When studying feels overwhelming, having different study hacks can make studying go from stressful to stress-free. By understanding how the brain remembers best and what strategies are most effective, students can transform any study session and study smarter, not harder.
How Can Students Optimize Their Learning?
Getting good grades isn’t just about a student’s natural intelligence. Effort, habits, and routines also play a large role in students’ overall academic performance. Developing the right skills early on is key. Here are tips for students to support their studying and learning at home and in school.
1. Create a Focus-Friendly Study Area
Getting into the right mindset when studying is the first step to ensuring students make the most of their study time. Environment plays a big role in this process.
Having a dedicated space where distractions are minimized helps keeps students focused when studying.
- Setting up a quiet, consistent study spot that signals “focus time.” Read about Study Studios
- Limiting access to phones, tablets, and other digital distractions during homework.
- Encouraging short, structured study sessions (like the Pomodoro Technique: 25 minutes work, 5 minutes break).
Being focused for a short time is more productive than unfocused studying for a longer time.
2. Boost Memory and Retention with Study Techniques
Studying is so much more than simply reading over notes! Using proper study techniques can improve how much information students retain when reviewing.
- Recite and quiz: explain concepts aloud and create a quiz with flashcards.
- Review topics at intervals (e.g., a day later, a few days later, a week later).
- Discuss subjects learned at school that day; it cements knowledge and identifies areas needing extra attention.
3. Support Healthy Habits
Boost academic performace with a brain and body that is properly cared for. With healthy habits and routines in place for the body, the brain benefits, leading to optimzed study sessions.
- Get Enough Sleep: most teens need between 8-10 hours for optimal health. Learn more
- Prioritize nutrition: Whole foods, omega-3s, and plenty of water fuel brainpower.
- Promote physical activity: Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, boosting concentration and creativity.
4. Supplements for Optimal Brain Health
Known as “brain boosters,” nootropics are are supplements studied for their potential to support focus, memory, and mental clarity. Some natural, student-friendly options include:
- Omega 3 Fatty Acids: Examples can include various fish oil, flaxseed, chia seeds. These are linked to brain development and memory.
- B vitamins: Support energy and cognitive function.
- Caffeine alternatives: Green tea contains gentle levels of caffeine paired with L-theanine, which promotes calm focus (best for older teens or young adults).
Important: Always consult a healthcare provider before introducing supplements. Healthy lifestyle habits, not pills or powders, remain the strongest foundation for learning.
5. Develop a Growth Mindset
The most powerful tool students have in thei study toolkit is hte belief that they are capable and that their efforts can lead to results. After all, intelligence is not fixed; effort and persistence are the keys to growth. Remember to celebrate progress, not perfection. Also keep in mind that grades are only one marker of school performance.
Find everything you need to know about Study Skills here.
Study Smarter, Not Harder
Studying hard to get good grades is school isn’t about how long but how well a student studies. With the right support and skills, all students can optimize their study techniques and habits to reduce stress when it is time to hit the books. By optimizing their study routine, including, environment, memory-boosting strategies, and healthy habits, all students can have the tools they need to thrive academically and beyond.
Start today! Small changes can have a lifelong impact on learning and confidence.
To elevate study skills in any subject, connect with GradePower Learning. Our programs are designed to help students make the most of their learning, in and out of the classroom.
Give us a call today.
