The first thing to understand is that there is no such thing as a true study “hack”. A hack implies a quick and effortless shortcut to study, but the reality is that there’s no substitute for hard work.

However, if by “hack” you mean effective methods and techniques that can be used in studying to improve your results, then yes, those do exist. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best evidence-based tools and strategies that researchers have proven to work.

The key to stronger memory

You may have learned different forms of retrieving information: recognition, recall, and relearning. Recognition happens when you identify information with the help of a cue, such as in a multiple-choice question. Recall allows you to retrieve information without any cues, like in a short-answer question. Relearning is when you can regain information you once learned but have since forgotten.

Most students rely on recognition while studying, often skimming through their notes and simply re-reading the information. The problem with this is that it does not force your brain to do any work. Your brain is like a muscle; it strengthens and grows with regular exercise.

The question is: how does a brain exercise?

Well, your brain consists of neurons, which connect like pieces of string tied together. Each memory, each thought, and each piece of information that you can think of is a specific pathway of neurons that activate. Certain information, like your name and birthday, is easier to remember. This is because the specific pathways for those information are more easily activated.

Imagine a grass walkway that people walk on regularly. Over time, it becomes wider and more defined as more people continue walking on it. Similarly, if we only read the information while studying, the brain won't strongly stimulate the pathway for it.

Then, what is the most effective approach? Active recall is the answer.

Active recall forces you to think of an answer without any cues. This makes your brain work harder and stimulate that neural pathway better. As a result, remembering that information becomes more efficient.

Anki & Flashcards

To help you practice this approach, let’s bring Anki into the equation. Anki is a powerful app that utilizes spaced repetition and active recall – two of the most effective study techniques. The app allows you to create digital flashcards that you can review strategically. Here is an overview of its functionality.

Setting up Anki: A quick tutorial

1. Download Anki: Visit Anki’s website and download the app for your device

2. Create a New Deck: Open the app and click “Create Deck” to start a new set of flashcards.

3. Add Cards:

• Click on “Add.”

• Fill in the “Front” field with a question or prompt.

• Fill in the “Back” field with the answer.

You can also include hints, images, or explanations for added context.

1. Review Cards: Anki will automatically schedule your cards for review. When you study, rate how easy or difficult each card was, and the app will adjust the review intervals accordingly.

Tips for Maximizing Anki

• Be Consistent: Review your cards daily to prevent backlog.

• Break Down Complex Topics: Instead of cramming too much information into one card, break it into smaller, bite-sized chunks.

• Use Images and Mnemonics: Visual aids can make your cards more memorable.

• Tag and Organize: Use tags to group related cards, making them easier to find and review.

Combining active recall with Anki’s spaced repetition helps "exercise" your brain to retain information long-term. Whether you are studying for an exam, learning a new language, or mastering a skill, Anki can help. It can turn your “grass walkways” into well-trodden paths.

Taking breaks

You’ve probably heard of this term the serial position effect. It means you’re more likely to remember what you learned at the beginning and end of a study session. As a result, you tend to forget the information in the middle the most.

For example, we have a 3-hour study session. We tend to remember the first 45 minutes and the last 45 minutes better than the 1.5 hours in the middle. This is frustrating because we basically waste that 1.5 hours in between.

What can we do to make the most of this serial position effect? The answer is taking frequent breaks. If we take a study session and break down into multiple blocks, then the retention curve will look something like this instead:

Each of those vertical black lines represent a break. Taking a small break resets the serial position effect, and so we become more productive during our study session.

One method you can use is the Pomodoro technique, which is 30 minutes of work, with a 5-minute break. Personally, I do 40-45 minutes of work with a 5-minute break, but it is up to personal preference.

The way you utilize that 5-minute break is also crucial. I strongly advise that you avoid using social media or checking your phone.

This is because this can distract you and cause you to go over the allocated 5-minutes, and it breaks your state of flow. I will provide a more detailed explanation of flow later. Instead, consider getting up to stretch, getting a snack, moving around a bit, or just closing your eyes to relax for a bit.

You don't have to master this alone

Learning how to study effectively is a huge step toward achieving your goals, and you're already on the right path. If you'd like a dedicated partner to help you apply these methods to your toughest subjects, stay motivated, and build confidence, Goal Tutoring is here to help. Our tutors act as your personal academic coach, guiding you every step of the way.

Let us help you build a study plan that works for you. Learn more about our programs.