How to study hard for FINALS & EXAMS (get the BEST grades)

Summary

This video provides practical and effective study tips, focusing on how to balance studying with enjoying the festive season. It covers how to set up an ideal study space, the importance of creating a structured timetable, and the need for specific study goals. The video also emphasizes reviewing mistakes to maximize exam performance and experimenting with study techniques to find what works best for you. By following these strategies, you can efficiently prepare for exams while still making time for friends, family, and holiday fun.

Takeaways

• 😀 Designate a consistent study space to improve focus and productivity—avoid studying in places associated with rest, like your bed.
• 🎯 To avoid procrastination, create a detailed study timetable with specific tasks and times, especially if you're prone to distractions.
• 📝 Break down vague study goals (e.g., 'Math revision') into specific tasks (e.g., 'Practice algebra problems 1-10') for better clarity and effectiveness.
• 📅 Incorporate breaks and fun activities into your study schedule to maintain motivation and avoid burnout.
• 📖 Use the Perect Light System to focus on topics you're less confident in, rather than revisiting areas you already know well.
• 🔎 Review past exam papers and keep track of mistakes to avoid repeating them and to improve accuracy for future tests.
• 📊 Create a table or spreadsheet to record mistakes and scores for easy reference during final revision before exams.
• ⏱ Experiment with different study techniques, such as the Pomodoro Technique, to find what works best for you, whether it's short bursts or longer study sessions.
• 🎄 Don't forget to balance studying with holiday activities—planning ahead allows you to enjoy festive fun while staying on top of your studies.
• ⚡ Avoid studying in environments with distractions—ensure your study space is quiet and conducive to focus for longer periods of time.

Q & A

Why is it important to have a designated study space?

A designated study space helps your brain associate that space with focus and productivity. It also minimizes distractions and promotes better posture, making it easier to stay focused and productive for longer periods.

How can I ensure my study space is effective for long study sessions?

To make sure your study space is effective, ask yourself three key questions: 1) Can I maintain good posture comfortably for 90 minutes or more? 2) Is it quiet enough for studying? 3) Is it free from distractions? If the answer is yes to all, your space is likely optimal.

What role does planning play in exam preparation?

Planning your study time is crucial to staying organized and focused. Without a plan, you might waste time and get lost in unproductive activities. A well-structured timetable provides direction and helps you stay on track with both study and leisure activities.

How can procrastinators improve their study habits?

Procrastinators should break their day into specific time slots and avoid leaving gaps in their schedule. Ambiguous time slots encourage distractions. Having a detailed, hour-by-hour plan can help maintain focus and reduce procrastination.

Why should you be specific about what you plan to study?

Being specific about your study goals helps your brain focus on actionable tasks. Instead of vague goals like 'Math revision', specify exact topics like 'Circle theorems: Questions 10-16'. This helps you stay organized and ensures efficient study.

What is the Pareto method, and how can it help with revision?

The Pareto method, also known as the 80/20 rule, suggests focusing on the 20% of topics that will yield 80% of the results. In revision, this means prioritizing the areas where you’re weakest or have more room for improvement, ensuring more efficient use of your time.

How can I track and learn from my mistakes during revision?

Keep a log of mistakes from past papers and practice questions. By revisiting questions you got wrong and understanding why, you can avoid repeating them in the future. This process is proven to help reduce errors by up to 70% in exams.

What is the recommended study technique for long study sessions?

For long study sessions, a 50-minute study block followed by a 10-minute break is a good starting point. This provides enough time to immerse yourself in study without burning out. However, adapt the duration to what works best for your concentration and energy levels.

What should I include in my revision timetable to avoid burnout?

Incorporate both study and leisure activities into your timetable. Make sure to schedule breaks and fun activities to keep your motivation high. A balanced timetable helps prevent burnout and ensures you stay focused during study sessions.

Why is it ineffective to study for hours without breaks?

Studying for hours without breaks leads to mental fatigue and reduces concentration. Regular breaks help refresh your mind, making your study time more productive. The brain can only focus for so long, so it’s important to recharge periodically for optimal results.