Strategies for Academic Success

Written by Rhea Manjunath

Academic challenges are inevitable, yet some knowledge about the way the brain works makes it easier to approachlearning. First of all, one considers the strategy of active learning. While passively reading over your notes, active engagement with the material could be achieved by teaching others, drawing schemata, or employing flashcards, which significantly fosters comprehension and recall.

Another useful technique is the spacing effect. Instead of studying all night before an exam, studying for a few days inadvance will allow the brain to process and store information so that it will be easier to recall when it is needed.
Sleep is perhaps one of the most underestimated parts of studying. During deep sleep, the brain consolidates information, transferring knowledge from short-term to long-term memory. It is counterintuitive, but sacrificing sleep tostudy more is counterproductive to retention and performance.

Taking regular breaks is also crucial. The Pomodoro Method of working in focused intervals-say, 25 minutes thentaking small breaks may help maintain concentration and prevent burnout. Use these breaks to stretch, hydrate, or take a brief walk to rejuvenate the mind.

Physical exercise, ranging from jogging to dancing, can increase brain activity. Increased blood circulation to the brain makes a person more creative and problem-solving-minded, hence this form of adjustment is encouraged to formpart of your study routine.

Applying these evidence-based practices will have students working smarter, not harder, toward achieving specific academic goals.

Written by Rhea Manjunath from MEDILOQUY