OVERRATED study tips to ditch ASAP. (+ their alternatives to ACTUALLY get A's)

Summary

The video discusses common study tips that may not be as effective as people believe. Amy, who achieved the highest GPA in her district, shares alternative strategies that work better. She emphasizes the importance of studying before bed to help information 'marinate,' avoiding rigid study methods like the Pomodoro Technique, and focusing on progress rather than time. Amy also talks about using effective tools, like an iPad with a paper-like screen, and debunks passive learning strategies like rewriting notes. The video concludes with Amy sharing insights from her personal experience, including her journey applying to Harvard Business School.

Takeaways

• 😴 Studying before bed can be more effective as it allows information to 'marinate' in your brain overnight.
• 🕒 The Pomodoro method may not work for everyone, and it's better to take breaks after making progress rather than strictly on a timer.
• 🎨 Aesthetics in study tools can be distracting; focus on practicality and functionality.
• 📚 Active reading strategies like SQ3R can be more beneficial than passively rewriting notes.
• ✅ The 'one accomplishment rule' can help combat procrastination by focusing on completing small tasks.
• 💪 Confidence in performance comes from thorough preparation and treating tests like presentations.
• 📈 Personalize your study methods based on what works best for you, as learning is a personal process.
• 📱 Using an iPad with a screen protector that mimics paper can reduce muscle fatigue and improve precision for note-taking and drawing.
• 🌿 The importance of being honest with oneself about the level of preparation needed to feel confident.
• 📈 The speaker shares personal experiences and tips for college applications, including the process of applying to Harvard Business School.

Q & A

What is the main message of the video about study tips?

The main message is that not all popular study tips are effective for everyone, and it's important to find personalized strategies that work best for the individual.

Why does Amy recommend studying before bed instead of in the morning?

Amy suggests studying before bed because it allows the information to 'marinate' in the brain overnight, which can lead to better retention and memory formation while sleeping.

What is the scientific reasoning behind studying before bed being beneficial?

The scientific reasoning is that during sleep, the brain strengthens connections between neurons in the hippocampus, which helps convert information into long-term memory.

Why does Amy not use the Pomodoro method for studying?

Amy feels that the Pomodoro method is too restrictive and interrupts the 'flow state,' which is a period of high productivity and focus that can be disrupted by the method's strict timing.

What alternative does Amy propose to the Pomodoro method?

Amy proposes taking breaks 'after gains,' meaning one should take a break only after making concrete progress or achieving a specific study goal.

What does Amy think about using aesthetically pleasing study tools and why?

Amy believes that study tools should be practical and serve the purpose of organization and productivity, rather than focusing on aesthetics or trends.

What is the advantage of using a paper-like screen protector on an iPad for studying, according to Amy?

A paper-like screen protector reduces muscle fatigue, improves precision and control, and makes writing and drawing on the iPad more enjoyable, similar to using paper.

What is the SQ3R active reading strategy mentioned in the video?

The SQ3R strategy stands for Survey, Question, Read, Recite, and Recall. It's a method for active reading that involves getting an overview of the material, asking questions, reading, and then actively engaging with the information through reciting and recalling.

How does Amy suggest overcoming procrastination when studying?

Amy suggests following the 'one accomplishment rule,' which means focusing on completing the smallest part of a task to gain a sense of accomplishment and motivation to continue.

What is the best test preparation strategy that Amy recommends?

Amy recommends treating test preparation like a presentation, practicing under conditions that replicate the actual test environment, including time constraints and stress levels.

What personal update does Amy share about her application to Harvard Business School?

Amy shares that she has submitted her application to Harvard Business School's MBA program and is documenting her application process, including the challenges and successes, in a series of mini Vlogs.