Tired of studying for hours and still feeling like you’re not retaining anything? In this post, we’ll explore seven science-based study techniques that can help you study smarter – not harder – and boost your long-term retention. These proven strategies will make your learning more efficient and effective, so you can get better results in less time.

1. Interval Studying
Interval Studying is a common study technique that consists of studying for shorter periods of time – dividing what you have to learn into small, digestible chunks – and taking frequent breaks. This allows you to stay engaged with what you are learning and prevent burn out. According to the National Institutes of Health it significantly boosts your retention. Obviously, this technique does not encourage equal parts study and break; the recommended ratio is fifty minutes of studying and a ten minute break.

2. Summaries
Summarizing key points in a text is a rather intuitive way to study, however it has proven extremely effective. For best results, you should try to summarize what you have just read without consulting an external source. The simple act of retrieving essential information from your brain will increase comprehension and memorization, getting better results than other techniques that try to accomplish a similar effect – such as highlighting or re-reading.

3. The Feynman Technique
The Feynman Technique is essentially the practice of learning complicated concepts quickly through explaining them in extremely simple terms. One application of this is to explain and elaborate on the concept at hand to someone – real or imagined – in a simple, effective way. According to leading psychologists, explanation and elaboration is the number one way to build pathways in your mind to help you recall information in the future.

4. Interleaved Study
It has been debated whether it is most effective to study the full content of one subject and then move onto another, or to alternate between subjects. In the end, science determined that Interleaved Study is better – not so much for learning but for increasing study. Essentially, alternating between subjects gives the illusion of a break which increases your mental capacity.

5. The SQ3R Technique: Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review
This study method is one of the best when it comes to helping students retain key information from textbooks. SQ3R is an acronym that stands for the five steps in this comprehensive process: Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review. To apply this technique, one first surveys the chapter, making note of key features, headlines, and the like. Then you formulate questions around the content in order to prepare your mind to absorb key information. After that, the three “r’s” simply consist of reading through the chapter, reciting (summarizing out loud) as much as you remember, and then going back through to review any important content you could not recall while reciting. This process has proven especially effective in studying for exams.

6. The Leitner System
The Leitner System is a method by which one can get the most out of a very common mode of memorization: flashcards. Ideally, you will have three to five numbered boxes for your flashcards, all the cards beginning in box #1. The general idea is: if you get a card right, it moves up a box; if wrong, it either moves down a box or stays in box #1. Each box determines how often you practice each set. One might follow this schedule: box #1 – everyday, box #2 – every other day, box #3 – every four days, and so on depending on your specific goals. This system allows you to get the most out of flashcards in the most effective way.

7. Exercising Before Study
Though this might not seem like a study “technique” per say, timing an exercise right before a study session has profuse benefits. Firstly, it kickstarts brain function by feeding it essential nutrients, helping to improve memory and cognitive performance. Additionally, it releases endorphins, which improve your mood and reduce stress. It’s important to note that this workout session doesn’t need to consist of an hour at the gym, it could simply be a quick fifteen minute home exercise or jog – whatever works best for you!

By incorporating these science-based study techniques into your routine, you’ll be able to study more effectively and retain information longer. Remember, learning isn’t just about putting in the hours—it’s about using the right strategies. Happy studying!