essay study habits

27 Good Study Habits of Straight-A Students

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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Study habits refer to the consistent practice and approach to study, on a regular basis, to enhance academic performance.

The good thing about a habit is that once you do it on a regular basis, it becomes easy. So, your job is to get into this habit early. Once you’re into the habit, university becomes easy (well, easier ).

Good study habits that I recommend include getting into the routine of heading to the library (or a similar study space) to study without distractions, chunking your studies by subject, and using spaced repetition for things that require rote memorization .

I also recommend studying with friends – such as by testing one another – whenever possible.

The integration of efficient study habits enhances academic performance and motivation to study . By developing effective study strategies adjusted to your personal learning style, you improve concentration and retention of information – and concentration, more than time spent studying, is found to be a key factor for success (Nonis & Hudson, 2010).

Good Study Habits

1. Time Management Time management refers to being able to efficiently allocate your time so you don’t run out of time, and so you have enough time to allocate to all important tasks. As a basis, you could initiate a dedicated study schedule, specifying the time slots for each subject. For instance, you might want to allot your mornings for theory-heavy subjects like Anatomy, and save the afternoons for practice-oriented subjects like Clinical Skills. Don’t forget to also block time for regular study breaks and social events. This is crucial to prevent burnout and maintain longevity – university is a marathon, not a sprint.

Read Also: 7 Things to do in your First Week of University

2. Using Active Reading Strategies This is the process of engaging with the material by asking questions and drawing connections. Instead of passively reading your texts, you can participate more actively by summarizing the information in your own words, teaching it to someone else, quizzing yourself, or creating visual aids like diagrams and mind maps. As Issa et al. (2012) found, reading relevant information daily is an effective study habit for improving grades.

3. Setting Realistic Goals This strategy involves laying out achievable objectives for each study session or topic. Setting goals not only keeps you focused, but also helps gauge your progress. For example, instead of aiming to read an entire biology textbook in two days, you might target mastering one chapter per day. I recommend setting both short-term study goals and long-term study goals using the SMART Goals method .

4. Prioritization Successful students often prioritize tasks based on their deadlines and degree of importance. You might follow the Eisenhower Box method: divide your tasks into four categories, namely, important and urgent, important but not urgent, not important but urgent, and not important and not urgent. For instance, an upcoming exam translates into an important and urgent task, hence it would be first on your list.

5. Spaced Repetition This strategy involves studying information over incremental intervals instead of cramming it in one sitting. You might review your notes on the day you learn something, then again in a couple of days, then after a week, and so forth. There are even apps like the Anki flashcards app that have a built-in spaced repetition algorithm that can space how often ideas are presented to you.

6. Creating a Suitable Environment Each individual’s ideal study environment may differ based on personal preferences . Some people need complete silence, while others work better with some background noise. If you like silence, the quite section of a library is a good place to start – I recommend making it a habit to go to the library at your university as often as possible. Conversely, if you feel background noise helps you to concentrate, consider studying at a cafe. But the key is to ensure your environment is right for you. As Ogbodo (2010, p. 229) argues: “Where to study is as important as what to study and how to go about studying.”

7. Taking Breaks Integrating regular short breaks into your study pattern can boost your productivity and mental agility because it decreases distractions during focused study time. And this is important. As Walck-Shannon, Rowell and Frey (2021) found, “students reported being distracted about 20% of their study time, and distraction while studying negatively predicted exam performance.” So, let’s avoid that – by splitting our time between strong focus, then rest. Typically, the Pomodoro technique is a popular method for this, where you study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four such cycles, you take a longer break of 15-20 minutes. During your breaks, you can engage in some light activity such as stretching or walking to invigorate yourself.

8. Maintaining Physical Health Eating well, getting regular exercise, and ensuring enough sleep are often overlooked aspects of efficient studying. Research shows that a balanced diet, physical activity, and proper sleep improve cognitive functions , including memory and concentration. You may want to establish a regular sleep schedule, incorporate a balanced diet, and schedule regular exercise sessions each week into your routine.

9. Using Technology Wisely Technology offers a range of tools that can streamline your study process. For instance, you can use apps for time management (e.g., Rescue Time), note-taking (e.g., Evernote), or spaced repetition (e.g., Anki). While these apps can be beneficial, remember to keep checks on screens’ disruptive nature and the habit of digital distraction. As practice, try turning off your phone’s notifications when you study, or set ‘Do Not Disturb’ intervals.

10. Review and Revise Sessions Regular review of study materials aids in long-term retention of information. You can allocate specific time slots each week to revisit old notes, attempt self-test papers or engage in group discussions. For instance, you might dedicate your Sunday mornings to revising everything you’ve covered during the preceding week.

11. Active Writing Transcribing information demands active engagement, thereby reinforcing your understanding and memory of the subject. You might opt to rewrite complex concepts in your own words or diagrammatically represent intricate processes. For example, instead of merely reading about the human circulatory system, consider drawing it out with brief annotations.

12. Seeking Help When Needed Understanding when to seek help is an underrated study habit. If you find yourself struggling with a subject, don’t hesitate to approach your professors, peers, or study groups for clarification. You might also seek online resources such as academic forums or educational websites. Remember, it’s better to clarify doubts initially than to have misconceptions hamper your overall learning.

13. Mindfulness and Focus Mindfulness, or present-moment awareness, can help enhance your comprehension and retention during studying. You could practice mindfulness by removing distractions, concentrating on the task at hand, and making a conscious effort to absorb the material.

14. Integrating Study with Real-Life Scenarios Applying the theoretical knowledge learned during study sessions to real-life instances can facilitate a deeper understanding. You might relate basic principles of economics to household budgeting or chemistry to cooking. This practice can help convert abstract concepts into tangible examples.

15. Regular Self-Assessment Implementing regular exams or quizzes to assess your understanding and memory can be a direct way to monitor progress. You can either use ready-made quizzes available online or design a short assessment yourself. As you answer, mark out the areas you struggled with for further review. This method will help you know where you stand in your preparation and what areas need extra effort.

16. Employing Mnemonics This involves using techniques to retain and retrieve information. The method could be as simple as creating an acronym or conjuring up a relevant mental image. For example, in recalling the taxonomical rank in biology – Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species – you might use the well-known mnemonic phrase: “King Phillip Came Over For Good Soup.” Examples of additional mnemonic techniques include the method of loci and memory linking .

17. Incorporating Understandable Examples Since abstract concepts can be confusing, associating them with relateable analogies can help you grasp the idea. This technique depends heavily on your creativity and could be as simple as linking a literary theme to a popular movie plot. Ensuring your examples make sense to you is vital.

18. Varying Study Methods It is beneficial to avoid monotony and experiment with multiple learning techniques. This can include oscillating between solitary studying and group study sessions, or alternating between text-based learning and audio-visual aids. For instance, following a hefty reading session, you might want to watch a related documentary or podcast on the topic. Switching up strategies not only prevents burnout but also caters to different facets of your learning style.

19. Note-Taking Strategy Effective note-taking is a skill that helps in better understanding and remembrance of knowledge. You should decide a note-taking strategy which could be outlining, mind mapping, or the Cornell method, and stick to it. For example, you might use the Cornell Method, which divides the paper into notes, cues, and a summary section for enhancing retention and review.

20. Regularity and Consistency Consistency is the cornerstone of strong study habits. Establishing a regular routine that allocates specific periods for study each day leads to better academic performance. For instance, studying for two hours per day consistently is more effective than cramming for fourteen hours once a week.

21. Engage All Senses Engaging multiple senses aids in strengthening your memory of the subject matter. This could involve reading aloud, rewriting notes, creating visual aids, or even using software to convert text to speech. The goal is to consume the information through as many sensory channels as possible to maximize retention. For example, if you’re studying foreign vocabulary, you could listen to the pronunciation, read the definition, write the word several times, and visualize an image related to it.

22. Reflective Learning Reflective learning involves regularly taking a few moments to contemplate what you’ve learned. This process ensures you understand the main concepts and helps you evaluate how effectively the learning material has been understood. For instance, after reading a section on World History, take a moment to think about what questions have been answered and what new questions have arisen in your mind about the topic.

23. Preparing for the Next Class Reviewing the material that will be covered in the next class helps make the class more productive and understandable. By having prior knowledge of the topic, you can better participate in class discussions and raise insightful queries. For example, if tomorrow’s Physics class covers Electromagnetic Waves, you might want to read the corresponding chapter tonight.

24. Constructive Procrastination While complete avoidance of procrastination is the goal, sometimes it’s unavoidable. Constructive procrastination involves doing another task that also needs to be done when you feel like procrastinating. If you find yourself unable to study Civil Law, consider switching to another pending task, such as completing your Mathematics assignment. This way, you remain productive while giving in to the urge to procrastinate.

25. Visualization Techniques Visualization involves picturing the information in your mind, which can significantly improve memory and recall. For instance, when studying Anatomy, envisioning the body parts, systems, and processes can enhance your understanding. If you’d like to explore this strategy more, read my article on the visual peg-word system for memorization .

26. Listen to Music Without Lyrics Listening to music while studying is a controversial topic. Some people think it helps them to achieve a flow state, while most research suggests that “ media multitasking ” is a distraction whether we realize it or not (Xu, Wang, & Woods, 2019). Generally, I recommend that if you do like that background nose, try to listen to music without lyrics, like lo-fi playlists from YouTube, which act as background noise and could potentially prevent your mind from wandering.

27. Study with Friends Thalluri (2016) found that “study buddy support groups” significantly support studying. Friends can keep each other accountable and help motivate one another. And, according to social learning theory , working in groups helps us to reinforce knowledge. For example, if you’re talking about the course content with friends, you’ll hear their unique perspectives, which you can critically compare to your own, which augments, supports, positively alters, and strengthens your own perspectives.

Study habits act as the building blocks of your academic journey. Efficient study habits not only ensure better academic performance but also help in gaining lifelong skills like time management, goal-setting, and self-discipline. By adopting effective study habits, you modulate your academic journey to a more favorable and fruitful path.

If you want to dive deeper into getting good study habits, I’d recommend James Clear’s Atomic Habits book – it’s an amazing book for learning to get more productive and optimize your time as a student.

Issa, A.O., Aliyu, M.B., Akangbe, R.B., and Adedeji, A.F. (2012). Reading interest and habits of the federal polytechnic students. International Journal of Learning & Development, 2 (1): 470-486.

Nonis, S. A., & Hudson, G. I. (2010). Performance of college students: Impact of study time and study habits. Journal of education for Business , 85 (4), 229-238.

Ogbodo, R. O. (2010). Effective Study Habits in Educational Sector: Counselling Implications. Edo Journal of Counselling , 3 (2), 230-242.

Thalluri, J. (2016). Who benefits most from peer support group?–First year student success for Pathology students. Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences , 228 , 39-44.

Walck-Shannon, E. M., Rowell, S. F., & Frey, R. F. (2021). To what extent do study habits relate to performance?. CBE—Life Sciences Education , 20 (1). doi: https://doi.org/10.1187/cbe.20-05-0091

Xu, S., Wang, Z., & Woods, K. (2019). Multitasking and dual motivational systems: A dynamic longitudinal study. Human Communication Research , 45 (4), 371-394. doi: https://doi.org/10.1093/hcr/hqz009

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Essay on Good Study Habits

Students are often asked to write an essay on Good Study Habits in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Good Study Habits

Setting a study schedule.

Creating a study plan helps you manage time wisely. Choose a time of day when you can focus best, maybe after a snack or playtime. Stick to this schedule every day to make studying a normal part of your routine.

Quiet Study Space

Find a peaceful place at home where you can study without noise. Keep this area clean and organized with all your study materials, like books and pencils, so you won’t be distracted looking for things.

Taking Breaks

Studying for too long can make you tired. After every 30 minutes, take a short break. Walk around or stretch to feel fresh and ready to learn more.

Asking Questions

When you don’t understand something, ask a teacher, parent, or friend for help. It’s important to clear up confusion right away so you can keep learning without any doubts.

Reviewing Your Notes

250 words essay on good study habits.

To build good study habits, making a plan is key. Think of it like a timetable that tells you what to study and when. It’s important because it helps you use your time wisely. Try to study at the same times each day so your brain gets into a routine.

Creating a Perfect Study Spot

Your study area should be quiet, comfortable, and free from distractions. Keep your books and supplies in this spot so you’re ready to get to work. A good study space helps you focus and do your best.

Taking Notes

When you’re learning something new, write down the important points. Your notes can be short and simple. Later, you can read them again to remember what you learned. This makes studying for tests easier.

Asking for Help

If something is hard to understand, don’t be shy to ask for help. You can talk to your teacher, friends, or family. They can explain things in a different way that might make more sense to you.

Reviewing Often

Go over your notes a little bit every day. This is better than waiting until the day before a test. When you review often, the information stays fresh in your mind.

Rest and Health

Remember, good study habits are about being regular, organized, and taking care of yourself. Stick to these simple rules, and you’ll be able to learn better and remember more.

500 Words Essay on Good Study Habits

Understanding good study habits.

Good study habits are like secret tools that help you learn better and faster. Imagine your brain as a garden. Just like a garden needs the right care to grow, your brain needs good habits to learn new things. These habits can make studying less hard and more fun.

Planning Your Study Time

Creating a study space.

Your study space is like your personal learning zone. It should be quiet, tidy, and have everything you need, like pencils, paper, and your books. A good space helps you focus and keeps you from wasting time looking for things.

Setting Goals

Setting goals is like having a treasure map for your studies. You decide what you want to learn or how much you want to read each day. Small goals can lead to big wins, and when you reach your goal, it feels great!

When you don’t understand something, asking questions is a super power. It’s okay not to know everything. Asking helps you learn, and teachers are there to help you understand.

Going over what you’ve learned, again and again, is like practicing a sport. The more you review, the better you remember. You can use flashcards, read your notes, or teach someone else what you’ve learned.

Staying Organized

Keeping your notes, books, and schedule organized is like keeping your toys in order. When everything is in the right place, you can find what you need quickly and it makes studying easier.

Just like you need rest after playing, your brain needs breaks during study time. Short breaks help you stay fresh and pay attention. You can stretch, walk around, or just close your eyes for a few minutes.

Staying Healthy

Eating well, sleeping enough, and moving your body keep your brain sharp. Think of healthy habits as fuel for your brain. Just like a car needs gas to run, your brain needs good food and rest to work best.

Getting Help When Needed

Sometimes, even with good habits, studying can be tough. It’s smart to ask for help when you need it. This could be from a teacher, a family member, or a friend. Everyone needs help sometimes, and it’s a part of learning.

In conclusion, good study habits are key to doing well in school and learning new things. By planning your time, setting up a nice study space, writing goals, taking notes, and asking questions, you can become a super learner. Remember to review what you’ve learned, stay organized, take breaks, stay healthy, and get help when you need it. These habits will make studying easier and more successful for you.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

Happy studying!

Study Habits That Can Improve Grades and Performance

M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
B.A., History, Armstrong State University

It is never too late to develop great study habits . If you're starting a new school year, or you just want to improve your grades and school performance, take a look at this list of good habits and start making some changes in your routine. You'll find that it does not take that long to form a new habit .

Write Down Every Assignment

The most logical place to write down your assignments in a planner , but you might prefer to keep a to-do list in a simple notebook or in your smartphone notepad. It doesn't really matter what tool you use, but it is essential to your success that you write down every single assignment, due date, test date, and task.

Remember to Bring Your Homework to School

It sounds simple enough, but many F's come from students forgetting to bring a perfectly good paper to school. To avoid forgetting your homework, establish a strong homework routine with a special homework station where you work each night. Get in the habit of putting your homework where it belongs right after you finish it, whether this is in a special folder on your desk or in your backpack. Prepare every night before bed.

Communicate With Your Teacher

Every successful relationship is built upon clear communication. A student-teacher relationship is no different. Miscommunication is another one of those factors that can cause bad grades, despite good efforts on your part. At the end of the day, make sure you understand every assignment that's expected of you. Imagine getting a bad grade on a five-page paper because you didn't understand the difference between an expository essay and a personal essay .

Be sure to ask questions and find out what format you should use when you write a paper or what type of questions might appear on your history exam. The more questions you ask, the more prepared you'll be.

Organize With Color

Devise your own color-coding system to keep your assignments and your thoughts organized. Select a single color for each class (like science or history) and use that color for your folder, highlighters, sticky notes, and pens. Color-coding is also a tool to use when conducting research. For example, always keep several colors of sticky flags on hand when you're reading a book for school. Assign a specific color for every topic of interest. Place a flag on a page containing information that you will need to study or to cite.

Establish a Home Study Zone

Create a specified study place. After all, if you can’t concentrate, you certainly can’t expect to learn very well. Students are different: Some need a completely quiet room free from interruptions when they study, but others actually study better when listening to quiet music in the background or taking several breaks.

Find a place to study that fits your specific personality and learning style . Then stock your study space with school supplies that will help you avoid last-minute interruptions to go find needed materials.

Prepare Yourself for Test Days

You know that it's important to study for tests, but there are other things you should consider in addition to the actual material that the exam will cover. For example, you might show up for the test and find the room is freezing cold. For many students, this would cause enough of a distraction to interrupt concentration. That leads to bad choices and incorrect answers. Plan ahead for heat or cold by layering your clothing.

Or you might be the kind of test-taker who spends so much time on one essay question that you don't have enough time to finish the exam. Prevent this problem by bringing a watch and being mindful of time management.

Know Your Learning Style

Many students struggle in a subject without understanding why. Sometimes this is because they don't understand how to study in a way that matches their brain style. Auditory learners , for example, are those who learn best through hearing things. Visual learners , by contrast, retain more information when they use visual aids, and tactile learners benefit by doing hands-on projects.

Examine and evaluate your learning style and decide how you can improve your study habits by tapping into your personal strengths.

Take Fabulous Notes

There are a few tricks to taking fabulous notes that really help when it comes to studying. If you are a visual person, make as many doodles on your paper as you can—useful doodles, that is. As soon as you realize that one topic relates to another, comes before another, is the opposite of another, or has any kind of connection to another, draw a picture that makes sense to you. Sometimes the information will not sink in until and unless you see it in an image.

There are also certain code words to look for in a lecture that can indicate that your teacher is giving you the relevance or the context of an event. Learn to recognize keywords and phrases that your teacher deems important.

Conquer Procrastination

When you procrastinate, you're gambling that nothing will go wrong at the last minute—but in the real world, things do go wrong. Imagine it's the night before a final exam and you have a flat tire, an allergy attack, a lost book, or a family emergency that keeps you from studying. At some point, you will pay a big price for putting things off.

Battle procrastination by recognizing the feisty little voice that lives inside of you. It tells you that it would be more fun to play a game, eat, or watch TV when you know better. Don’t listen to that voice. Instead, conquer the task at hand without delay.

Take Care of Yourself

Some of your personal habits might be affecting your grades. Are you feeling tired, achy, or bored when it comes to homework time? You can change your grades by practicing a few healthy homework habits. Change the way you feel by taking better care of your mind and your body.

For example, between text messaging, playing video games, surfing the internet, and using social media, students are using their hand muscles in new ways, and they're growing increasingly susceptible to the hazards of repetitive stress injury. Find out how to avoid pain in your hands and neck by learning about ergonomics and changing the way you sit at your computer.

Great Solutions for 5 Bad Study Habits
Noise Distraction
Best Pandora Stations for Studying
Study Tips for Better Grades
Time Management Exercise
How to Focus on Studying
Adapt Your Studying Techniques to Your Learning Style
How to Create the Ideal Study Space
10 Reasons to Have a Study Partner
The Kinesthetic Learning Style: Traits and Study Strategies
Visual Learning Style: Traits and Study Strategies
How to Study for a Multiple Choice Exam
The Auditory Learning Style
How to Study the Night Before a Test
How to Make Any Small Space Productive for Studying
How to Study for an Open Book Test

Successful Study Habits for College Students Research Paper

To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
As a template for you assignment

Introduction

Argument for conducting research and explicit hypotheses, discussion of eight articles, interaction discussion of the results, limitations of the study, suggestions for future studies.

The amount of time that is spent in learning does not influence performance outcomes of learners. Learning about effective study method can be one of the best ways to achieve one’s objectives (Pelham & Blanton, 2012). It is advisable that one should learn to manage, organize and prioritize activities in order to improve on study habits. It is expected that students should dedicate particular time and place for studying. Learning styles are necessary for high-quality performance outcomes (Pelham & Blanton, 2012).

Individual student determines the method of learning, and the choice could be driven by intrapersonal and interpersonal factors (Credé & Kuncel, 2008). Some students prefer studying alone while others prefer working in groups. While both methods of learning are vital, it is critical for learners to participate in class work during lectures because this will reinforce the individual efforts (Credé & Kuncel, 2008).

Learning in a cool environment where noise is minimal promotes understanding in students. The process of learning is reinforced by successful study habits and other factors, such as availability of learning environment and the readiness of the learner.

Many institutions in many countries across the world focus on increasing performance outcomes. Equipping learners with necessary knowledge, which entails teaching them how to prepare themselves adequately and effective study methods are among the important roles instructors are entrusted with (Credé & Kuncel, 2008). Many students in colleges and other institutions of learning have encountered challenges with regard to studying, especially when tests are about to begin.

Some learners study without objectives, while others do it without noting down any main idea. As a result, they end up failing in their exams. Many researchers have argued that there exist theoretical and scientific proof that performance outcomes are influenced by repetitive multi-functions of capabilities and motivation, which are mediated by study habits (Credé & Kuncel, 2008). It is evident that a learner with ability who is not motivated might not perform as expected.

The scholars argue that students with who are highly motivated and with high potentials produce excellent results (Credé & Kuncel, 2008). Despite the fact that the environment and students’ ability are key determinants of academic results, there is a need for students to develop and utilize effective study habits. In this view, it is necessary to conduct research to find out whether there are effects of successful study habits on academic performance outcomes. The study focuses on justifying the following hypotheses:

Learning styles do not have a significant difference in determining study habits and influence on academic performance.
Outside activities do not have a major difference in determining study habits as an influence on academic performance

In a study conducted by Vermeulen and Schmidt (2008) to investigate the effects of learners’ involvement and effectiveness of instruction on academic outcomes, the researchers found that learning environment is crucial to increased academic outcomes. In addition, the study revealed that learners’ engagement in extra-curriculum activities influenced them positively.

The researchers contended that the environment in which students study and their participation in other activities are critical determinants of their success in career and employment (Vermeulen & Schmidt, 2008). They argued that other activities are important in the development of skills and leadership roles.

However, Nonis and Hudson (2010) oppose this study and argue that study habits are critical to moderating the relationship between study time and learners’ academic outcomes positively. In their analysis of business students, they indicated that study habits had positive effects on performance results (Nonis & Hudson, 2010). In another study that they conducted, the findings showed negative results.

Many students participate in different activities beside school, which have influence on academic outcomes Nonis & Hudson (2010). Scholars, such as Hunt (2005) have indicated that there is a positive relationship between extracurricular activities and students’ performance outcomes.

Despite the fact that many learners participate in extracurricular activities because they are provided with additional rewards, it is evident that other roles help them to promote self-esteem that results in increased performance outcomes (Hunt, 2005). Lau, Hsu, Acosta and Hsu (2014) conducted a research to investigate whether there is a relationship between activities outside the school that learners engage in and performance outcomes conducted.

The researchers concluded that having many roles was effective due to the benefits and costs associated with them. Some students demonstrated positive effects, while others did not show any effect (Lau et al., 2014). However, it is notable that some responsibilities do not have benefits, demoralizing learners.

Shiah, Huang, Chang, Chang and Yeh (2013) state that students who engage in other activities in order to evaluate their communication, leadership, imagination, and self- promotion skills, which are useful for employment benefit after they complete their studies. Creativity skills were acquired from music clubs and helped learners after school.

Moreover, they argued that participation in other activities besides school assist students in developing qualities that are consistent with academic values, increasing their outcomes (Shiah et al., 2013). However, it has been found that many students who use their time with friends doing nothing have been impacted negatively (Dumais, 2008). In addition, they develop cultures that do not conform to those of adults because they usually concentrate on gaining popularity rather than improving academic performance outcomes (Dumais, 2008).

In most cases, students who use their unstructured time watching television, movies, and playing with friends demonstrated negative academic results. This is the case, especially in subjects that show negative transfer of learning, such as maths (Dumais, 2008). In most cases, learners ignore their past poor performance and start procrastinating.

As a result, they perform poorly in academics. It is critical to underscore that many of them withdraw from colleges due to procrastination (Dumais, 2008). Sometimes, they begin to revise for tests a day before its period, and others read the same day they are doing the test, making them study throughout the night.

In a survey conducted by Pychyl, Morin, and Salmon (2001), results indicated that many of students start preparing eight days before the test period. It has been found that most learners prefer handling urgent matters and do not revise for examinations until their period is near (Pychyl et al., 2001).

The fact that they start preparing late does not mean others outperforme them. In fact, their performance was better than those who prepared in advance (Pychyl et al. 2001). However, according to Pychyl and colleagues (2001), although prior preparation is significant they argue that factors, such as a learning environment, the learning process, the learner, motivation, and socioeconomic are critical determinants of performance outcomes.

In a study conducted by Lovely (2012) to find out cohort and differences in gender involvement in extracurricular activities, she concluded that there were a few differences with regard to activities and scores. The score the researcher used was on a math test. The scholar revealed that the extracurricular activities were important in achieving maths and met college expectations (Lovely, 2012).

In addition, Benfer and Shanahan (2013) conducted a research on how to recognize different learning styles and create a strategy that supports skill development using millennial generation. The researchers explored law students’ characteristics, including their self-concept (Benfer & Shanahan, 2013). In this study, the scholars demonstrated that, if well supported and reinforced, millennial generation can produce excellent legal professionals who are competent.

The study used a survey method to collect data from first and second year psychology and sociology college students, whereby they were labelled with confidential numbers. A sample of 205 participants was selected from the population using convenient sampling. Questionnaires were administered by their teachers who requested them to participate voluntarily. In addition, the study focused on learning styles, instruments and techniques that were used.

Information in relation to activities outside the school, when they study, when they finish learning, and what time they preferred to learn in and/or outside class was inquired. With regard to ethical issues, data were collected with the consent of learners.

They were informed of the reasons for filling in the questionnaires and that their participation was voluntary. Confidentiality was observed, and no information was released to any individual. Moreover, no participant was coerced, and they were not rewarded because it was voluntary. The instructor kept the results for seven years.

Increased performance outcomes are dependent on various factors, but not successful study habits only. The study demonstrated that there are no effects of efficient study methods on education productivity.

However, Nonis and Hudson (2010) disputed this fact in one of their studies where they argued that study habits mediate between the amounts of time spent and academic outcomes. The study also found that outside school activities have a positive impact on educational results and career development, but do not have any adverse effect on study habits (Nonis & Hudson, 2010).

This study is in line with Benfer and Shanahan, (2013) who argued that instructors’ roles are essential in improving learning outcomes. Critical factors that researchers identified as having a lot of impacts are the learning environment, the learning process, the readiness of learners, socioeconomic status, and motivation.

Vermeulen and Schmidt (2008) support these findings and argue that the environment is crucial for increased education productivity. The socioeconomic factors influence the availability of learning resources, and how learners would be exposed in relation to the use of the modern methods of learning (Vermeulen & Schmidt, 2008).

Regarding the learning environment, one that is cool, free from noise and distractions, such insecurity is conducive for learning. Learners should be ready and willing to learn and should feel obliged to learn. It is also correct that students waste their time watching televisions, which affect their performance outcomes negatively, especially in mathematics. In addition, many students tend to procrastinate, leading to inadequate preparation for tests.

Lovely (2012) states that some learners withdraw from college in order to attend to more urgent matters. It is critical to point out that sometimes they find it difficult to catch up with others, leading to a decline in their performance outcomes. Some students do not report back to colleges, even after they completed attending to urgent matters (Lovely, 2012).

This is also the case in this study’s findings. The first and second hypotheses are confirmed by the fact that there is a positive relationship between outside activities and performance outcomes, and extra-curriculum activities have no impact on study habits. In fact, the researchers advocate extracurricular activities due to the fact that they are crucial in the development of values and leadership skills.

According to Hunt (2005), those who participate in extracurricular activities enhance communication and social skills. Arguably, those with leadership experience are considered in career opportunities. It is suggested by Benfer and Shanahan (2013) that the learners’ characteristics should be considered before teaching them.

Thus, instructors are advised to consider individual differences in learning before they start teaching. This would be done by preparing materials and using appropriate methods of teaching. Teaching aids that are suitable for learners with special needs should be developed.

The role played by instructors should be emphasized because they are involved in identifying and understanding students with individual differences (Benfer & Shanahan, 2013). In addition, they are entrusted with the responsibilities of equipping learners with the best study skills that are essential for improving their performance.

First, the study did not use a bigger sample population. Second, the study did not use a variety of data collection methods.

It is important to point out that this study should form the basis for further research, which should focus on improving the results.

The studies should utilize bigger sample population in order to get adequate information with regard to successful study habits.

They should use many data collection methods in order to compare the results and examine if there is the effect of study habits on academic performance outcomes.

Benfer, E. A., & Shanahan, C. F. (2013). Educating the Invincibles: Strategies for Teaching the Millennial Generation in Law School. Clinical L. Rev. , 20 , 1-267.

Credé, M., & Kuncel, N. R. (2008). Study habits, skills, and attitudes: The third pillar supporting collegiate academic performance. Perspectives on Psychological Science , 3 (6), 425-453.

Dumais, S. A. (2008). Cohort and gender differences in extracurricular participation: The relationship between activities, math achievement, and college expectations. Sociological Spectrum , 29 (1), 72-100.

Hunt, H. D. (2005). The effect of extracurricular activities in the educational process: influence on academic outcomes?. Sociological Spectrum , 25 (4), 417-445.

Lau, H. H., Hsu, H. Y., Acosta, S., & Hsu, T. L. (2014). Impact of participation in extra-curricular activities during college on graduate employability: an empirical study of graduates of Taiwanese business schools. Educational Studies , 40 (1), 26-47.

Lovely, S. (2012). Boomers and Millennials–Vive La Difference: How to Mesh Generational Styles in a Learning Community. Journal of Staff Development , 33 (5), 56-59.

Nonis, S. A., & Hudson, G. I. (2010). Performance of college students: Impact of study time and study habits. Journal of Education for Business , 85 (4), 229-238.

Pelham, B., & Blanton, H. (2012). Conducting research in psychology: Measuring the weight of smoke . Belmont, CA: Cengage Learning.

Pychyl, T. A., Morin, R. W., & Salmon, B. R. (2001). Procrastination and the planning fallacy: An examination of the study habits of university students. Journal of Social Behavior and Personality , 15 (5), 135-150.

Shiah, Y. J., Huang, Y., Chang, F., Chang, C. F., & Yeh, L. C. (2013). School-based extracurricular activities, personality, self-concept, and college career development skills in Chinese society. Educational Psychology , 33 (2), 135-154.

Vermeulen, L., & Schmidt, H. G. (2008). Learning environment, learning the process, academic outcomes and career success of university graduates. Studies in Higher Education , 33 (4), 431-451.

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Study Habits: How and Why to Practice Effective Studying

August 9, 2019

Whether in public or private school, most students encounter the same basic curriculum. Granted, the curriculum has changed over the years , but the fundamentals still apply. Math, language arts, history, geography, and sciences are core subjects. Some students will achieve advanced levels in these topics but all will need to develop effective study habits to achieve their best.

Schools cover core and niche subjects well but don’t always address how to study them. Let’s look at what good study habits are, and how to practice them.

Why are study habits important?

Good study habits help don’t just help in school; they help in professional settings and life in general. Practicing good habits regularly allows you to be your most productive and efficient. Successful students tend to become successful professionals, and this success is often built on well-established habits. The best study habits turn into good habits for any time.

Unfortunately, students do not generally learn study skills in school. With rare exceptions, there are few classes in either public or private schools focused on them. Students are expected to develop these skills on their own. All students develop habits, but many of these habits can be counterproductive. For example, countless parents complain about their students doing homework while watching television. That is a study habit, just not a good one.

Developing good study habits early usually leads to retaining and using these habits throughout life. Middle school and college chemistry students are at different levels, but both can use the same habits to learn the material. A CEO and a high school civics students have different needs, but both need to be organized and focused to reach their goals.

What are the Best Study Habits?

The best study habits include:

Organization
Time management
Developing a personal learning style
Clear note-taking
Studying efficiently
Working effectively with teachers tutors

Success in every part of life requires good organization . Getting and staying organized allows students and adults alike to accomplish tasks efficiently. It’s more than having a tidy desk; it involves tasks like managing multiple work spaces at school, effective record keeping, and clear labeling.

Time Management is also an excellent habit for both students and professionals. It minimizes stress, errors, and time waste. Time management begins with tools as simple as a calendar or egg timer. Practicing macro (weeks, months) and micro (days, hours, tasks, projects) time management helps students complete tests within the time limit, and project managers track progress on year-long projects.

Developing a personal learning style is important because everyone learns differently. Some students do best with visual examples. Others prefer dialogue with teachers. Some learn everything they need from reading books straight through. Flashcards, mnemonics, and memory tricks can all help different kinds of learners. Find what works for you, and build your study plan around that.

C lear note-taking is essential. Remember, you’re taking notes so you can reference them while you study later. Make sure you can easily read and understand them. There are different ways to do this , so play around.

Studying efficiently means you can retain, repeat, apply, and synthesize information. Studying efficiently tends to happen when your other good habits are in play. Are you organized and managing your time well? Do you know how you best learn and retain information? Are your notes clear and easy for you to understand?

Finally, working effectively with teachers and tutors is key to getting the most out of your education. Trust your educators, and trust the process.

How Can I Improve My Study Habits?

It’s never too late to start improving your habits. It takes a conscious effort, self-discipline, and hard work. Most people, adults included, have a difficult time doing this on their own. It’s hard to be constructive and self-critical, and it’s easy to be complacent. Regardless, every person reaches a point in life where it is too challenging to keep track of accomplish your goals without a plan for doing so. We need to keep changing and growing, and good habits help this.

Start by getting familiar with the habits discussed here. Ask yourself: am I already practicing these? How can I be more effective? Take inventory of your answers. Then, think of simple steps and begin practicing them, one at a time. For example, if you need to work on organization, buy or repurpose folders to organize your notes and resources by subject. If you need to improve time management, get a weekly planner that works for you and fill it out at the start of every week. Regular practice is key.

Parents can help too. Parents should collaborate with students, learning about effective study habits, and working to integrate them into daily life. Practicing these habits together helps parents stay involved and informed about student needs and goals. One simple strategy is to have weekly planning sessions, where students and parents discuss their goals, schedule, and what they’re anticipating for the week.

Finally, consider seeing a tutor. Tutors specialize in maximizing study efficiency, and focus on an individual student’s learning needs to develop a personalized study plan. A fundamental part of any good plan comes down to practicing good habits.

To learn more, visit our academic tutoring page.

Practice Makes Permanent

Developing and practicing these habits makes them permanent. The school year often gets interrupted, through scheduled breaks, through the summer, and through snow days. Sometimes, extenuating circumstances shut schools down and require students to study from home. In these gaps, it’s easy for students to fall off their studies and lose the knowledge they gained in school. However, if you practice these skills regularly, it’s much easier to stay on top of your studies, even when school isn’t in session.

These steps will help you develop positive study habits. Think of it as investing in yourself. Each skill takes time to learn but ultimately saves time and energy in the long run. That is what it’s all about: building an efficient and effective process that allows you to accomplish all of your work while opening up time for the fun things in life.

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Home / Essay Samples / Education / Study / Building Better Habits: A Guide to Improving Study Skills

Building Better Habits: A Guide to Improving Study Skills

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Topic: Life Lesson , Student , Study

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