5 Study Habits Every Student Should Adopt
Want to boost your academic game significantly and quickly? Here are 5 habits to adopt, tried and true for me throughout my time at UCLA and Columbia. Give them a shot!
• Start every day with a plan: Having a to-do list always on the go keeps you aligned with your priorities ensures you’re making progress-- I just keep one on my notes app and it’s super simple to update!
• Use active recall: The best way to truly learn AND retain material + it’s great for studying in groups to benefit everyone!
• Avoid last-minute cramming: I know it’s hard not to, but set a study schedule and stick to it-- your future self will be a lot less stressed
• Find your ideal study environment: Whether it’s a quiet library or a coffee shop, find where you’re most productive and stick to it.
• Celebrate small wins: Completing tasks, even small ones, is an accomplishment—acknowledge your hard work and that it’s not easy being a student! You got this
Studying effectively is crucial for academic success, especially in a college environment. To start, focus on creating a daily plan that outlines your tasks; this keeps you organized and ensures you address your academic priorities. Active recall is a powerful technique that involves testing your memory of learned material rather than passively reviewing it. Engage with study groups to enhance this method, as it helps reinforce knowledge through discussion and various viewpoints. Avoid procrastination by creating a realistic study schedule. This helps mitigate the stress of last-minute cramming and enables a more enjoyable learning experience. Establishing a consistent routine is key to staying on track. Your study environment plays a significant role in productivity. Whether you prefer the stillness of a library or the buzz of a coffee shop, find a place that boosts your focus and creativity. Finally, don’t forget to recognize and celebrate your achievements, even the small ones. Acknowledging progress builds motivation and fosters a positive mindset, making your academic journey more rewarding.


