really clear and outlines everything we mentioned above? Woop!

Now of course, not everyone will response. Some people might think you’re coming on too strong, some people might not be looking for a study buddy and that’s fine. It just means that when you do find your study buddy, you’ll appreciate them more!

If you’re ready to learn more, watch the video below. I talked to Shannon about her take on having a study buddy and asked her a few questions about getting started.

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MCAT Study Buddy Do’s & Don’ts From A 520 Scorer

May 12, 2023

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Now you can have a top MCAT scorer guide you all the way to your  goal MCAT score →

Studying for the MCAT can get pretty isolating and distracting, especially if you’re studying alone and you can’t find someone in your community going through the same thing. 

For some this can prevent you from truly focusing on your study schedule and hitting your goal scores, and we know how tough that could be. This is why having a study buddy can be one of the most important strategies that you can use to your advantage as you’re preparing for one of the biggest test days of your life. 

Your MCAT Mastery mentor, Aly, actually attributes a lot of her own MCAT prep success to having a good study buddy system! In fact, Aly’s study buddy system is part of the reason she was able to score a 520 on the MCAT!  

The Benefits Of Having An MCAT Study Buddy

Understanding content.

If you can teach somebody a concept, you truly understand it. 

If you’re struggling to teach somebody a concept, that means there are gaps in your understanding …

And one of the most effective ways to remedy that gap is reviewing it with somebody else!

The great thing is that this works both ways! Being taught a concept you don’t understand with a real person in real-time is so much more valuable than reading some answers on a Reddit forum. 

Don’t get us wrong, Reddit (and other online resources) are incredibly helpful, but sometimes writing on the internet can be more confusing and inconvenient than it needs to be. 

More often than not,  when someone’s directly explaining things in person, you’re more likely to be able to understand with more clarity and speed. 

Accountability

This is great for making sure that you’re sticking to your goals and schedule. It’s really easy to fall behind schedule and get distracted when you’re studying on your own.

Have you ever told yourself you would spend the entire day preparing for the MCAT...

But by the end of the day you just end up asking yourself, in guilt, how you ended up spending hours watching videos on social media? Yeah, we’ve been there too.

With a study buddy, you’re more accountable to your time and schedule , making you stick to the plans you make. Having someone with you really helps ensure that you stay in check and are following your schedule.

The MCAT is a long and difficult test and we know how frustrating it can be to go on this journey alone. 

Of course, your friends and family are there for you and it’s great to have their support, but they don’t really understand the MCAT and what you’re going through like someone else taking the test does . 

Being able to vent or talk to someone in a similar situation, in real time, ultimately eases both of your MCAT anxieties and the two of you will be able to keep a positive morale together.

Now that we’ve gone through some of the benefits of having a study buddy, let’s get into some different ways you can actually study with your study buddy.

Three Ways To Study With Your MCAT Study Buddy

1. studying via video call.

This is one of the easiest ways to study with someone. This is essentially staying on a video call with your study buddy throughout the duration of your study session. 

For Aly, what worked was having both you and your study buddy on mute so you don’t get distracted by background noise. Of course, you can unmute and talk when you want to ask questions, or you encounter a difficult practice question that the both of you can work through together.

This is helpful because sometimes the internet doesn’t have a quick answer to your MCAT questions. You don’t want to spend hours searching for answers online and take away more time from your studying. That’s why it’s helpful to have a study buddy who’s there for you to give you help and advice right when you need it .

You can use flashcards to test each other through video call too! 

It’s nice to have a second opinion during MCAT prep because it can help make things easier to remember. You can ask follow-up questions and work through concepts together to gain a deeper understanding of what you’re studying.

Another thing you can also do with a study buddy is take full-length practice tests together . When you’re taking full-length practice tests by yourself, it’s easy to give yourself extra time or take longer breaks that you wouldn’t get on test day. 

So having a study buddy writing a full-length practice test with you ensures that you have someone holding you accountable to get through it as you should. The great thing about doing the test together is that you’re also able to review together afterwards.

To learn more about the strategies that top scorers use when writing full length practice tests, check out this article !

2. Studying together in person

This is fairly common for students in university who have friends who are also taking the MCAT at a similar time as them. This is a great option because you don’t have to worry about technical problems like having internet issues and can just focus on studying and reviewing together.

You can also take advantage of learning areas or spaces in your community that you can rent out, so you can have ample space to think through and talk with your peers.

Having access to tools like whiteboards and handwritten notes to make sense of concepts that are confusing you is also super helpful when it comes to studying for the MCAT.

However, studying together in person should be done by and with someone who doesn’t get easily distracted , especially if you’re in a large study group. If you’re studying in person, try to keep the study group small, set specific goals together and lay down study group guidelines. 

It can feel weird having to set so many boundaries when you’re studying with your peers, but you have to remind yourself that you’re doing this so that you can all ace the MCAT, not to socialize . This is to prevent distraction and to make sure that you’re maximizing your group study time and that everyone keeps to their schedule and goals.

If you’re considering making an MCAT study group, check out our article on the ways to make it as effective to your learning as possible here .

3. Studying with someone you don’t know

If you’re thinking to yourself ‘ but I don’t know anybody studying for the MCAT ’ . You can seek out study buddies from social media MCAT and premed groups or Reddit 

You can also check out studypal.co where you’re paired with someone who’s also studying for the MCAT and has a similar score goal and test date as you! 

It’s a real cool way to meet new people but also get the accountability and value you need out of a study buddy to make sure you’re both on track to achieving your goals.

This can be uncomfortable and awkward in the beginning, but if you feel that you really need that accountability check and support, this is a great option. 

There are ways that you can overcome the awkwardness, like by using your first study buddy technique which is to stick to study sessions via video call. This is good because it’ll give you some distance between you and your paired buddy for you to get a good feel for if the arrangement will work for both of you.

Another thing you can do is check-in at an agreed scheduled time when to ask questions for a short period of time, instead of going right into a video call that lasts several hours. You could just send pictures and be like ‘Hey, can you call for a second this is really confusing me’. 

You can even keep conversation strictly to text if that makes you comfortable. At the end of the day, do what makes you most comfortable and efficient !

Having a study buddy you don’t know opens helps ensure that you’re making the most of your time and study resources. Because they’re not a friend, you’re more likely to stay focused and stick to the schedule you are both committing to…

That also means that if you plan on reviewing flashcards to keep each other engaged, you can keep your video calls brief and there won’t be any moments of awkward silence, because you’re actually going through material together.

Finally, a way you can make use of a study buddy you don’t know is to provide updates and check-ins . Staying on schedule is tough so what you can do to hold yourself accountable is send your study buddy a list of your goals every morning. By the time you’ve wrapped up your studying for the day, check-in with your study buddy and share what goals you’ve both accomplished.

What If You Still Can’t Find An MCAT Study Buddy ?

If after all of that you still think you won’t be able to find a study buddy, that’s okay! 

While having a study buddy is an effective tool for a lot of people taking the MCAT, it’s not essential to you doing well. There are plenty of people who study independently and go on to achieve top scores.

An alternative to having a study buddy that many test takers consider is tutoring. Instead of having someone who is figuring things out with you, a tutor already has the MCAT figured out and is guiding you with more certainty and high quality approaches. 

At MCAT Mastery, we pride ourselves in providing affordable MCAT prep to students and that holds true for our 1:1 tutoring with top scorers. If you’re interested in getting high quality support from a top scoring mentor check out our tutor services here .

Like we mentioned before, there are online groups and communities that also give you support and make you feel less alone during this challenging process…

Just remember that regardless of whether you have a study buddy, you’ll always have the MCAT Mastery community to support you along your journey to becoming a doctor.

You’re doing great so far and keep up the good work.

You got this,

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3 Mistakes to Avoid When Working with a USMLE Study Buddy

• by Leila Javidi, MD, MPH
• Nov 20, 2019
• Reviewed by: Amy Rontal

Updated 11/2019:

My, how time flies.  A few years ago, I was just your average third year medical student reflecting on my experience with using a Tutor for Step 1 studying. It’s so incredible to sit here as an attending and reflect on how different my perspective is now on Step studying and really the whole medical school experience.  As it happens, I am no longer looking at this as a student, but as a tutor and mentor, myself.

So what, if anything, has changed? I suppose everything and nothing has! Despite being done with literally ALL of the most difficult, dreaded parts of medical school, I still need and seek support and guidance, I still need someone to tell me I’m making the right decisions for my future, and I still need someone from time to time to just give it to me straight’. What is fascinating to me, however, is that I never thought that as a tutor I would actually derive this support somehow from my students, but I absolutely do!  What I didn’t realize is how collaborative this relationship feels not just from the student’s viewpoint, but from the standpoint of the tutor, as well. I guess what I’m getting at, is that one year later, I can update this article in saying as a tutor, we get just as much from this intense and rigorous process as you do as a student! So without further ado, let’s dive into my original post about working with study buddies:

It can be very lonely while studying for the USMLE, and ultimately, a study buddy is likely one of the only types of people who could possibly understand what you are going through. That said, it is nearly impossible for two individuals to have the exact same academic strengths, sleep requirements, attention spans, or resource preferences.

If you compromise your study needs and become codependent with your buddy, you both WILL compromise your ability to reach your maximum potential. So, if you are teaming up with someone to tackle your exam, here are 3 very common mistakes to avoid (and some tips on how to steer clear of them) with your study buddy:

1 . You make a study schedule together based on both of your needs.

You both decide “Monday through Thursday, we’ll study renal, then we’ll begin cardio on Friday”.

Share strategies on how to plan a schedule and bounce ideas off each other. It would be best sit down for an afternoon before you begin studying to figure out your respective schedules, but keep in mind that your schedules may (and SHOULD) be very different; that they will undoubtedly change as you progress through your studying.

2 . You take breaks at the same time

You both decide, “Let’s take a break after we finish the question set.” You finish the set, review it extensively, but don’t feel confident about a specific topic and decide dig deeper. Your buddy has also finished the set, and is ready for a break, so she waits for you to finish before taking her break. Why is this bad?   Your buddy is now wasting time waiting for you to finish and you now feel rushed to finish your module. Now both of you have compromised your study efficiency and quality.

Tell each other what you want to accomplish before you take a break, and follow through . If your buddy finishes first, she should get up and go take her break for a pre-determined amount of time, and when you finish, you can join her for the rest of her break (if you can). Lay out this expectation ahead of time to ensure maximum study efficiency without hurting your buddy’s feelings. This concept can and should also be applied to deciding when to quit for the night!

3 . You give in to both pro- and anti-study peer pressure

Pro-Study Peer Pressure Your buddy asks, “Wow, are you already done for the night?” You feel self-conscious now, and continue to study to save face despite your exhaustion and distraction.

Anti-Study Peer Pressure Buddy says: “Everyone is going to dinner. C’mon, you can take a night off!” Fearing that you will ‘miss out’, you end your study night early when you actually had a lot of energy and motivation left to continue for the night!

Be firm and straightforward with yourself and your buddy. Learn to block out all external input and follow your instincts and what YOU need to do. If you are done for the night, instead of feeling guilty and staying with your buddy to no benefit, say, “Yep, I’m done for the night. I’d rather go home and get a good night’s sleep and start fresh. Good luck! I’ll see you tomorrow!” And similarly, tell your buddy, “You’re right, I can take a night off, but I’m going to save that for when I have no motivation! Have fun!” when you wish to keep studying.

3 Simple Study Buddy Rules

I hope above tips were helpful! To summarize, if you ultimately follow three simple principles when working with a study buddy, you can maximize positivity and support while minimizing distraction and inefficiency:

1 . Keep each other motivated and organized by sharing strategies and tips 2 . Establish expectations up front for your study ritual (particularly addressing these common mistakes) 3 . Remain firm and honest with yourself and your buddy and always follow your instincts!

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How to Choose the Right Study Buddy

• Posted by Strive Academics
• Categories College , High School , Study Tips
• Date June 7, 2017

Wouldn’t it be lovely if all of our friends had the same goals, drive and study styles? Unfortunately, when it comes to academics, some ‘alliances’ are more influential than others. Sometimes it’s better to connect with someone that’s not in your social circle in order to establish the right dynamic of support and accountability.

The Benefits of Having a Study Buddy:

• Discuss the subject matter
• Review answers and the assignment
• Accountability and structure
• Keeps you motivated
• Share experiences and resources
• Adds a social element to test preparation
• Test and quiz each other
• Communicate goals and vision

Let’s take a look at things to consider when choosing your study partner.

Availability and Location

If you plan on studying with a friend, it’s important to get your structure in place. Consider your availability and routine, and check whether you can set consistent times for studying together. If it takes you more than an hour to get to your study partner’s house, it might not be ideal for your time management, so having someone nearby to study with would be best.

Team Player or One-on-One

Consider your study style when choosing study buddies. Do you prefer to work in a group and discuss topics ‘casually,’ or do you prefer to have someone that is focused in the same room as you? Maybe you would like a bit of both? In that case, you can create one-on-one study sessions as well as group discussion as a part of your preparation.

Give and Take Relationship

There is a big difference between having a study buddy and a tutor . Since both parties will be focused on preparing for the exam, constantly having to ‘help’ or assist the other person might steal time from your own work. Try to find an individual that matches your academic level or challenges you so that you can improve and work together instead of holding each other back. Of course, your study buddy might find certain areas of study easier and will be able to provide clear explanations and tips, and you might be able to help him/her with other subjects or areas as well.

If, however, you are more in need of someone to assist with your studies, a private tutor would be the best option. Apart from keeping you accountable, they can guide you through difficult material and address any questions you may have.

Routine and Structure

Your study buddy needs to respect your routine and structure and vice versa. Choose someone that is punctual, focused, and diligent so that your partnership brings calm and does not add  stress to your study times. Read our post about setting your social boundaries when it comes to studying to help you manage your time with your friends and family.

More Focus and Less Distraction

A study partner needs to be someone that won’t distract you during study times. This person needs to be as goal-oriented as you are and provide a setting/location where studying is a priority. Having your best friend as your study partner might not be the best idea since you will have hundreds of things to chat about other than the work at hand.

A Positive Influence

We all know that preparing for an exam or test can be rather stressful, but it’s important to surround yourself with positive influence during these times. It’s easy for self-doubt to creep in and choosing a study buddy with a positive attitude and can-do spirit can really help boost your morale when feeling overwhelmed.

After you’ve found the perfect partner, the following steps need to take place:

• Set up a meeting to plan and compare your calendars
• Decide on how many days and hours you will be studying together
• Choose a study space that would suit you both
• Discuss which work will be covered first
• Compile all your notes and resources
• Prepare your work ahead of time
• Set times for homework and discussions
• Consider additional study tools, trackers, and software
• Plan breaks, meals, and snacks ahead of time
• Decide on a means of communication
• Set rules for study times
• Make the commitment to support each other

Remember, everything that you are looking for in your study buddy is also something that you need to be willing to provide. Study partners are there to support each other, but not carry each other’s loads. Have a look at your own study strengths and weaknesses to assess how you can compromise and improve to become a valuable study partner for someone else as well.

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11 Good Study Habits to Develop

Good study habits include finding a quiet location to study, taking breaks, settings goals, and taking practice tests. Here's the full list, and the psychological reasons why they work.

Studying can be hard. The good news is that anybody can develop good study habits to make studying more effective, efficient, and enjoyable.

Want to develop good study habits? Start small—don’t expect to do everything in this list, at least not right away; pick one or two instead. It’s also important to set realistic and achievable goals for yourself. 

Good study habits to develop

Here are 11 tips to improve your study habits:

Find a good place to study.

Minimize distractions.

Take breaks.

Space out your studying.

Set study goals for each session.

Reward yourself.

Study with a group.

Take practice tests.

Use your own words.

Ask for help.

Take care of yourself.

Let's take a closer look at how you can implement each of these habits.

1. Find a good place to study.

Finding a good location to study is one of the most important elements of studying well. Look for a quiet place with minimal distractions—someplace where you’ll be able to focus, and won’t be interrupted by loud sounds or people who constantly want your attention.

A school or public library, a coffee shop, or a quiet corner of your house can all be good places to start. 

Should I stick to one place to study?

Not necessarily. Some studies show that occasionally changing where you study can help retain information. This is because studying the same material in different locations helps your brain create multiple associations with that material, making it easier for you to remember it [ 1 ]. It can be beneficial to find three or four places you like to study and switch locations when you’re feeling stuck or need a change of pace. That said, everybody is different. Find what works best for you.

2. Minimize distractions.

Picking a good location to study can be the first step in keeping yourself focused on your work. But there are many types of distractions that can reach you no matter where you choose to work. Here are some tips on minimizing these distractions:

Turn off your wifi: If you’re working on a computer and you don’t need your wifi, try turning it off. This can keep you from inadvertently wandering into the distracting parts of the internet.

Be mindful of your phone: It’s no secret that our smartphones can be hugely distracting. Turning off your notifications, keeping your phone out of sight in your bag, or giving it to a friend to keep you from checking it too often can help you stay focused. You might also try a focus app, like Forest or Focus To-Do , that can block distracting apps and set timers for study sessions.

Study with a friend: Sometimes studying with a friend or two, whether or not you’re working on the same material, can help keep you accountable and focused. Make sure you each are on the same page about studying and keeping one another distraction-free, at least until it’s time to take a break.

Should I listen to music while I study?

Listening to music while you study has some benefits; it can boost your mood and calm anxiety or stress. But studies show that reading comprehension tends to fall when the music is too loud, fast-paced, or contains lyrics [ 2 ]. Stick with calming, wordless songs while studying, and save the upbeat numbers for breaks.

3. Take breaks.

Taking intentional breaks has been linked to better retention, increased attention, and boosts in energy. Research shows that working for around 50 minutes, then giving yourself a 15- to 20-minute break, can lead to optimum productivity [ 3 ]. Here are a few ways you can give yourself a break:

Take a short walk

Listen to a mood-boosting song

Relax with a friend

Zone out and daydream

Have a snack

Take a shower

Clean your desk or room

Not all breaks are created equal. Checking your phone or social media as a study break has actually been linked to a decrease in performance [ 4 ]. 

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4. Space out your studying.

Cramming can still help you get a good grade on a test, but studies show that you’re much more likely to forget that information as soon as the test is over. Really holding onto the material you learned (and making exam seasons less stressful) requires consistent and well-spaced study sessions.

Instead of saving your studying for before a test, briefly review material you learned once a week. If you are studying for an exam, space out your studying up to several weeks (or even months, depending on the test) leading up to the exam day. This can help you retain the information long term. 

5. Set study goals for each session.

Set study goals for each session of studying you have. These can be time-based or content-based. For example, you might aim to study for two hours, or review three chapters of your textbook—or both.

Don’t be too harsh on yourself if you didn’t get through as much as you had planned; sometimes studying can take longer than expected. Keep taking well-spaced breaks, and schedule another study session.

6. Reward yourself.

Rewarding yourself with treats—“bribing” yourself—has been linked to better self-control, and can be helpful in forming good habits [ 5 ]. Telling yourself you’ll get a small reward if you finish the section you wanted to get through, or perhaps a larger reward if you have a productive day of studying, can be good motivation to get to your goal. 

Small rewards can be a candy bar, a hot drink from your favorite coffee shop, a quick game of your choice, or a short episode of a TV show. Bigger rewards for a long day of studying or getting done with an exam can include getting your favorite meal, spending some time relaxing with friends, or making time for your favorite activity. 

7. Study with a group.

There are several benefits to forming a study group. Group members can help one another work through difficult problems, provide encouragement, hold each other accountable to studying goals, provide different perspectives, and make studying more enjoyable. Even explaining difficult concepts to others can help with comprehension and retention. 

If you have a group study session, set a goal the group will work towards and take periodic breaks as you would studying by yourself.

8. Take practice tests.

Tests and practice tests have been long seen as useful tools to help students learn and retain information. Besides revealing gaps in knowledge and reducing exam anxiety, being tested makes us retrieve information from memory—a powerful, study-backed way of holding onto information we’ve learned [ 6 ].

Don’t have a practice exam? There are several ways you can “test” yourself and gain the same benefits. Try the following methods:

Create flashcards

Write your own questions

Search for practice questions online

Have a friend quiz you

9. Use your own words.

Expressing an idea in your own words increases your understanding of a subject and helps your brain hang on to information. After you read a section of text, summarize important points by paraphrasing. 

10. Ask for help.

You might find yourself stuck on a problem or unable to understand the explanation in a textbook. Somebody who is able to walk through the issue with you might provide the fresh explanation you need. Approach your teacher or professor, teaching assistant, friend, or study group member for new ways to understand what you’re stuck on. Feel like you can benefit from being coached through a subject? Consider looking for a tutor.

And don’t forget the myriad online tools that might be at your disposal, like the Khan Academy . A quick search through Google or YouTube can also surface helpful articles or videos on subjects you’re trying to grasp.

11. Take care of yourself.

At the end of the day, your brain is an organ in your body—take care of it by taking care of yourself. Get regular exercise, eat well, don’t overdrink, get good sleep, and take care of your mental wellbeing. 

Sleep: Studies have linked sleep deprivation to decreased cognitive function, including reduced attention spans and doing worse on tests [ 7 ]. Everybody’s sleep needs are different, but people typically need between seven and eight-and-a-half hours of sleep a night. Plus, getting more sleep can make you happier and benefit your social life.

Food: Try to incorporate more fruits, vegetables, plant sources of proteins, nuts, and unsaturated oils like olive oil into your diet, all of which have been linked to better cognitive performance [ 8 ]. 

Exercise: Exercise brings oxygen to the part of your brain responsible for thought, encourages the development of new nerve cells, and boosts brain cell connections [ 8 ]. This makes for brains that are more neuroplastic and efficient—plus it brings a host of other health benefits, like lower blood pressure, reduced mental stress, and weight control.

Mental wellness: Mental health is important because it helps us deal with stress, improves our relationships with others, allows us to live more meaningfully, and be more productive in our work. Exercising, eating well, and getting good sleep can each boost our mental health. But there are other ways of fortifying mental strength, such as connecting with others, practicing gratitude, meditating, and developing a sense of meaning in life [ 9 ].

Getting started

Forming good habits can be difficult, but starting with small, achievable steps can set you up to have consistent study habits for the rest of your life. Explore more personal development courses from leading universities and institutions on Coursera. Sign up for a free 7-day trial and start learning today.

Looking to get a degree? Knowing what’s out there is a good first step. Take a look at bachelor’s and master’s degrees on Coursera .

Article sources

New York Times. " Forget What You Know About Good Study Habits , https://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/07/health/views/07mind.html." Accessed July 27, 2022.

University of Wollongong Australia. " Is it OK to listen to music while studying? , https://www.uow.edu.au/media/2019/is-it-ok-to-listen-to-music-while-studying.php." Accessed July 27, 2022.

TIME Magazine. " The Exact Perfect Amount of Time to Take a Break, According to Data , https://time.com/3518053/perfect-break/." Accessed July 27, 2022.

Bustle. " A New Study Says Scrolling Through Social Media Doesn’t Actually Give You A Mental Break , https://www.bustle.com/p/taking-a-break-by-looking-at-social-media-doesnt-help-your-mind-reset-a-new-study-says-18682642." Accessed July 27, 2022.

PsychCentral. " The Pscyhology of Rewarding Yourself with Treats , https://psychcentral.com/blog/psychology-rewarding-yourself-with-treats." Accessed July 27, 2022.

KQED. " A Better Way to Study Through Self-Testing and Distributed Practice , https://www.kqed.org/mindshift/49750/a-better-way-to-study-through-self-testing-and-distributed-practice." Accessed July 27, 2022.

Forbes. " New Studies Show What Sleep Loss Does To The Brain And Cognition , https://www.forbes.com/sites/alicegwalton/2019/11/29/new-studies-show-what-sleep-loss-does-to-the-brain-and-cognition/." Accessed July 27, 2022.

Harvard Health Publishing. " 12 ways to keep your brain young , https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/12-ways-to-keep-your-brain-young." Accessed July 27, 2022.

MedlinePlus. " How to Improve Mental Health , https://medlineplus.gov/howtoimprovementalhealth.html." Accessed July 27, 2022.

This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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Study Buddy The handy device

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Study Buddy is a dedicated-purpose teaching and learning mobile device. This teacher-tested device works with cartridges for each subject and does not require an internet connection. Remember that all our educational resources (HSE, Pathfinders, Mechanics & Achiever!) can be delivered on this mobile device!

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Cooperative learning, peer mentoring & tutoring, parental involvement.

Self-paced study causes students to be “active learners”. They know why their answers are wrong and see the steps to find solutions on their own. When students realize they have the power to help themselves, they gain confidence and are eager to learn. This is “authentic engagement” .

• Academic Benefits
• Gives differentiated instruction.
• Accommodates many learning styles.
• Immediate feedback stimulates higher achievement.
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• “Hands-on” learning engages students.
• Increased confidence increases the desire to learn.
• Relieves peer pressure.
• Decreases classroom disruptions.

Research Citation

“Students respond immediately to change in instruction. They begin to accelerate their rates of learning if they are taught in a way they want to be taught.”

– Marzano and Pickering, Assessing Student Outcomes.

Supporting Kagan’s Principles Classroom size is reduced. Students build higher level thinking skills as they explain solutions to each other.

• Improves students’ efforts to achieve.
• Material is remembered longer.
• Higher level reasoning is used more.
• Improves students’ interpersonal relationships.
• Students tend to like each other better, including groups of able-bodied students and students with disabilities, and groups of students with different ethnic backgrounds.
• Students tend to have a higher regard for teachers, school, and the subjects they study.

“36 studies concluded that students taking part in peer tutoring spent more time on task, showed better social skills, expressed more motivation and less frustration. “Peer Tutoring’s Potential to Boost IQ Intrigues Educators, Education Week, Vol 27, No 6 October 3, 2007.

“Of all classroom grouping strategies, cooperative learning may be the most flexible and powerful.”

– Marzano, Pickering & Pollock 2001

Students love to learn from someone just a couple of years older! Tutor programs with adult volunteers are productive. When tutors need more practice with academic concepts, the solutions and answers are in the Study Buddy.

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• Herrera, DuBois, Grossman, The Role of Risk: Mentoring experiences and outcomes for youth with risk profiles.

“Students who meet regularly with mentors are 52% less likely than their peers to skip a day of school and 46% less likely than their peers to start using illegal drugs.”

– (Public/Private Ventures study of Big Brothers Big Sisters).

Most parents want to help , but they don’t know where to start . Parents of any educational background participate actively and productively. Parents can begin by simply viewing scores on the Study Buddy’s Progress Report, and providing praise. The next step is viewing lessons on their own to learn and understand what their children are learning. A final option is for parents and students to read and discuss questions and solutions. .

• Promotes family literacy.
• Boosts student achievement.
• Provides a shared focus between the school and parents.
• Parents know what is being studied in school.
• Parents understand what challenges their children.
• Eliminates confrontations over parents’ homework help.
• Provides “good public relations” with parents

“Students with parents who are involved in their school tend to have fewer behavioral problems and better academic performance, and are more likely to complete high school than students whose parents are not involved in their school.”

– Parental Involvement in Schools, Child Trends Data Bank

Study Buddies:

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Students can reproduce a one-minute lesson based on selected content.

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Obtain results of periodic tests performed to measure progress.

Detailed tracking tool.

Study Buddy Gradebook software is an affordable option for tracking student progress. This option allows you to do the following:

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Brainchild’s patented learning process  allows students to help themselves,  our study buddy is adaptable to any, learning style.

Struggling Learners are easily embarrassed. They appreciate private instruction that does not show others they are having problems.

These learners are frustrated easily and must receive instruction in as many ways as possible. Study Buddy allows them to play a lesson as many times as they need to interiorize a lesson.

Visual Learners learn through seeing and prefer written or visual materials such as pictures and charts. They become confused when doing such things as changing percentages to decimals, then multiplying.

These learners must see the process. Animations in Study Buddy let them “see” the solution. The feedback for answers allows them to see how they can find the solution.

Auditory Learners learn through listening via discussions and hearing information.

Study Buddy small group or paired instruction lets them participate in discussions about questions and solutions. Multimedia instruction allows them to hear the information they need to know.

Kinesthetic Learners learn by doing, and prefer a hands-on approach. Movement, music in the background, and lots of activities work well for this style of learner.

They donʼt like sitting in a formal classroom desk arrangement. For these learners working in small groups or teams is a supportive activity.

Remember… Students learn better when all these stimuli are combined.

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I have a student that just passed his GED Social Studies test & he used the Study Buddy every day before he tested. He started at the beginning and went through all of the lessons & tests. If he made below a 90, he would go back and redo the lesson and or test. He would tell me every day at the end of class, “This is just what I need”.

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What do teachers use study buddy for.

Teachers can provide extra help to students who are far behind their peers and reduce classroom size with small Study Buddy learning groups. Additionally, they re-teach essential basic skills and provide differentiated instruction on Common Core and state standards.

What is in a Study Buddy software cartridge?

About 1,000 question items with feedback and a teaching animation for each lesson

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Teachers and parents are allowed to review tracking student progress with the Study Buddy Gradebook software by following the following steps:

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5 Benefits of Having a Study Buddy in College

What are the benefits of having a study buddy in college? Learn about why to find a study partner and how you can enhance each other’s academic success.

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A study buddy is someone you meet with in person or virtually to help you learn and retain the information you’re required to know as part of your academic classes. While some college students study alone, there are several advantages of making this action a group effort.

If you’re on the fence about whether studying with someone else is the right decision for you, here are five benefits of having a study partner in college.

#1: It makes study sessions more enjoyable.

Some people dread studying because it’s a solitary task. They already spend a lot of time alone, and studying by themselves only adds to the loneliness. Or they have a social personality and find that studying on their own contradicts the type of environment that they do best in.

In both cases, having a study buddy can make out-of-the-classroom learning more enjoyable. Knowing that you have someone going through the same process with you provides a sense of collaboration, making you feel like you’re part of something bigger…and better.

#2: A study buddy motivates you to study more.

What happens if studying becomes more enjoyable? You’re apt to do it more. And the more you study, the better your chances of learning and remembering the information.

Having a study partner motivates you in other ways as well. This person holds you more accountable, for example. So, if you don’t show up for a study session when you said you will, they’re going to call you on it.

A study buddy can also provide motivation in the form of being a coach or cheerleader. When you get an answer right, they’re there to congratulate you and celebrate your success. When you get an answer wrong, they’re there to remind you that learning is a process and you will get there as long as you keep studying the materials.

#3: It gives you someone with whom you can brainstorm study questions.

Have you ever taken a quiz or test only to realize that you studied the wrong information beforehand? Or maybe you studied the right information but didn’t dive into it deep enough. Having a study partner can help you avoid these types of situations.

When there are two of you studying, you have someone else to brainstorm the questions that you need to know. They may come up with topic areas that you forgot about. They might also point out different portions of the material that may be on an upcoming test.

#4: It enables you to split the study work.

Another benefit of having a study buddy is that you get to split the work. It’s like when you have a group assignment and each member takes one section. When you study with a partner, you’re able to split the work during the studying process.

If you use flashcards, for instance, you can write up some of them and they can write up others. If you study by answering multiple choice or essay questions, instead of you having to come up with them all, your study buddy is responsible for coming up with half.

#5: You can learn from your study partner.

Not only is a study buddy good for helping you learn materials presented in class, but you can also learn from them as individuals. They may understand things you don’t, enabling them to share their knowledge with you or explain it in a way that increases your understanding.

A study partner may also know a different study method that will work better for you. Perhaps they color code certain information making it easier to identify when reviewing it for a test, or they might do mind maps to visually organize specific information. If you’ve never used these study methods, learning them can provide additional ways to learn and remember.

How to Find a Good Study Buddy

If you decide that a study partner is a good option for you, the next step is to find this person. Before you do, consider how much time you want to study together and how you plan to study (such as online or in person). This helps set the expectations for what you want in a study buddy.

It can also be helpful to consider what type of learner you are (such as visual versus auditory), the type of person you are most compatible with, and your study goals. Once you have a clearer image of what an ideal study buddy looks like for you, it becomes easier to find this person.

Identifying a Study Partner

You can find a study partner in a few different ways. Here are some to consider:

• Reach out to others in your classes.
• Post in your class discussion forum.
• Ask your instructors if they know another student looking for a study partner.

If you want more help learning, Saint Leo University also offers academic support. Services provided include peer-assisted learning (PAL), coaching peer tutoring, and more. Check out our Center for Academic Vision & Excellence , also referred to as the CAVE, to learn more about how we can help you.

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Want to live to 100? "Blue Zones" expert shares longevity lessons in new Netflix series

By Sara Moniuszko

August 30, 2023 / 11:05 AM / CBS News

"Blue Zones" — parts of the world where people tend to live the longest — are coming to life in a new series focused on tapping into their  lessons on longevity.

In the four-part series "Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones" (streaming now on Netflix) Dan Buettner, the explorer and best-selling author who has studied Blue Zones for 20-plus years, takes viewers on a journey to regions with the highest number of centenarians, or people who live to 100: Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya, Costa Rica; and Loma Linda, California.

By stepping inside their homes and through interviews with Buettner, viewers learn about the foods that fuel this impressive population and other aspects of the  lifestyles they lead on a daily basis that positively impact their health. 

The four principles that span each zone? Eating wisely, moving naturally, connecting with others and having a purpose or outlook.

"The essence of Blue Zones is people live a long time not because of the things we think — they're not on diets, they're not on exercise programs, they don't take supplements," Buettner told CBS News. "They don't pursue health, which is a big disconnect in America, because we think health is something that needs to be pursued."

Instead, in Blue Zones, health ensues from their overall lifestyle, he says.

"It ensues by setting up your surroundings the right way, and in Blue Zones, those surrounding are naturally set up," he says, adding that these ideas are transferable no matter your age. 

"Starting at any age will make you live longer," he says. "At age 60, you could potentially add six extra years. And at age 20, if you're a male, you could potentially add 13 extra years if you live in a Blue Zone lifestyle as opposed to a standard American lifestyle."

In his latest book, "The Blue Zones: Secrets for Living Longer," Buettner digs even deeper into how people can set up their surroundings to unconsciously encourage healthier choices, like residents of the Blue Zones.

"We make about 220 food decisions a day . Only about 10% of them, 22 or so, are conscious, the other almost 200 are unconscious," Buettner explains. "So the Blue Zone approach is not trying to make you muster discipline or presence of mind to govern those 20 decisions — our approach is to help you set up your kitchen and your social life so those 200 unconscious decisions... are slightly better."

In a "Person to Person" interview with CBS News' Norah O'Donnell earlier this year, Buettner shared plant-based recipe tips for longer living. But even those already familiar with his work will learn something from his latest projects.

There are about a dozen new insights to take away from the series, Buettner says, including a location he describes as a "Blue Zone 2.0" — Singapore.

"(Singapore) demonstrates that we don't have to be as sick and unhealthy as we are as a nation," he says. "There are other economically developed young countries that are vastly diverse, culturally speaking, that achieve much better health outcomes."

And Buettner says he isn't finished learning, teasing three new locations he's studying and hopes to share soon.

"I'm very interested in healthy life expectancy now. Blue Zones was about living a long time, and there are new metrics out that measure years of life lived at full health, and America does a pretty crappy job," he says. He believes these new locations should provide insight on "not just making it to 95 or 100, but making the journey an absolute blast and feeling good the whole way."

• Fruit and vegetable "prescriptions" linked to better health and less food insecurity, study finds
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Watch Norah O'Donnell's full interview with Dan Buettner in the video below:

• Dan Buettner

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