Tier Ranking Study Techniques: What is the BEST Way to Revise?

Summary

In this insightful video, the speaker ranks various study techniques based on their effectiveness, drawing on evidence from cognitive science. Starting with the highly effective 'blurt' technique, the speaker discusses methods such as flashcards, past papers, and spaced repetition, emphasizing active recall and engagement. Less effective strategies like highlighting, rereading notes, and watching videos are critiqued for their low utility. The speaker also highlights the importance of making studying enjoyable and adaptable to personal learning styles, encouraging viewers to explore different techniques to find what works best for them. Overall, it's a blend of science and personal experience aimed at boosting academic success.

Takeaways

• 📚 Effective study techniques are crucial for managing overwhelming amounts of information in school or university.
• 🔍 Active recall, such as the 'blurt' technique, is one of the best study methods, helping identify gaps in knowledge.
• 🖍️ Highlighting notes is considered a low-utility technique that may waste time rather than aid learning.
• 📖 Flashcards are highly effective, particularly when combined with active recall and spaced repetition.
• 👩‍🏫 Teaching others can be beneficial, but it shouldn't be the sole reliance for mastering content.
• 📝 Past papers and practice tests are vital for understanding exam expectations and improving grades.
• ⏰ Spaced repetition is a powerful principle that can enhance long-term memory retention.
• 🎥 Watching educational videos can aid understanding but is not effective for long-term memory on its own.
• 🎶 Listening to music can enhance the enjoyment of studying but may hinder efficiency, especially with lyrics.
• 🗒️ Rereading notes or textbooks is largely ineffective; active engagement is key to better learning outcomes.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video discusses various study techniques and ranks them based on their effectiveness, aiming to help viewers choose the best methods for learning.

What study technique does the speaker favor the most?

The speaker's favorite technique is 'blurting,' which involves writing down everything you can remember about a topic without looking at your notes.

Why is highlighting considered a low utility study technique?

Highlighting is deemed low utility because multiple studies have shown that it does not significantly enhance learning or retention of information.

How are flashcards beneficial for studying?

Flashcards are beneficial because they promote active recall and can incorporate spaced repetition, making them effective for long-term retention.

What role does spaced repetition play in studying?

Spaced repetition helps reinforce knowledge by reviewing material at strategic intervals, countering the forgetting curve and enhancing long-term memory.

What is the Pomodoro technique?

The Pomodoro technique is a productivity method that involves studying for 25 minutes followed by a 5-minute break to maintain focus and motivation.

How does the speaker view the use of past papers in studying?

The speaker views past papers as highly effective, stating that they help students understand exam expectations and learn from mistakes.

What are the limitations of teaching others as a study method?

While teaching others can reveal gaps in knowledge, it may not effectively prepare students for exams if it doesn't align with the specific material being tested.

What does the speaker say about watching educational videos?

The speaker believes that while educational videos can aid understanding and inspire curiosity, they are not effective for retaining information long-term.

What does the speaker suggest about making notes?

Making notes can be helpful for attention and focus during lectures, but the effectiveness depends on how well the notes are crafted; poorly done notes can be a waste of time.