Study Effectively

Take many practice tests. According to a study in 2005, taking the time to do plenty of practice tests actually boosted the students' scores. Quizlet is great for this. 

The Zeigarnik Effect, in short, is when interrupted tasks is sometimes recalled better than completed tasks.

You should step away from studying or homework and come back to it. This is why some say that you should take breaks from what you are doing, 10 to 20 min is best, and that you should space out your studying. Studying an hour a day for a week is best, however cramming is better than not studying. 

Teaching others means you have to have a better understanding of the material. 

Here, we deconstruct the subject and then reconstruct it, reinforcing the main points in your mind.

Step 1: Write the name of a concept on the top of a blank piece of paper.

Step 2: Write down the concept as if you're teaching it to someone.

Step 3: Identify what is missing, then go back and re-learn it.

Step 4: Review everything, and simplify as much as you can.

You must have a place to study. Especially when you are studying for mastery.

If that means you are better off in a garage than in your room than so be it. In general, listening to music while you study is not a good idea, unless it does not have any lyrics. But if some headphones cut out noise for you that is an option to consider as well. If you can, don't lay down on a bed or the floor as that will trigger drowsiness and loss of focus. 

Adding color will help you to save time in both retrieving and adding information.

Likewise, if you are working on several projects at the same time, assigning a different color project file for each one will make fast work of finding the one you need. The whole reason color-coding works is that it allows you to visually and quickly identify items by category. Adding even a little color will improve your function at work and likely lower your stress. 

For the tasks on your list of To-Do's, assign a color for things to do now, and later.

Use a color coding system when you take notes.

For example: Blue for definitions. Green for descriptions & explanations. Black for examples. Red for formulas or important ideas.

Make sure your notes are complete. Not only should you have what your teacher gives you, but you should also put down your own notes, your own little reminders of how or what to do. Then review them.