Start-Of-The-School-Year Study Guide

Written by Joel Counihan, Ben Tippett, Olivia Fullerton, and Katelynn Jackson

When it comes to studying or doing homework, there are so many tips and tricks to learn effectively. The first thing to do is to find a quiet space where you can focus without distractions. Places like libraries and empty classrooms are great places to go with limited disruptions. After finding your space, you’ll want to set up your area and make a list of things you need to get done. This will help you know what to prioritize. 

Taking breaks during an intense study session greatly reduces fatigue and burnout. Keeping your mind fresh, improving your ability to take in information and work effectively, 20 minutes on and 5 minutes off is an ideal strategy. 

With tests, don’t cram everything into the night before. This is not only a terrible way to study, but it will also lead to less sleep, affecting your mental health and thus increasing your chances of making mistakes that you wouldn’t otherwise make. 

Prioritizing harder work with your homework also helps, otherwise, you’ll leave it to the last minute, and you might not be able to do a good job at it then. If you’re having a hard time motivating yourself, rewarding yourself with snacks, easier homework or fun activities can be a good option. After a few days of discipline, you’ll learn to work effectively, cutting down on time spent on homework while improving grades.