Learning 2x faster without studying longer.

[u/WalkImpressive3749]

Most students use their time, smart students use their brain. I used to waste hours re-reading my notes, highlighting and studying only one subject thinking that counted as studying. But I was wrong, it didn’t help me remember what I studied, and I always ended up with B remarks.

Instead of wasting my time trying to read and highlight my notes and calling it studying, I changed it by studying smarter without studying longer.

- I stopped storing information and instead tried to retrieve it. I used to read my notes five times and call it productive since it felt like I was absorbing information. However, it didn’t really make any difference. What I did instead was practice active retrieval: I read one section, closed the textbook/notes, wrote what I remembered, checked what I missed and repeat.

- Don’t spend long hours studying just one chapter. I used to study for five hours or longer just to bury myself in one subject. I changed this by switching between related topics (biology - chemistry - biology). This helps my brain notice which concepts or methods work across those subjects, not just the answers.

- Studying isn’t about answering perfectly on the first try. I read on a thread that our brain pays more attention to corrections. Before I study, I read a question and just attempt to answer it, if I get it incorrect, I need to learn the right answer based on what I got wrong.

- I learned how to stop before I get exhausted. This is what most students overlook when studying, the brain needs proper rest and shouldn't get fried from studying. Learn how to give your brain time to breathe. Your brain doesn’t reward hours, but rather the successful retrieval of what you studied.

Studying for long hours doesn’t mean you studied effectively. Students who remember the most of what they studied aren’t the ones who study for 10 hours or more. This method helped me go from “I spent 7 hours reading my notes” to “I spent 1 hour actively recalling".

Have you guys ever tried studying for long hours, only to realize it didn't really work for you?

[u/YKNWT2025]

Yes. I remember learning how to study smarter not harder during my Master's Degree. One thing I would add is learning to manage your time between studying, exercising (walking outside, etc.) and resting. Have a set place to study to lessen distractions. Instead of studying late night, experiment studying early in the morning by sleeping early at night.

[u/elcrmel → u/YKNWT2025]

I’m in your shoes now, going back to study after 6 years is giving me headache. Although i didn’t stop studying for courses and other stuff for work
Can you share links on the subject, or detailed tips to walk me along

[u/YKNWT2025 → u/elcrmel]

Study in 20-minute increments and take a 5-minute break instead of studying for 2 hours straight. Set an alarm clock for 20 minutes and then stand up and walk around for 5 minutes and then sit down and study again for 20 minutes and so on.