BEST and WORST study methods ALL students MUST know…

Summary

In this video, the creator shares an honest review of popular and controversial study techniques, ranking them based on personal experience. They critique the Pomodoro method as ineffective for advanced study, highlight the benefits of immersion for language learning through Lingoda, and emphasize the power of flashcards for active recall. Past papers are hailed as an essential tool for exam success, while studying with music is deemed useful if paired with other techniques. The video also debunks reading notes as a productive study method, urging viewers to adopt more efficient strategies for academic success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Pomodoro method is ineffective for students dealing with more complex subjects, as the 25-minute study period is too short for focused deep work.
• 😀 The Pomodoro method is only beneficial when paired with other study techniques, like using past papers during the study periods.
• 😀 Language immersion is a highly effective method for learning a language, but it can be hard to implement without support, such as from platforms like Lingoda.
• 😀 Flashcards are an underrated but effective study method, particularly when used for active recall, retrieval practice, and spaced repetition.
• 😀 Past papers are an extremely valuable study tool, providing realistic exam practice and improving time management and deduction skills.
• 😀 Studying with music can be helpful if the music is instrumental, such as classical music, which helps maintain focus without distractions from lyrics.
• 😀 Rereading notes is one of the least effective study techniques, as it provides the illusion of productivity but doesn’t engage active recall or improve understanding.
• 😀 Research shows that deep work, lasting 60-90 minutes, is far more effective for students than frequent short intervals like the Pomodoro method.
• 😀 Flashcards are most effective when used on a mobile app, allowing students to study constantly throughout the day, even during brief moments like on the way to school.
• 😀 Effective studying relies on combining methods, such as pairing Pomodoro with past papers or flashcards to create a more engaging and productive study session.

Q & A

What is the Pomodoro method, and why does the speaker consider it ineffective for older students?

The Pomodoro method involves studying for 25 minutes and taking a 5-minute break. The speaker finds it ineffective for older students because tasks like math questions may take longer than 25 minutes, and frequent breaks interrupt focus. Research suggests that 60-90 minutes of uninterrupted study is more efficient.

What is the speaker's opinion about the Pomodoro method when paired with other study techniques?

The speaker acknowledges that the Pomodoro method can be more effective when paired with other techniques, like doing past papers. However, they emphasize that Pomodoro itself is not a study technique but a time management tool.

How does immersion play a role in language learning according to the speaker?

Immersion is crucial for language learning because it involves actively using and engaging with the language through speaking, listening, and exposure. The speaker notes that while immersion is highly effective, it can be difficult to apply in real life without external help, such as language courses.

What role does Lingoda play in language learning, and how does it differ from self-study?

Lingoda offers online, instructor-led language courses that provide immersion by forcing students to speak and engage actively with the language. The speaker highlights that it’s different from self-study because it provides structured lessons and accountability.

Why does the speaker believe flashcards are an underrated study technique?

Flashcards are an effective study tool because they promote active recall, retrieval practice, and spaced repetition. The speaker mentions using digital flashcards on their phone for easy access, which makes it convenient for studying anytime, anywhere.

What are the benefits of using past papers for exam preparation?

Past papers are an excellent way to prepare for exams because they simulate the real exam environment. They help with active recall, familiarizing students with the question format and timing, and improving test-taking skills. The speaker ranks past papers as an essential study method.

What is the speaker’s perspective on studying with music?

The speaker finds that listening to classical music without lyrics can help focus during study sessions. Lyrical music, however, can interfere with studying because it competes with the words being processed from textbooks. Classical music, on the other hand, helps maintain concentration.

Why does the speaker consider reading notes to be a poor study technique?

Reading notes is considered ineffective because it is a passive form of study. Research shows that it leads to poor retention, as it doesn’t actively engage the student in testing their knowledge or improving understanding. The speaker warns against relying solely on this method.

How does the speaker suggest improving study habits?

The speaker encourages students to adopt more effective study techniques such as past papers, flashcards, and immersion methods. They stress the importance of active recall and spaced repetition for long-term retention and suggest combining different techniques for optimal results.

What is the speaker's advice for students who are serious about improving their academic performance?

The speaker advises students to use more efficient study methods like active recall and retrieval practice, avoid passive techniques like reading notes, and consider enrolling in programs like Lingoda for language learning. They also recommend using tools like flashcards and past papers to boost performance.