The Science of Studying

December 9, 2015 | Posted on December 9, 2015July 20, 2018 Trevor BrownPosted in Total Well-Being

In the life of a college student, surviving finals week never seems to get easier. This year, put science on your side by using these proven study tips. It might be a bit more work but, in the end your GPA will thank you!

1. Space Out Study Sessions – Try studying small amounts for each subject every day. Cramming for hours actually isn’t the best idea. The American Psychological Association says research has shown breaks in-between studying improves long-term memory of information.

2. Test your Knowledge – Take a mock test, even if you‘re sure you know it. “Decades of research has shown that making yourself recall information helps strengthen your long-term learning,” says Henry Roediger, PhD, a psychologist at Washington University.

3. “Interleaving” – Mix up the tasks and topics during a study session, says Los Angeles psychologist Robert Bjork, PhD. In his 2008 study, those who saw a mix of information were able to identify it significantly better.

Also, check out these FREE study Apps:

Evernote – Stay organized with checklists and notes

Quizlet – Create flashcards and matching games

Brainscape – Create SMART Flashcards

duolingo – Study foreign languages

Mindshift – Reduce stress and think positively

Source: http://www.apa.org

HealthyU™, powered by ACI Specialty Benefits, is a resource for students and faculty members of ACI’s wide range of student assistance program clients. The blog features everything from study tips and time management, to finding important items on a budget and the latest education-based apps and utilities. Want more college tips? Contact ACI Specialty Benefits at (800) 932-0034 or info@acispecialtybenefits.com.

Anna Goforth, Student Ambassador and College Blogger for ACI Specialty Benefits, is a Journalism and Public Relations student at Point Loma Nazarene University. Anna writes for ACI’s HealthyU™ blog while keeping up with college life. After moving from Alabama to California for college, Anna spent a semester abroad in London where she traveled throughout Europe.