Study skills are techniques that help students learn better and do well in school. These skills are like tools that make studying easier and more effective.
Organize a study space:
Make sure a study area is clean and free of distractions.
Have all necessary materials like textbooks, notebooks, and pens ready.
Create a study plan and manage time:
Decide what you want to achieve in each study session.
Plan specific times each day for studying and stick to it. Use a calendar or planner to track deadlines and test dates.
Try using the Pomodoro Technique (see image) or other time management methods to break down large tasks into smaller blocks of work with breaks in between.
Use a variety of evidence-based learning strategies:
Spaced Practice - set aside time to go over material regularly rather than cramming.
Interleaving - alternate between topics being learned.
Retrieval Practice - use flashcards or practice multiple-choice questions to recall material.
Elaboration - learn more about the topics being studied.
Dual Coding - use both words and images to represent ideas.
Concrete Examples - real-life information that explains an idea.
Apply memory techniques:
Use acronyms or catchy phrases to remember information.
Break down complex material into smaller, manageable parts and chunk related information.
ROYGBIV
Develop test-taking strategies:
Practice with previous exams or sample questions.
Leave enough time for each question during the test.
Develop research skills:
Find information from trustworthy books, websites, or articles.
Record where you found information to cite sources later.
Study Skills for Students
Goal Setting Worksheet
Time Management Worksheet
Active Retrieval Worksheet
For more information, please see:
How to help teens develop good study habits
Brown-Kramer, C. R. (2021). Improving Students’ Study Habits and Course Performance With a “Learning How to Learn” Assignment. Teaching of Psychology, 48(1), 48-54.
Hassanbeigi, A., Askari, J., Nakhjavani, M., Shirkhoda, S., Barzegar, K., Mozayyan, M. R., & Fallahzadeh, H. (2011). The relationship between study skills and academic performance of university students. Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, 30, 1416-1424.
Madan CR. Using Evidence-Based Learning Strategies to Improve Medical Education. Med Sci Educ. 2023 May 6;33(3):773-776.
Purdie, N., & Hattie, J. (1999). The Relationship between Study Skills and Learning Outcomes: A Meta-Analysis. Australian Journal of Education, 43(1), 72-86.
Vemu, S., Denaro, K., Sato, B. K., & Williams, A. E. (2022). Moving the needle: Evidence of an effective study strategy intervention in a community college biology course. CBE—Life Sciences Education, 21(2), 1-12.
Walck-Shannon, E. M., Rowell, S. F., & Frey, R. F. (2021). To What Extent Do Study Habits Relate to Performance? CBE—Life Sciences Education, 20(1).