Method of Study
Studying is not just about reading books or memorizing notes. It is a process that involves
planning, understanding, applying, and revising knowledge in a systematic way. Different
students learn in different styles, but there are some universal methods that can help almost
everyone. Below are some detailed and practical study methods:
---
1. The Pomodoro Technique
This technique helps maintain focus without feeling exhausted. You set a timer for 25
minutes of focused study, followed by a 5-minute break. After completing four cycles, you
take a longer break (15–30 minutes).
Why it works:
Our brain tends to lose concentration after 20–30 minutes.
Short breaks prevent mental fatigue.
It creates urgency, so you avoid procrastination.
Tip: During breaks, don’t scroll on your phone. Instead, stretch, drink water, or rest your
eyes.
---
2. Active Recall
Instead of just re-reading your textbook or notes, test yourself. This could be by writing down
what you remember, using flashcards, or asking yourself questions.
Example: If you studied a Psychology theory, close your book and explain it in your own
words. If you can’t recall it, you know what to revise.
Why it works:
Forces your brain to retrieve information.
Strengthens long-term memory.
Helps identify weak areas.
---
3. Spaced Repetition
Instead of cramming the night before an exam, revise material in intervals. For example:
Review once after 1 day.
Again after 3 days.
Then after 7 days.
Finally after 15–30 days.
This method uses the forgetting curve — we forget quickly unless we revise. Spacing
reviews over time makes knowledge stick.
Tip: Use flashcard apps like Anki or simple notebooks to schedule revisions.
---
4. The Feynman Technique
One of the best ways to check understanding is to teach it to someone else. If you cannot
explain it in simple words, you haven’t mastered it yet.
Steps:
1. Pick a topic you are learning.
2. Try to explain it as if you’re teaching a child.
3. Identify gaps in your explanation.
4. Go back, revise, and simplify again.
This method works wonderfully for subjects like Psychology (explaining theories) and
English Literature (explaining themes).
---
5. Mind Mapping
Mind maps are diagrams that connect ideas visually. Start with a central topic in the middle
and branch out to sub-topics, keywords, and examples.
Why it helps:
Great for visual learners.
Shows relationships between concepts.
Useful for essays and long-answer questions.
Example: For English Literature, put the name of the novel/play in the center and branch out
into “Themes,” “Characters,” “Symbols,” “Quotes,” etc.
---
6. Cornell Note-Taking System
Divide your page into three sections:
Notes (main ideas, explanations).
Cues (keywords or questions).
Summary (write a short summary at the bottom).
This structure makes revision easy because you can cover the “Notes” section and test
yourself with the “Cues.”
---
7. Practice with Past Papers
No study method is complete without practice. Doing past papers helps you:
Understand the exam format.
Manage time better.
Get used to writing under pressure.
Tip: Always practice under timed conditions, not casually. It trains your brain to recall faster.
---
8. Healthy Routine for Better Studying
Studying is not just about books — your lifestyle matters.
Sleep: 7–8 hours is essential for memory.
Exercise: Improves blood flow to the brain.
Diet: Include nuts, fruits, and green vegetables.
Hydration: Drink enough water to stay alert.
---
9. Study Environment
Where and how you study can decide how effective your session will be.
Keep your desk clean and organized.
Avoid noise and distractions.
Switch off unnecessary notifications.
Study in the same spot daily — it conditions your brain.
---
10. Self-Motivation and Rewards
Studying can feel overwhelming, so reward yourself after completing tasks. For example:
Finish one chapter → watch a short video.
Complete an assignment → take a walk.
Revise for two hours → enjoy your favorite snack.
This builds positive reinforcement and reduces burnout.
---
Conclusion
There is no “one-size-fits-all” method of study. The most successful students are those who
experiment, adapt, and stay consistent. Using Pomodoro helps with focus, active recall
strengthens memory, spaced repetition ensures long-term retention, and good lifestyle habits
keep the brain fresh.
By combining these methods and adjusting them according to your subject and personal
style, you can build an effective study system that not only prepares you for exams but also
develops lifelong learning skills.
