The High Schooler’s Ultimate Guide to Studying

Emma Colaco, Reporter

According to a 2015 survey done by the New York University, “nearly half (49%) of all students reported feeling a great deal of stress on a daily basis and 31 percent reported feeling somewhat stressed” (James). The stresses that students face will continue to rise in the next couple of weeks as AP exams and Regents exams rapidly approach. 

For all high school students struggling to find the motivation to begin working or those in need of more study techniques, I offer a comprehensive list of scientifically proven study methods to maximize your productivity and memorization. 

 

Blurting 

Blurting is where you choose a specific topic to study and you write down everything that you remember on the topic.

Example: You need to study biology and the topic is cell compartmentalization. You would ‘blurt’ everything you know about the cell’s organelles and functions on a piece of paper. Afterwards, look back at your class-notes or textbook and find the knowledge gaps you have yet to memorize, and repeat! 

Active Recall 

Active recall is where you look over the information you wish to remember, and then put those notes away and actively recall the information.

Example: You have to remember all the US presidents and their political parties. You would review the first fifteen, and then put those notes away and see if you could name them. Write down the presidents you have trouble with and repeat the process until you can recall all the information you need to. 

The Pomodoro Method

The Pomodoro Method is a fan favorite among not only students, but anyone keen on completing their everyday tasks. The pomodoro method is where you set aside time slots for working and breaks. 

Example: You work for 25 minutes and afterwards allow yourself a 5 minute break (of whatever works for you). You continue this process until you’ve completed all your tasks. 

The Leitner System

The Leitner System is when you organize your flashcards into three boxes you strategically study, so that you are reviewing specific content you lack knowledge in. 

Example: You have two boxes. Your first box is where all your flashcards start at. If you find yourself struggling on a card, add it to the second box. Now take those flashcards in the second box and review them. If you struggle with any of those cards still, add them to the third box. Now the information is organized by the intensity of which you need to study, and you are able to work more efficiently. 

The Feynman Technique

The Feynman technique is where you treat your study material as lesson planning, acting as if you were teaching a young child about your desired subject. 

Example: You are studying chemical bonds and you would act as if you were teaching this to a younger relative. While explaining the types of bonding, you may find certain topics harder to explain. Identifying these gaps in your knowledge will help identify what you must continue to review.  

 

It’s easy to get stressed and lose sight of why you are studying. While you utilize these methods to help achieve your academic goals, it is vital to pay attention to your specific needs and take care of yourself during the upcoming exam season.