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8 Ways for Students to Develop a Growth Mindset (And Become Excited About Learning!)

Updated on February 12, 2025 By Daniel Wong 2 Comments

Growth mindset for teensHave you ever told yourself you’d never be good at a particular skill or subject?

If so, you may have a fixed mindset.

A fixed mindset is the belief that everyone is born with certain strengths and weaknesses that cannot be changed.

The opposite of this is called a growth mindset. This mindset motivates you to learn new things and embrace challenges.

Thoughts are powerful. They influence how you respond to setbacks in life.

In this article, we’ll discuss how a growth mindset can help you as a student. We’ll also explore what you can do to start building and nurturing this mindset.

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What are the characteristics of a growth mindset?

Students with a growth mindset believe they can learn and improve any skill through practice and effort.

Some characteristics of a growth mindset include the following:

  • Embracing challenges, even those that come with the risk of failure
  • Being willing to step outside your comfort zone to learn new things
  • Constantly looking for ways to improve and to test new strategies
  • Feeling inspired rather than jealous of other people’s success
  • Asking questions and owning up to your mistakes
  • Seeing mistakes as an opportunity to learn and grow
  • Embracing constructive feedback and advice
  • Viewing failure as temporary, not permanent

As a student, you can apply a growth mindset to every area of your life, including your studies, health, and relationships.

Why is a growth mindset important for students?

A growth mindset motivates you to learn and grow. It helps you focus on what you can do to improve instead of getting caught up with how to impress others.

Some benefits of a growth mindset include the following:

  • More resilience. Having a growth mindset allows you to bounce back more quickly. Instead of giving up, you’ll view mistakes as opportunities to learn and improve your skills or abilities.
  • Greater adaptability. This mindset teaches you to embrace change. It also motivates you to find creative solutions to problems.
  • Less stress and anxiety. Research shows that a growth mindset can help you manage and reduce stress. It enables you to maintain a positive and optimistic attitude.
  • Healthy coping mechanisms. This mindset leads to better mental health, and helps you develop positive coping mechanisms. For example, a growth mindset helps you focus on solving problems rather than worrying about what others think.

Ultimately, a growth mindset increases your chances of achieving your goals and finding fulfillment.

8 ways to develop a growth mindset in the classroom

When it comes to mindset, you can’t just flip the switch. It takes time to cultivate a healthier approach toward your academics and life in general.

The following are eight ways you can start nurturing a growth mindset as a student:

1. Practice self-reflection

Teen self reflection

Self-reflection is a powerful tool that can expose your unhealthy thinking patterns.

Spend a little time each day reflecting on your thoughts. Which thoughts pushed you closer to your goals, and which thoughts pulled you further from them?

Look out for unhelpful thinking patterns. Some examples of these thoughts include, “That’s just the way I am,” or “I’ll never be good at math.”

As you identify unhelpful thinking patterns, you can start replacing them with growth mindset phrases.

For instance, instead of saying, “I’m so bad at chemistry,” you can tell yourself, “I’m working on getting better at chemistry.”

You can also replace them with encouraging quotes to keep your mind focused on growth and resilience.

Remember that it takes time to change your thinking. Practice being conscious of how you talk to yourself, especially when you face obstacles.

2. Embrace challenges

Challenges are part of the growing process. If you want to embrace challenges in your life, it’s important to accept that you’ll likely feel uncomfortable.

Maybe you’re trying out a new sport or taking on a leadership role in a club at school. These new challenges might cause you to feel insecure or stressed. You might even feel like giving up.

Remind yourself that these unpleasant feelings are only temporary. On the other hand, what you learn will stay with you throughout your life.

Another way to build perseverance through challenges is to learn how to manage stress well.

One way to do this is to come up with a list of activities you find relaxing.

Journaling, meditation, exercising, or listening to music are some possible examples. Have this list handy. And when you’re feeling stressed, pick one activity from the list and spend 10 minutes on it.

3. Set task-oriented goals

Setting goals builds discipline and accountability. It helps you to focus on what you can do to improve and grow.

Research shows that the type of goals you set for yourself can make a big difference.

Setting goals based on grades or scores alone isn’t beneficial. It adds unnecessary stress and doesn’t provide a clear action plan.

On the other hand, setting task-based goals is much more effective.

Let’s say you’re studying for your math exam. Try not to set a goal like “get an A on the math exam.”

Instead, create task-based goals. An example is “complete three timed practice exams before the actual exam.” Make sure the goal is measurable, achievable, and specific.

These goals focus more on the process than the end result, which is critical for building a growth mindset.

4. Ask mentors for support

Parent and teen drinking tean together

A mentor is someone you can turn to for advice and support. A good mentor encourages you and helps you believe in yourself.

You can enroll in a mentoring or coaching program. Mentors or coaches usually provide academic and other kinds of support.

They may also teach you valuable skills, such as how to find internship opportunities.

Mentorship focuses on reflection and on improving yourself – essential approaches for nurturing a growth mindset.

5. Cultivate curiosity

Having a curious mind encourages you to explore and to develop new solutions. It also leads to a passion for learning, which is a key ingredient of a growth mindset.

Cultivating curiosity is like strengthening a muscle. The following are some ways for you to activate your curiosity muscle:

  • Avoid shying away from things that are new or unfamiliar, like learning a new sport
  • Accept that uncertainty and discomfort are a natural part of learning
  • Learn about your friends’ or family member’s life experiences
  • Get into the habit of asking why more often
  • Ask questions when you don’t understand something

6. Learn to love the process, not the end result

I touched on this briefly in Point 3, but let me expand on the concept further here.

Focusing on the end result can leave you feeling extremely disappointed or discouraged if you don’t achieve what you were hoping for.

On the flip side, learning to love the process means you’ll be less stressed and more resilient.

No matter the outcome, you’ll be motivated because of the knowledge and experience you stand to gain.

Here are some practices that can teach you how to enjoy the process:

  • Experiment with different processes and strategies. For instance, you can try out different study strategies and techniques. Examples include mind mapping, spaced repetition, or the Feynman technique. By doing this, you’ll discover which methods are the most effective and enjoyable for you.
  • Break down big tasks into smaller steps. This makes a big goal or project more manageable. It can also make the process more fulfilling as you tick off each small step along the way.
  • Take time to celebrate. Celebrate both the big and small wins. When you accomplish a goal, reward yourself with something you enjoy. For instance, you can treat yourself to a nice meal or watch your favorite movie.
  • Be grateful for what you have. From time to time, reflect on what you’ve achieved and learned. Think about the progress you’ve made so far. Gratitude gives you a sense of fulfillment as you reflect on how far you’ve come.

7. Seek constructive feedback

Teenager using tablet

Constructive feedback is priceless and can help you grow in different areas of life. After all, we all have blind spots.

Knowing who to seek feedback from is crucial.

If you’re learning a new sport, ask your coach or trainer about areas you can improve in.

Perhaps you’re struggling with a specific class. Your teacher is in the best position to give you meaningful advice.

When seeking feedback, it’s essential to ask the right kind of question.

A question like “Do you have any feedback on my work?” will probably get you a quick “no” as a reply.

Instead, ask, “What areas can I work on?” or “What could I have done better during my presentation?” These open-ended questions will lead to more in-depth answers and advice.

Also, ask for feedback as soon as you’re able to. The fresher the experience, the more accurate the feedback will be.

8. Learn from your mistakes

A key characteristic of a growth mindset is the willingness to admit and learn from your mistakes.

The following are practices that will prevent you from repeating your errors and will enable you to apply what you’ve learned:

  • Own up to your mistakes instead of looking for someone or something else to blame
  • Do what you need to do to rectify the mistake, for instance, paying for something you lost or damaged
  • View mistakes as opportunities to learn
  • Reflect on what went wrong and on what you could have done better
  • Seek help or advice from people you trust on how you can prevent these mistakes in the future

Don’t punish yourself for your shortcomings. No one is perfect.

What’s most important is that you continue to learn, grow, and improve.

Conclusion

Knowing you can change is essential. It encourages you to get better day by day.

This way of thinking also empowers you to be more confident when you’re faced with obstacles.

Having a fixed mindset means you’ll always doubt your abilities and limit yourself in what you think you can achieve.

But with a growth mindset, you’ll develop essential life skills and grow in character too.

This will help you succeed in school, in your future career, and in any other goals you set!

(If you haven’t downloaded your quick action guide yet, you can do so below.)

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How to Make Studying Fun: 12 Tips to Enjoy Your Study Sessions

Updated on September 30, 2024 By Daniel Wong 16 Comments

How to make studying funDoes studying feel like a chore to you?

If you feel unmotivated, bored, or anxious when it comes to studying, you’re not alone.

Studying does have its benefits. It helps you to get good grades, learn new things, and build much-needed life skills for teens and young adults.

And while balance is extremely important, studying will always be a core part of student life.

The good news is that any student can learn to make studying productive and fun.

Yes, you read that right. Studying can be fun! In fact, you can learn how to get into a flow state and make time fly as you work on your assignments.

Let’s explore ways to make studying more enjoyable.

(If you sometimes procrastinate or lack focus, make sure you download the quick action guide below.)

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Tip #1: Stop saying “I have to study”

At times, we may not be attentive enough to the words we say to ourselves. But these words can shape how we view ourselves and the situations in our lives.

The next time you have an upcoming exam, observe how you speak to yourself about it.

You might say something like, “I have to study for the exam.” Once you say this, your brain is wired to think about studying as a chore you have to do – rather than something you choose to do.

What should you say instead?

Replace “have to” with either “choose to” or “get to.”

When you say “I choose to study for the exam,” it’s a reminder that nobody is putting a gun to your head and forcing you to study. It’s a decision that you get to make.

And when you say “I get to study for the exam,” you’re reminding yourself that there are millions of children and teenagers around the world who want to go to school, but who don’t have the opportunity to.

Tip #2: Remind yourself that grades aren’t what matter most

As a student, it’s easy to become too focused on your grades.

That’s understandable. There’s satisfaction you derive from seeing your test scores go up or from getting compliments from your teachers and parents.

Getting good grades is a positive goal and it’s something worth working toward. But it isn’t the only important part of your student life.

Becoming fixated on grades will only lead to unnecessary stress. This will hurt your academic performance too.

It’s the process of learning from your mistakes and improving that matters in the long run.

Tip #3: Study in shorter blocks

study sessionDo you find that your concentration wanes after 45 or 60 minutes of studying?

Pushing yourself to study for long stretches at a go takes the joy out of learning.

A practical study tip is to break down your study sessions into shorter blocks.

You can implement a method called the Pomodoro technique. This technique is a simple yet effective tool for focused work.

Here’s how you can apply it during your study sessions:

  • Set a specific task for your study session.
  • Set a timer for 25 minutes.
  • Work on the task until the timer rings.
  • Take a five-minute break. (Set a timer for the break too.)
  • Repeat the steps listed above.
  • Take a longer break of 15-30 minutes every four rounds.

Of course, you can experiment with the exact length of each study session to find what works best for you. An app like the Productivity Challenge Timer can also help you in this process.

Tip #4: Write down the tasks and assignments you’ve completed

We’ve all heard of a to-do list, but here’s another type of list you should keep: a “done” list.

Keep a record of the tasks and assignments you’ve completed. You can organize these tasks based on their completion date.

But how does a “done” list help? It reminds you to give yourself a pat on the back for what you’ve accomplished.

Keeping a “done” list will make you feel more motivated.

It will also allow you to keep track of the tasks you’ve finished – just in case you can’t remember what’s been completed and what’s still pending.

Tip #5: Cultivate a sense of curiosity

Student readingIf you want to enjoy studying, you need to go beyond surface-level learning.

Yes, a significant part of studying involves reading the materials given to you and memorizing important bits of information.

But this gets boring pretty fast, doesn’t it?

So try this instead…

Ask yourself questions throughout the learning process. It’s an effective way to pick up new concepts.

This study found that participants who asked themselves questions and answered them during the learning process learned the material better.

Here are some questions you can ask yourself while studying:

  • How is this new concept related to what I already know?
  • How can this information be applied in the real world?
  • What are some real-life examples of this theory in action?
  • How was this concept or theory discovered?

If you run into a question you can’t answer, a quick online search is likely to yield an answer.

Tip #6: Get creative with your notes

You can use digital note-taking apps to make your notes more enjoyable to read. For instance, you can add colors, diagrams, icons, and creative fonts to a digital canvas.

If you prefer taking notes with pen and paper, try using colorful highlighters or markers to draw your attention to the key points.

This study suggests that color coding can improve your attention and memory when studying. It can also enhance how your brain processes and organizes information.

Mindmaps are another way to bring your notes to life.

Mindmaps are diagrams that represent concepts and ideas. Mindmaps demonstrate how these concepts and ideas are linked to a central topic and each other.

Mindmaps can encourage intuitive learning by structuring the information clearly.

Tip #7: Invest in stationery you love

stationary items for fun note takingIf you love the stationery you use while studying, the process of studying will become more fun.

You might choose to invest in stationery like:

  • Special highlighters
  • Uniquely-shaped paperclips
  • Washi tape
  • Colorful sticky notes

You can also make note-taking more exciting by using cool notebooks and pens that are nice to write with.

Tip #8: Find a motivated study group

One way to stay on track academically is to study with friends who share the same goals as you. These study sessions can be done online or in person.

Study groups work because accountability can play a huge role in enabling you to form the right study habits.

Start by deciding when you’ll study together on a weekly basis. Then, you can keep each other accountable by encouraging everyone to show up for each study session.

Group study sessions help to break the monotony of studying. Through these sessions, you’ll learn from your friends and you’ll get to compare notes too.

Tip #9: Listen to music (but be wise about your music choices)

studying to musicListening to music can help to reduce stress. It can also improve concentration and enhance learning.

But you need to be cautious when curating your study playlist.

Not all kinds of music are helpful. Certain types of music can be distracting.

Loud and fast music (especially songs with lyrics) can reduce focus. In contrast, soft and slow background music without lyrics can improve focus.

Experiment with different playlists to find what works best for you.

Tip #10: Integrate interactive learning materials into your study plan

Sticking to just one learning format can become tiresome and boring. That’s why it’s a good idea to mix things up!

So, why not explore different formats and modes of learning?

If you have access to the internet, there are thousands of free resources at your fingertips.

These resources might come in the form of:

  • Video lessons
  • Interactive lectures
  • Printable worksheets
  • Learning apps and games
  • Downloadable resource kits
  • Online quizzes
  • Online and printable flashcards
  • Digital guides

Use at least a couple of these types of learning materials to make your study sessions more interesting.

Tip #11: Use apps that make it fun to focus

Here are a few apps I recommend:

  • Study Bunny: This app comes with a study tracker and focus timer. You’ll get a virtual study buddy bunny that you can customize with the coins you earn.
  • Habitica: This app uses in-game rewards to help you build good habits and stay consistent.
  • Forest: In this app, each time you start a focused study session, you plant a virtual tree that keeps growing as long as you stay on task. You can use the coins you earn to make a donation to plant a real tree.

Tip #12: Make your own flashcards

custom flash cards

Flashcards incorporate both words and pictures to help you actively recall information.

How do flashcards work?

One side of the flashcard has a question, and the flip side has the answer. After you read the question, say your answer out loud before flipping over the flashcard to see if you got it right.

For example, one side of the flashcard could say, “What type of organisms are bacteria?”

The flip side could say, “Prokaryotes.”

Using flashcards is a better approach than just passively reading the textbook or notes.

You can make your own flashcards by using index cards or regular paper cut into smaller pieces.

Alternatively, you can use an app like Quizlet or Anki. These apps come with pre-made and customizable digital flashcards that cover a wide range of subjects.

Conclusion

Many students find studying to be boring, stressful, and tedious.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

Studying can be fun. It all depends on the mindset you have and how you approach each study session.

Take a couple of the tips in this article and apply them in the coming week. I’m sure you’ll start to enjoy the learning process more!

(Don’t forget to download your quick action guide below.)

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How to Study Productively: 14 Tips to Maximize Your Effort and Time

Updated on December 17, 2024 By Daniel Wong 4 Comments

how to study productivelyDo you want to get more studying done in less time?

Of course, you do.

But it’s the night before your exams. You’ve been seated at your study table for three long hours. But you’ve hardly made progress.

There are too many distractions: social media, text messages, snacks, and videos.

You’ve revisited the same paragraph five times and still have no idea what it’s about. No matter how hard you try, you can’t absorb anything you read.

Frustrating, isn’t it?

Being able to study efficiently is the key to improved performance and a better school-life balance.

If you study productively, you’ll have time to relax, hang out with friends and family, and do other things you love!

The powerful strategies in this article will help you deal with productivity killers like procrastination and burnout.

Let’s get started!

(If you struggle with procrastination and distractions, make sure to also download the quick action guide below.)

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Tip #1: Record yourself on camera while studying

Using your phone’s camera to record yourself makes it seem like someone is watching you as you study.

That might sound a bit creepy, but you’ll be less likely to give in to distractions. And you’ll be more likely to stick to your study plan.

Give this tip a try during your next study session!

Tip #2: Study with an online accountability partner

Studying online

Have you ever had a study session with friends?

Group study sessions work for some people, but not everyone.

A tool like Focusmate can come in handy in these situations. With Focusmate, you’ll be paired with a real-life accountability partner (who’s a stranger) online.

During each session, you’ll both work independently on your own tasks. At the same time, you’ll leave your camera and audio on so you can see and hear each other.

No hanging out or chatting is allowed while you’re both working.

Your accountability partner can report you if you’re late, don’t show up, or goof off during the session. If your compliance score falls too low, you may be booted off the system.

This is a great way to establish accountability while you study!

Other similar platforms include Study Together and Fiveable.

Tip #3: Create a study plan for each week

A study plan helps you clarify your goals for the week.

Something vague like “study chemistry” isn’t going to cut it. Instead, include enough details so you can track your progress along the way.

For example, “read chemistry notes for chapters 1 to 5 and create flashcards for all equations” is much better as a target to achieve for chemistry for the week.

Focus on the bigger picture. Plan out your week in terms of the specific work you need to complete by the end of the week.

If you have a clear and specific weekly plan, you’ll be less likely to procrastinate because you know exactly where to start.

Tip #4: Create a plan for each study session

making a list of goals

This is an excellent method to help you focus while studying.

Before you start the study session, write down the tasks you want to work on during the session.

For example, your plan could list the following tasks:

  • Read chapter 1 of math textbook
  • Create summary notes for chapter 1
  • List formulas to memorize for chapter 1
  • Do online quiz for chapter 1

You can leave this written plan on your desk as a reminder of what you’re aiming to accomplish.

Tip #5: Create a study-friendly environment

Reducing clutter and distractions creates a conducive environment to study in.

Studies have found that a cluttered desk increases stress. It can also negatively affect productivity and reduce motivation.

So it’s a good idea to keep only the items, books, and materials you’ll need on your desk for each task.

For example, keep only a calculator, pen, pencil, eraser, and the assignment on your table while doing your math homework. If your desk is untidy, take a few minutes to organize it before you start studying.

Keeping your desk clutter-free is one piece of the puzzle. The next step is to keep it distraction-free.

In this study, researchers found that more smartphone use led to lower productivity. (No surprise there, right?)

Smartphone use may interfere with how well your brain engages with the material you’re studying. Smartphone use can also make your tasks less enjoyable and harder to complete.

So if you’re frequently distracted by your digital devices, put them away while you study. You can place them in a different room or you can turn them off completely.

Tip #6: Block out distracting sounds with headphones

multitaskWearing headphones or earphones helps to reduce distractions and reminds you that you’re in the middle of a study session.

Doing this also lets other people know you’re busy. As such, they’ll be less likely to interrupt you.

If you really don’t enjoy listening to music while studying, you can still wear headphones or earphones without any music playing.

That being said, listening to music while studying can improve your focus and mood. Research shows that listening to music can reduce mind-wandering.

Classical music is a good place to start. But if you don’t like classical music, check out Brain.fm. This platform offers music designed to help you create and maintain deep focus.

Tip #7: Take deep breaths before each study session

This research study found that breathing exercises increase alertness. They can also reduce stress, anger, and confusion.

By regulating your breathing, you can lower your levels of a stress hormone called cortisol. You’ll also get more oxygen flowing to your brain, thus improving your focus and mood.

Here’s how to get started with a simple breathing exercise before your next study session:

  • Close your eyes
  • Breathe in through your nose for four seconds
  • Breathe out through your mouth for four seconds
  • Repeat this three times

Bonus tip: Try this right before bed to fall asleep faster!

Tip #8: Write down any distracting thoughts

Part of learning how to study productively involves finding a strategy to deal with distractions.

As much as you can try to reduce distractions, they’ll still occur. What’s crucial is how you deal with them when they do.

Here’s what you can do the next time distraction comes knocking on your door…

Write it down.

Let me explain. Let’s say you’re studying for a biology test. Out of the blue, you feel the urge to search for a new show to watch during your leisure time.

You know this will lead you down a rabbit hole. And you can’t afford for that to happen now. So write down “look for new show” on a piece of paper, then go back to studying.

Every time a distracting thought pops into your head, write it down. Then during your next study break, go ahead and “do” the items or activities written on the piece of paper.

Why does this technique work?

Because you’ve acknowledged your urge without giving in to it. With that, your brain can redirect its focus back to what you were doing.

Tip #9: Follow a routine

You’re not alone if you have trouble getting motivated to study.

That’s where following a routine helps. When you establish a routine, it becomes easier for you to get started on your tasks.

Routines empower you to form beneficial, long-lasting study habits.

Let’s say you want to create a timeslot for studying or homework in your schedule. In this case, your routine might be: “Study from 5 pm to 6:30 pm every weekday.”

If this feels too restrictive, start by following the routine for just a couple of days each week. For instance, you could start with only Wednesdays and Thursdays.

With a well-established routine, you won’t have to rely on motivation to get started. You’ll get started simply because it’s a part of your routine.

That said, developing a cue will make your routine even more effective.

What’s a cue?

A cue signals to your brain, “Hey, it’s time to get moving!” It creates an impulse to act.

Researchers have found that cues are a vital part of habit formation.

You can create a cue by associating a specific behavior or place with starting a study session. Some examples include:

  • Hanging a sign on your door that says “Study session in progress”
  • Putting on your noise-canceling headphones
  • Going to the library
  • Placing your electronic devices in another room
  • Brewing a cup of tea

Find a cue that works for you. Then you’ll realize that it isn’t so hard to get started on your schoolwork after all!

Tip #10: Limit your study hours

This probably isn’t the advice you’d expect. After all, isn’t studying more the secret to succeeding in school?

I always encourage students to study smart. Here’s how you can study effectively and get better grades in school: Get enough sleep.

According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, those between the ages of 13 and 18 should sleep 8 to 10 hours per day.

Doing so improves concentration and reduces the risk of health problems. It also enhances memory and facilitates learning.

Of course, I’m not saying you shouldn’t work hard. But it’s also important to lead a balanced life.

Set a strict deadline to stop studying each day, e.g. 9:30 pm. Then make sure you don’t do any work after that time.

Setting a fixed end time like this establishes a firm boundary, so you’ll be far more likely to get all your work done before then.

Tip #11: Time your study sessions and breaks

Time your study sessionsDoes your focus dwindle after a long study session?

Here’s how to study productively: Take a 5- to 10-minute break every 30 to 45 minutes.

Time your study sessions so you know when to take a break. Likewise, time your breaks so you know when to start studying again.

You don’t want to fall into the trap of procrastination or losing track of time.

To avoid this, set the alarm to go off when it’s time to get back to work.

Tip #12: Prepare a pre-study session checklist

Checklists ensure you don’t miss any steps in an important process.

Pilots, astronauts, and surgeons use checklists to ensure that things go smoothly.

In the same way, you (or your parents) might bring a list to the grocery store to make sure you get everything you need.

Checklists are a practical tool to help you as you learn how to study productively. Plus, they’ll enable you to stay organized as a student.

So what should you put in your pre-study session checklist?

You can include some of the following:

  • Set up study space
  • Place devices in another room
  • Fill a bottle of water
  • Set up timer
  • Hang up “do not disturb” sign
  • Turn on study music

Tip #13: Sit straight and maintain good posture

Research shows that good posture improves mood and productivity. At the same time, it reduces your risk of injury.

Here are some posture tips if you spend hours each day sitting at a desk:

  • Keep your feet flat on the floor
  • Sit with a straight back
  • Your knees should be at the same level as your hips
  • Keep your shoulders and neck relaxed

Here’s a related tip: Whenever you take a study break, move around. Do some squats or some jumping jacks. This approach is called “exercise snacking” and has loads of health benefits.

Also, do your best to avoid studying in bed. You can’t maintain good posture while lying in bed, and you might just fall asleep accidentally!

Tip #14: Break big tasks into smaller ones

studying productivelyMost people get overwhelmed by big and complex tasks. This can cause you to become demotivated.

The trick is to break big projects into smaller, more manageable chunks.

For example, you could break a physics poster presentation down into the following sub-tasks:

  • Read chapter 1 and 2
  • Summarize the main points
  • Research new points to include
  • Plan out the sub-headings for the poster
  • Plan out content to include in bullet points
  • Write the paper
  • Decorate the poster
  • Write the presentation script in bullet points
  • Flesh out the presentation script
  • Practice the presentation three times from start to end

There’s no need to write down all the sub-tasks at one go. Just make sure that you always know what the next sub-task to work on is.

Conclusion

Productive studying is a skill any student can master.

The tips in this article will help you maximize the progress you make during each study session.

Choose two or three strategies from the list and implement them in the coming week. After you get used to applying those strategies, pick a couple more to add to your study routine.

Eventually, you’ll learn how to get into a flow state when studying.

It’ll be worth the effort, I promise!

I encourage you to get started today. 🙂

(And don’t forget to download your quick action guide below, if you haven’t already done so.)

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How to Overcome the Fear of Learning in 5 Steps

January 30, 2023 By Daniel Wong 5 Comments

fear of learning

Learning can be challenging at times – even scary.

But discovering how to manage that fear leads to growth, both as a student and a person.

If you’re looking for ways to overcome the fear of learning, you’re in the right place.

During childhood, resilience comes naturally. For example, toddlers learning to walk fall hundreds of times before they’re able to walk.

Yet they don’t give up and decide that they should just permanently go back to crawling.

Many students develop a fear of learning when they start taking tests and exams in school. The emphasis on getting good grades rather than on the process of learning can increase anxiety and stress in students.

It can begin to feel like the effort isn’t worth it. This is how the fear of learning can prevent students from pursuing meaningful goals and dreams.

This article will show you how to overcome this fear. Let’s begin by exploring how the fear of learning develops.

(But first, make sure to download your quick action guide below!)

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Do you have a fear of learning?

Originating from the Greek word Sophia – meaning “wisdom” or “knowledge” – sophophobia is the fear of learning.

According to Healthline, a phobia is an excessive and irrational fear reaction. When confronted with the source of your fear, you may enter a state of panic and experience feelings of dread.

If you have a fear of learning, you may:

  • Feel uneasy before tests and exams
  • Lose focus when you’re studying
  • Feel uncomfortable about answering questions in class
  • Worry that you won’t be able to perform well academically

In addition to interfering with your studying, the fear of learning can affect your quality of life and future prospects.

Let’s break it down further to the fear of exams and the fear of studying. Let’s start with the fear of exams.

Fear of exams

fear of exams

Do you feel like you forget everything you’ve studied as soon as you sit down to take a test?

Or do exams make you feel nervous or even unwell?

When it comes to exams, students often place too much emphasis on the grade or outcome rather than the process. Feelings of overwhelm develop as the pressure builds, which can ruin your concentration during exams.

As expected, this gets in the way of being calm, present, and relaxed.

The key to overcoming the fear of exams is to shift your mindset. Focus on doing the things within your control: studying effectively, doing enough practice questions, getting enough rest, and eating right.

You can also learn how to relieve stress before a test so you can be a calmer, happier, and more successful student.

Focus on learning the necessary information and mastering the key concepts. Whatever the result, you’ll know you put in an excellent effort. From there, you can find ways to adjust your studying strategies to reduce your anxiety.

Fear of studying

As the exams approach, students become all too aware that they should be studying. For many students, this is when fear starts to build.

Sleep issues, unhealthy food choices, and stress can influence how focused you are when studying. These factors can also increase the negative emotional associations you have with studying.

Research shows that stressful experiences affect learning and memory processes. It’s common for cortisol – the stress hormone – to kick in when you have an important exam or deadline coming up.

Many students turn to avoidance as a coping mechanism. But the better approach is to take control of negative feelings by applying effective study strategies.

Start by identifying your bad study habits and changing them one by one.

How to overcome the fear of learning

Fear can be a motivator for success, but the key is to never let fear take control. You must take productive action despite the fear.

Here are the five steps to overcome the fear of learning:

1. Identify and understand the fear

To overcome the fear of learning, you must specifically identify what causes you to feel afraid.

Students often experience the fear of failure, fear of blanking out during exams, or fear of being unable to meet deadlines or expectations.

Take a step back so you can identify the fear, assess it, and determine what’s at the root of it.

2. Create a plan

Once you understand the fear, create a plan to work through it. This plan should be practical and actionable.

You can work with a coach or teacher to build your confidence and improve your study skills. Test-taking strategies can also help to ease your anxiety.

Write down a list of specific actions you plan to take. For example, you might decide that you will:

  • Read through your class notes once you get home from school every day
  • Do at least three practice tests/exams before every test/exam
  • Review all of your graded assignments
  • Make flashcards for specific subjects

When you focus on what you can control, you won’t feel as afraid.

3. Implement and refine the plan

student practicing

When it comes to dealing with the fear of learning, you need to implement your plan and break it down into manageable chunks.

For example, if you have a biology exam coming up, you might decide that you’ll review all your class notes twice. You’ll also do three timed practice exams.

As you study, highlight anything you have questions about or need clarification on from your teacher. Change up the memory techniques that you use too.

Implement these strategies gradually to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

It’s also easier to avoid feeling overwhelmed if you do things in smaller chunks.

For example, if you have an upcoming math exam, you can start by choosing 15 practice questions for each topic that you’ll be tested on. Each time you get to work, choose just five practice questions and focus on completing them – don’t worry about the rest of the questions. You’ll get to them eventually during your upcoming study sessions.

4. Don’t be in a hurry

If you feel pressured to make many huge changes now, it will lead to underperformance. You may also find that your fear of learning has increased!

Give yourself time to put your plan into practice, and make progress at a comfortable pace. Set aside time each day to study, review your notes, and visualize yourself calmly taking the test.

Remember that school and life aren’t a competition. Put one step in front of the other, and you’ll eventually reach your destination without burning out.

5. Develop a process-oriented mindset

Mindset

We all like rewards. In fact, you may have a routine in place where you give yourself a reward after completing each assignment.

There’s nothing wrong with using this approach once in a while. But if you overdo it, your intrinsic motivation will decrease because you’ll be too focused on the reward and the outcome.

Reframe your approach to focus on the process instead. Find joy in the process of learning and attaining mastery. When you acquire knowledge and understand concepts, be satisfied with the progress you’re making on your journey of education.

This is easier said than done, but it will pay off in the long run, both in terms of better grades and greater fulfillment.

To become more process-oriented, don’t tell yourself that something is “too hard.” Instead, tell yourself that it’s an opportunity to challenge yourself and grow.

As you change your thoughts and perspective, your fear of learning will diminish.

Conclusion

Fear is a normal and natural part of life.

But as the title of Susan Jeffers’ bestselling book recommends, we ought to feel the fear and do it anyway.

If you follow the 5 steps outlined in this article, you’ll be on your way to managing and overcoming your fear of learning.

Today’s the day to get started!

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Filed Under: Attitude, Courage, Education, Learning, Motivation, Taking action

Coaching for Teens: Can It Help My Teen to Become Motivated?

Updated on April 28, 2025 By Daniel Wong Leave a Comment

coaching for teens

Are you having a hard time getting your teenager to study, do chores, or participate in family activities?

Maybe you’ve noticed that your teenager seems unmotivated and directionless.

You’ve been watching your teenager avoid challenges, behave irresponsibly, and spend hours on his or her phone.

As a parent, you’ve been doing everything you can think of to get through to your teenager.

If this sounds like the situation in your home, it’s time to consider engaging a coach for your teenager.

Your teenager’s performance in all areas of life will greatly improve when he or she connects with an experienced coach.

This article explores the purpose of coaching, so you can decide if it’s the right solution for your teenager.

Signs that your teen needs a coach

Here are some indicators that your teen would benefit from working with a coach:

Sign #1: Your teen lacks motivation or has a negative attitude

skipping class

A particular situation or event can cause teenagers to develop negative thoughts and a negative attitude.

For example, your teen may dislike a particular teacher, so he or she stops attending class.

Or maybe your teen feels overwhelmed by everything going on in school, so he or she procrastinates as a way of escape.

A coach can help your teen to become more self-aware and inspire your teen to change for the better.

Sign #2: Your teen lacks organizational skills

Here are some signs that your teen lacks organizational skills:

  • Your teen forgets to submit homework on time
  • Your teen misplaces his or her personal items
  • Your teen doesn’t plan ahead
  • Your teen doesn’t prepare well for tests and exams
  • Your teen doesn’t keep track of events and deadlines
  • Your teen doesn’t prioritize well

A coach can work with your teenager to equip him or her with the planning and organizational skills needed to cope with the demands of school, extra-curricular activities, etc.

This process will also prepare your teen for the future, where organizational skills will matter even more in the workplace and in managing adult life.

Sign #3: Your teen is addicted to texting, gaming, social media, videos, shows, etc.

Do you frequently find your teenager in front of the TV, computer, or on his or her phone?

It’s easy for teenagers can get caught up in the digital world, which is often entertaining and addictive.

A coach can work with your teenager to find the right balance. A coach can also enable your teenager to develop healthy habits when it comes to screen time.

Sign #4: Your teen gives up easily or struggles with anxiety

Teens who lack resilience often give up when they’re faced with challenges or with tasks that require significant effort.

If this describes your teen, a coach can work with him or her to get to the root of the issue. A coach can guide your teen toward developing perseverance and a strong work ethic.

Sometimes teens need to learn strategies to break down big projects into smaller tasks. They may also need to learn to view challenges positively instead of negatively. A skilled coach will be able to help your teen in these areas too.

What benefits will your teen receive through working with a coach?

teen coach

An experienced coach is trained to help teenagers overcome their struggles so they can confidently face the future.

Here are some benefits your teen will receive through working with a coach:

Benefit #1: Your teen will develop a sense of purpose

Coaching will change your teen’s perception that school, extracurricular activities, family commitments, etc. are boring or pointless.

When teens have a strong sense of purpose, they naturally develop intrinsic motivation in all areas of their lives.

Benefit #2: Your teen will find a renewed passion for learning

At times, it may seem impossible for you to motivate your teen to study. But with support from a coach, your teen will take ownership of his or her education.

A coach will guide your teenager to develop traits like focus, confidence, and discipline. Your teen will start to take school seriously and will become an effective student.

Benefit #3: Your teen will become responsible and will make good decisions

Irresponsible choices can lead teens down the wrong path in life. Coaching will help your teenager develop responsibility and make wise decisions.

A coach will ensure that your teen has the right foundation for becoming a trustworthy and competent adult. When faced with tough choices, your teen will be equipped to choose the best path forward.

Benefit #4: Your teen will build healthy habits

Healthy habits are the building blocks of a successful and balanced life. But it isn’t always easy for parents to get their teenagers to develop new habits or eliminate harmful behaviors or thought patterns.

This is where coaching comes in.

A coach will teach your teenager how to develop the right habits and will ensure that the habits formed are permanent.

Benefit #5: Your teen will plan for the future

A coach will guide your teen to think long-term instead of short-term. Your teen will plan for the future effectively and will set meaningful goals that he or she feels inspired to work toward.

At the same time, your teen will implement customized strategies to reach those goals.

Conclusion

happy parent and teen

At some point, most teenagers will lack motivation, focus, and direction.

I encourage you to get help for your teen as soon as possible, before the situation worsens.

After reading this article, I hope you’re now aware of how your teen would benefit from coaching.

To learn more about choosing a suitable coach for your teen, read this article next. Alternatively, you can click the link in the box below…

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Filed Under: Attitude, Education, Emotions, Goals, Learning, Motivation, Personal Growth, Success, Teens

Unmotivated Teenagers: What’s Really Going On? (And How Parents Can Help)

Updated on May 3, 2025 By Daniel Wong 16 Comments

unmotivated teenagerAre you concerned that your teenager isn’t making the most of his or her potential?

Or do you worry that your teenager lacks focus?

Unmotivated teenagers cause their parents a lot of stress and frustration.

During adolescence, teens often deal with challenges like peer pressure, bullying, school-related stress, etc. These issues can affect teens’ motivation by causing them to feel overwhelmed or lost.

Parenting teens is hard, and you’re not alone if you feel like you’ve tried everything to motivate your teenager.

This article explores the possible explanations for what’s going on with unmotivated teenagers. We’ll also explore what you – as a parent – can do to help.

Of course, there are times when unmotivated teens will need professional support. This is something that we’ll discuss toward the end of the article.

Let me start by asking this question…

Why does your teenager lack motivation?

It’s essential to understand what your teenagers are going through before concluding that they’re “unmotivated.”

Perhaps you even wonder if you are doing enough to keep your teenagers motivated.

So let’s take a closer look at these 8 common reasons for teens’ lack of motivation.

Reason #1: Your teen feels discouraged or overwhelmed

Tired teenager

Growing up and developing into a young adult is a journey that has many ups and downs. Teenagers frequently feel overwhelmed, both in school and in their personal lives.

When it comes to school, the workload alone can feel daunting. Whether they’re struggling to focus in class or are unable to keep up with the work, your teenagers may be feeling distressed.

As teens get older, the material they learn in school gets significantly harder. At the same time, they become busier with extracurricular activities and their social life.

As such, most teens struggle to lead balanced lives.

Over time, self-doubt can arise in teenagers. On the outside, this may look like a lack of motivation, when the underlying emotion is actually discouragement.

Here’s where you can guide your teenagers toward understanding the power of focus and time management. Talk to them about which activities they could focus on and which to scale back on.

Of course, you should make it clear that you’re there to support your teens, but that they are fully responsible for their choices.

Reason #2: Your teen isn’t taking care of his or her physical health

Teenagers crave independence and want to make their own choices. Teens want to exercise their decision-making abilities in many areas, including their food choices, the physical activities they participate in, and when they go to bed.

Teens who consume sugary drinks and unhealthy snacks will have poor energy levels. The same thing will happen if they don’t exercise regularly.

Research shows that sedentary behavior can lead to anxiety, depression, poor mental capacity, loss of concentration, and even a decline in memory. Being sleep-deprived – which most teens are – doesn’t help the situation!

Considering the factors above, you can see why your teen might lack enthusiasm or seem listless. Proper diet, exercise, and sleep are essential elements for students who are motivated to give their best.

To help your teens lead a healthy lifestyle, you can try organizing family outings that involve hiking or biking. Even going for a walk as a family once or twice a week is a good start.

You can also plan healthy dinners. Remove junk food from your home and keep healthy snacks on hand.

And it’s vital that you lead by example in taking care of your own physical health!

Reason #3: Your teen feels like he or she is being micromanaged

micromanaged teen

Nobody likes to be micromanaged.

Statistics show that 59% of adults have experienced being micromanaged at some point in their working life. Of those who reported working for a micromanager, 68% said it had decreased their morale, and 55% claimed it had hurt their productivity.

Your teens aren’t your employees, but you may be treating them like they are.

Teens crave independence and being trusted to make their own decisions.

So if you talk down to your teens, it can result in rebellious behavior. They may start to act out and defy your instructions.

Be mindful not to control every aspect of your teenagers’ lives. If safety isn’t an issue, allow them to make their own choices as far as possible. Some relevant areas would be clothes, food, choice of friends, and when they do their homework.

The more control you exert, the more likely they’ll be unmotivated teenagers.

Instead, include your teens in the decision-making process as much as possible. This would be applicable when it comes to establishing rules and boundaries.

By doing this, your teenagers will be more likely to comply with those rules. This means that you won’t be forced to micromanage them, so it’s a win-win situation!

Reason #4: Your teen doesn’t see the purpose of what he or she is being asked to do

How often have you asked your teens to complete some chores or to stop using their phone so much?

And how often have your teens ignored your requests?

Teenagers won’t want to do these things if they don’t understand or agree with the reasons you give them.

You may think you’re dealing with unmotivated teenagers. But maybe they just don’t see why they need to do the chores now instead of later, or why they should stop using their phone when they’ve already completed their homework.

Focus on the intrinsic value of what you’re asking your teens to do, e.g. contributing to the family, becoming a more disciplined person, developing traits like commitment and perseverance.

Of course, it’s important that you periodically talk to your teens about what values matter to them. It’s also important that you appreciate your teens sincerely when they fulfill their responsibilities.

When your teens focus on the intrinsic value of what they’re doing – not just on the practical benefits they’ll receive – they’ll develop a sense of purpose. They’ll also find the inner motivation to do the things that matter.

Reason #5: Your teen doesn’t know how to prioritize

messy roomThe concept of organization doesn’t just apply to items your teens own. It also refers to how your teens prioritize their tasks.

Prioritizing allows your teens to sort through everything on their agenda and decide how best to complete those tasks.

Teens who haven’t learned how to prioritize often feel like they don’t know where to start. They end up getting distracted instead, which causes them to seem unmotivated.

If your teens know how to create lists and keep track of events and deadlines, they’ll be less stressed. They’ll procrastinate less, and they’ll stay on top of their tasks.

According to research, people who finish their most difficult tasks first are more productive than people who start with their easy tasks.

Reason #6: Your teen feels forced into doing things

No one likes to feel pressured into doing things they don’t want to do – teenagers especially.

So don’t spend too much time trying to force your teen to behave in a certain way, or you’ll both end up feeling frustrated.

Many parents use rewards to motivate their teens to perform certain tasks. But if you use this approach frequently, your teens will become outcome-oriented instead of process-oriented.

They’ll start to focus on the benefits they’ll receive if they perform the task, rather than focusing on the intrinsic value of the task. This will result in long-term negative consequences.

What’s more, your teenagers are likely to become more unmotivated over time.

So what should you do instead?

Try having a problem-solving conversation with your teens. Understanding their perspective will help you learn what support they need. You’ll also learn how you can be a better parent to them.

Make sure to use active listening techniques when speaking with your teenagers, e.g. maintaining eye contact, paying attention to body language, asking clarifying questions. Your teens will be more willing to share how they feel if they know you’re really listening to them.

Reason #7: Your teen has a learning disability

unhappy teen

Learning disabilities can hinder a teen’s ability to comprehend or retain information.

Simple equations may be challenging to remember, or basic grammar rules may cause confusion.

Here are a few common learning disabilities:

  • Dyslexia. This is a learning disorder in which people find it hard to read. This is because of problems identifying sounds of speech and how they relate to letters.
  • Dyscalculia. This is a learning disorder that causes people to have trouble learning math. These difficulties can include problems doing both basic and abstract math.
  • Dysgraphia. This neurological condition makes it difficult for people to turn their thoughts into written words. This can also affect handwriting and writing speed.

A related condition is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This is a neurodevelopmental disorder that leads to poor planning and time management, impulsiveness, a lack of concentration, disorganization, etc.

Reason #8: Your teen doesn’t have a mentor or coach

A mentor or coach is the little-known factor that enables teenagers to become successful and happy.

It’s hard for parents to mentor their teens. This is because teens often interpret parental advice as nagging or lecturing.

Having a mentor benefits teenagers as they navigate their educational and life journeys. Research even shows that teenagers with mentors experience higher levels of life satisfaction.

Finding someone to fill this role can be challenging because it’s rare to have a family friend or relative who can serve as a mentor. Few adults can fully understand your teen’s challenges and guide your teen effectively.

This is where a more formal arrangement – like engaging a coach – can help.

Professionals who can help your unmotivated teen

Therapy sessionIf your teenager lacks motivation or faces other related challenges, you might be considering engaging a professional to help him or her.

Professional support comes in many forms, each serving a different purpose.

Here are the professionals who may be able to help your teen, depending on what issues your teen is dealing with:

1. Therapist or counselor

Main objective: To help teens work through trauma or emotional distress.

A therapist or counselor can help teens work through emotions related to trauma, physical abuse, or other situations causing ongoing emotional distress.

2. Psychologist or psychiatrist

Main objective: To treat teens who have mental disorders and mental illnesses.

A psychologist can help teens who have emotional problems and provide treatment for mental health-related issues. This often involves some kind of behavioral therapy like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who treats mental illnesses. Psychiatrists frequently prescribe medications that they think may help the patient’s condition.

3. Tutor

Main objective: To help focused and driven teens improve in specific academic areas.

Engaging a tutor is a good option for teens who are already motivated and focused, but who just need some additional assistance in a specific subject.

4. Coach

Main objective: To equip teens with the mindset and tools needed to become motivated, focused, confident, resilient, and responsible.

Engaging a coach is a solution that many parents haven’t considered.

Coaches specialize in guiding teens who are going through a difficult time, who have a learning disability, who lack motivation, or who are struggling to overcome various challenges.

Coaches help teens become more resilient, understand the importance of education, overcome a negative mindset, develop planning and organizational skills, etc.

So if your teens don’t have a strong sense of purpose, give up easily, frequently get distracted, or lack self-confidence and a sense of responsibility – then connecting them with a coach will benefit them tremendously.

A coach might be just what your teen needs!

To learn more about how your teen might benefit from coaching, read this article next. Or you can also click the link in the box below…

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Coaching for Teens: Can It Help My Teen to Become Motivated?

Filed Under: Education, Learning, Motivation, Parenting, Popular, Success, Teens Tagged With: Popular

15 Study Strategies to Maximize Students’ Learning

Updated on May 11, 2023 By Daniel Wong 6 Comments

Study StrategiesAre you frustrated with your academic results despite spending a lot of time studying?

The right study strategies can turn your frustration into success.

When you’ve learned to study effectively, it will boost your motivation to study. Your progress in school will make you feel good about the time you spend understanding the material.

This can result in a lifelong passion for learning, which will serve you well long after you graduate.

Tailoring the way you study to your specific needs and abilities is essential to achieving your goals. By exploring various study methods, you can discover ways to save time, energy, and effort – and get better grades too.

Let’s talk about the 15 strategies that will enable you to make the most of your study time.

(First, make sure to download your free quick action guide below to improve your focus and reduce procrastination!)

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1. Use a variety of learning techniques and approaches

Do you use the same approach every time you study?

If so, try this instead: Diversify your learning techniques to engage with the topics in different ways.

The goal is to engage various parts of the brain. You can try a number of techniques, such as:

  • Reviewing your class notes
  • Reading and summarizing the keys points from the textbook
  • Watching lectures and videos online (for example on Khan Academy)
  • Creating a mind map
  • Discussing the material in a study group
  • Doing practice questions from the textbook

Each time you revisit a topic, use a different approach to make your study time more fruitful. Over time, you’ll realize that your understanding of the topic is more well-rounded because of the variety of learning methods you’ve used.

2. Apply the strategy of interleaving

Interleaving is the act of “mixing” the subjects you learn during your study sessions. So instead of focusing on one subject during a long study session, switch between a few.

For example, you could spend 30 minutes practicing math problems, then you could take a short break. You could then review your biology notes for 30 minutes, followed by another short break. Finally, you could spend 30 minutes reading a chapter from the chemistry textbook. After one more break, you could then circle back to math.

According to the Academic Affairs Department of the University of Arizona, interleaving can improve categorization and problem-solving skills.

Cognitive psychologists believe it can enhance the brain’s ability to distinguish between concepts and strengthen memory associations too.

3. Review information regularly to avoid cramming

All nighter studying

How many times have you pulled an all-nighter before an exam?

It’s a fact that cramming leads to short-term improvements, while spaced practice leads to long-term understanding.

Instead of cramming, try a more proactive approach—a spaced repetition system. Plan a timeline for these reviews. This strategy is used successfully by straight-A students!

For example, you could review your notes one week after you learn the topic. Then schedule a second review of the material for two weeks after that, then schedule a third review for one month after the second review.

Periodically reviewing new information in this manner helps you to transfer the information from short- to long-term memory. This makes it easier to retrieve come exam time.

4. Use acronyms to study smart

Studies show that mnemonic acronyms can enhance learning and exam performance.

The easiest way to do this is to create a phrase or acronym that represents the information you’re trying to memorize. Here’s an example of a mnemonic acronym:

If you’re taking a math class and you’re having difficulty remembering the order of operations, try using the phrase, “Please excuse my dear aunt Sally.” This phrase is an easy way to remember PEMDAS, which stands for parentheses, exponents, multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction.

Another example is this acronym to remember the Great Lakes: HOMES. It stands for Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and Superior.

It may take some time for you to think of a suitable mnemonic acronym to memorize a specific list, sequence, equation, etc. But it’s worth the time!

5. Test yourself regularly

Have you ever wondered what the secret is to getting good grades?

Self-testing is one strategy that helps. As the research shows, students who test themselves frequently perform better in school.

Rather than passively reading through your notes, test yourself on the key points to see if you’ve learned the information well. Do quizzes and tests on your own, and ask your teachers if they can give you exams from prior years to do as practice.

You can also look online for additional tests on the material you want to master.

6. Link what you’re learning with prior knowledge you possess

Reading aloud - studying strategies

We integrate new information faster by building upon the knowledge or concepts we’ve already learned.

Making connections between prior knowledge and new information has proven to aid learning.

So the next time you’re studying a new topic or concept, try to think of prior knowledge you can connect with it.

For example, if you’re learning about the human body, you can think of cells functioning like “factories,” blood vessels as “highways,” DNA as a “blueprint,” and the immune system as a “police force.”

This approach will take some time and effort, but using your creativity in this way will make studying more fun and effective.

7. Read key information aloud

When your studying involves reading, it’s more effective if you do it out loud.

As you do this, not only are you reading the information on the page, but you’re also speaking and hearing it.

Of course, when you have dozens of pages to read, it won’t always be possible to read everything out loud. In such instances, make sure to read aloud key information, definitions, and concepts you want to memorize.

University of Waterloo researchers found that reading something aloud improves your memory.

It might feel awkward at first since you’re probably more accustomed to reading silently. But I encourage you to give it a go and see for yourself that this technique of reading aloud works!

8. Make summary notes of each textbook chapter

Making summary notes is an effective study method.

As you move through the topics in your textbook, create summary notes at the end of each chapter. Write down any areas that you have questions about.

It’s still a good idea to read through the entire textbook chapter occasionally, but the summary notes will enable you to understand the material more deeply.

In fact, the process of making summary notes is what will benefit you the most as a learner.

9. Write down the questions or doubts you have

Prioritizing tasks

When studying, you’re sure to come across some concepts you have questions or doubts about.

Spend time trying to understand the material on your own. But if you’re still stuck after 15 to 20 minutes, write down your questions and move on.

It’s important to write down your questions, so you don’t forget to ask for clarification from your teacher as soon as you can.

Writing the questions down and knowing you’ll get help with them later will free up your mind to focus on studying.

10. Give another person an overview of the concept

Explaining a complex topic to someone else is an excellent technique for mastering it.

Your understanding of the topic will improve as you explain the concept to another person. You can do this with your parents, a sibling, or a friend.

After you explain the topic, ask the other person if there are any areas you didn’t explain clearly.

Try to explain the concept as if you’re talking to someone who has no prior knowledge of the concept. This way, you’ll cover all the key points while ensuring that you understand the concept well.

11. Make a list of all the learning resources available to you

Studying with multiple resources

If you take advantage of all the learning resources available to you, your test and exam preparations will be far more thorough.

Start by making a list of the learning resources for each subject.

Here are some examples of learning resources:

  • Textbook
  • Class notes
  • Practice questions
  • Online quizzes
  • Graded assignments

When preparing for an exam, go through all these resources for the various topics you need to cover.

Most students who don’t make a list of the available resources will often forget about one or two resources. This can significantly impact how prepared you are for the exam.

12. Review new concepts you learned earlier in the day

Review and consolidate all the new information you learned earlier in the day during your classes. This will make it easier for you to remember the information in the long run.

Doing this review will also ensure that you understand the material.

The forgetting curve demonstrates the importance of reviewing new information soon after you learn it.

Three days after you learn something for the first time, you only retain about 60% of the information. However, when you review the material soon after, you can retain up to 90% of the information.

13. Decide on a date when you’ll start studying for a test or exam

This is an effective study method because it will help you to avoid procrastinating.

When you have a specific start date in mind, you won’t keep telling yourself that you’ll start studying for the exam “soon,” while continually putting it off.

Instead, you would have already made a commitment to yourself about when you’ll get to work.

Getting started is often the hardest part, and a plan will help you overcome this hurdle.

14. Write down the key tasks you plan to complete every day

Studying in the morningYou can make the most of your time by prioritizing your most important tasks or those with the most urgent deadlines.

Mark Twain once said, “Eat a live frog first thing in the morning and nothing worse will happen to you the rest of the day.”

This quote suggests that you kick-start your day with the most challenging task. That way, everything else you have to do will seem easy in comparison.

Before you start work for the day, take a minute to check if you have any exams or tests coming up. Also, review what homework you have to do.

After you’ve done this, write down three to five important tasks you want to complete that day.

For example, you might write down:

  • Do math homework, questions 1 to 6
  • Read biology textbook chapter 8
  • Make flashcards for Spanish vocabulary quiz

Research suggests that most people reach peak energy levels soon after they wake up. This makes mornings an excellent time to study.

During the school week, you can use what time you have available to study because you’ll probably be in class in the mornings.

But avoid procrastinating during the mornings on weekends. If you put important tasks off until later, you’ll need more energy and motivation to finish the work.

15. Create a productive studying environment

Your environment is more important than you might think when it comes to maximizing your study time.

Learning environments play an important role in student success. Seating, light, noise, and even color can influence your ability to learn.

Science backs this up. A positive learning environment can motivate and engage students. Conversely, students in environments that aren’t conducive to studying – such as cluttered spaces – find it much harder to stay on task.

Here are some factors to keep in mind when creating a productive study environment:

  • Comfortable seating
  • Bright, natural lighting (which can enhance student performance by 25%)
  • Room color
  • Music (for example, listening to classical music can significantly improve working memory)
  • Clutter-free space

Conclusion

In this article, you’ve learned 15 study strategies that have been proven to work.

Try out the strategies one at a time, and I’m confident that you’ll make excellent progress!

Now that you know these effective study strategies, the only missing piece is a step-by-step system to enable you to prepare for exams as effectively as possible.

So check out this comprehensive course I’ve created called The Perfect Study Plan. It comes with a 30-day 100% money-back guarantee, so give it a try risk-free!

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