How to Study When You're Tired (from a Med Student)

Summary

Salim, a med student with over 7 years of university experience, shares his three-part 'Reawaken Method' to boost study productivity, even when you're tired. The method emphasizes energy management over time, realistic goal-setting, and maximizing downtime for study. Salim encourages setting deadlines, taking active breaks, and using brief moments to stay engaged. He also highlights the importance of effective lecture time, building study discipline, and maintaining a consistent sleep routine. Salim concludes by recommending the Brilliant platform for interactive learning and how AI tools can enhance study efficiency.

Takeaways

• 🧠 Maximize study sessions by focusing on energy levels instead of time, incorporating active rest to stay productive.
• ⏳ Use Parkinson’s Law: Set a deadline for when to stop studying rather than focusing on when to start.
• 🏋️‍♂️ Active rest before and after study sessions, like going to the gym or playing piano, helps recharge energy.
• 📝 Avoid overloading yourself with unrealistic study plans; prioritize tasks based on what’s truly urgent.
• ✅ Break large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks to avoid burnout—doing something small is better than nothing.
• 🚇 Maximize downtime, like commuting or at the gym, by studying on your phone to keep your mind engaged.
• 🎧 Avoid taking extensive notes during lectures. Instead, listen and understand during class to reduce post-lecture study time.
• ⏳ Build discipline by gradually increasing study time, starting with just 5 minutes when feeling tired.
• 📚 Studying in public spaces like libraries can increase productivity due to accountability and reduced distractions.
• 🛌 Consistent wake-up times help establish a natural sleep routine and improve overall energy levels.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Salim's video?

The main focus of Salim's video is to share strategies for maximizing study sessions even when feeling tired, so that students can have more time for other activities they care about.

What is the Reawaken Method?

The Reawaken Method is a set of strategies that Salim outlines to help students improve their study sessions and manage their energy and time more effectively.

What is Parkinson's Law and how does it apply to studying?

Parkinson's Law is the idea that work expands to fill the time available for its completion. In studying, Salim suggests setting a deadline for when to stop studying rather than when to start, to create a sense of urgency and improve productivity.

Why is active rest important before and after study sessions?

Active rest is important to recharge energy levels and prevent burnout. Salim recommends scheduling time for activities like going to the gym or playing the piano to refresh the mind and maintain focus during study sessions.

What is the significance of creating a realistic to-do list?

Creating a realistic to-do list helps in managing expectations and avoiding overcomplication. It allows students to prioritize tasks and understand the urgency of each task, which can lead to more efficient study sessions.

How can breaking tasks into smaller, achievable goals benefit students?

Breaking tasks into smaller goals can make them feel more manageable and less overwhelming. This approach helps maintain momentum and motivation, as completing smaller tasks can lead to a sense of accomplishment and progress.

Why is it beneficial to study during downtime, such as on the train or at the gym?

Studying during downtime keeps the mind engaged and prevents wasted time. It also helps to make use of otherwise unproductive moments and can contribute to a consistent study habit.

What is the 5-minute rule Salim mentions for studying when feeling tired?

The 5-minute rule is a technique where one commits to studying for at least five minutes when feeling mentally resistant or tired. This can help overcome the initial hurdle of starting to study and often leads to longer study sessions.

How can studying with a friend or in a public place like a library improve focus?

Studying with a friend or in a public place like a library provides a sense of accountability and a more focused environment. The presence of others working can motivate students to stay on task and resist distractions.

What role does sleep routine play in managing tiredness after school or university?

A consistent sleep routine is crucial for managing tiredness. Salim emphasizes the importance of waking up at the same time every day to regulate the body's internal clock and improve sleep quality.

What are the two common reasons Salim suggests for feeling tired all the time?

Salim suggests that a high-carb lunch and potential anemia are two common reasons for constant tiredness. Adjusting diet and getting a blood test to check for anemia can help manage this issue.