3 tips to revamp your study strategy

As we launch headfirst into a new semester, take advantage of the slow first week of classes to make a strategic plan for this term. Think about how you studied for your exams last semester - what worked, what didn't? 

​Today I share 3 tips to consider when revamping your study strategy.

eat for brain power

Your diet plays a massive part in how well your body functions, brain included. From eating breakfast so your hunger doesn't interfere with your learning, to drinking enough water so that you can focus, what you eat is important when it comes to learning.

Snacking during long study sessions can mimic our same eating habits while mindlessly watching TV - not great! Sit down and eat a balanced meal before starting your study sessions, and keep water nearby to sip on as you learn. Use breaks (work 25 to 55 mins, then take a 5 min break) for additional snacks. Treat your study space as a work zone - not the kitchen counter. 

Avoiding large meals and junk foods while you're studying can help you feel more alert and focused. Prepare some healthy, energy-boosting snacks for study sessions - whether at home or the library - to help you feel your best. 

sleep to learn

While we consume information during the day, we truly learn it while we sleep. When we sleep, our body undergoes repairs and our brain creates connections between what we know and what we were exposed to that day. When looking at your schedule it may be tempting to sacrifice sleep so that you can get the extra studying in, but those hours of studying will be a waste. If you're exhausted, that information won't stick! Focus on planning out your day so you have time to complete your most important tasks, and approach your studying strategically so you're not spending hours reading when that's not your strongest learning style.

try a new layout

When reviewing material you've already learned, change up how you learn. Using active learning strategies challenges your brain to recall the same information in a different way, leading to new neural connections and a better understanding of the big picture.

If the information you're reviewing is amenable to vocabulary-like quizzing, consider using a word search maker or creating your own matching worksheet. Many teachers have a matching section on their quizzes, so it's a great way to study the information.




​What is your experience with changing your lifestyle to improve your study habits?