30 Genius Hacks That Have Students Asking "How Come Nobody Told Me This Earlier?"

Insight Education, an organization that provides personalized and comprehensive guidance through every facet of the high school experience and college admissions process, acknowledges that studying can be tough. To make it easier, it suggests following a clear study schedule. "If you don't develop a study routine, you risk losing focus and hurting your performance in your classes," Insight Education warns. "Write out a study schedule in a notebook, and make it realistic! If you have band practice after school for an hour, then dinner with your family, it’s unlikely you’ll then want to spend 3 hours studying for a calculus test. Be kind to yourself and set realistic and achievable goals for your study schedule."

Next, try to make a goal for every study session. Just flipping through notes or the textbook is not very effective. Instead, set a concrete goal for each study session to gain the most from your homework, for example, reading a certain number of pages in the textbook or mastering a specific concept. 

That being said, be careful and avoid cramming. Sure, it can work sometimes, but the knowledge you gain from it is temporary. Cramming becomes especially problematic when you're working on tough assignments where the information is cumulative. Try your best to manage your time and start studying sooner rather than later. A last-minute revision is OK, but don't rely on it too much.

Also, make use of your weekends. Of course, it is a good time to unwind, but you also need to avoid rushing during the week. "Build some weekend study into your schedule, even if it's just an hour on Sunday afternoon. It's important to find a good balance, so you're still getting to see your friends and spend time with your family, but you're also starting the week off on a good foot," Insight Education advises.

Additionally, you can try creating a study group. However, if you choose to do so, pick your study buddies wisely. "Make sure this is someone you can actually get stuff done with. Also be cautious with including too many people in your group, as this can make it easier to get distracted. You want to study around people who are motivated to get through their work, and also happy to talk through problems and concepts if you need a hand figuring something out."

As helpful as all of these tips and hacks are, remember to be flexible with your study techniques. Don't be afraid to mix it up. Eventually, you will find what's best for you.