5 Proven Study Hacks Every University Student Should Try (Including the One Tool You’ll Wish You’d Known Sooner)

Let’s be real: studying can feel like a battle of wills. The material is dense, your time is limited, and distractions are everywhere. But what if you could make the process not just faster but also more effective?

Here are five study hacks that go beyond the usual advice, guaranteed to help you tackle those textbooks with less stress and more results—plus, a bonus tip featuring the one tool that’s about to become your new best friend.

1. The “Active Recall” Habit

Passive reading is like hoping a good movie will stay in your mind without rewatching it. For real retention, use active recall. After each section, close the book and jot down everything you remember. Try to summarize key points without peeking.

Why it Works: Active recall boosts long-term memory because you’re challenging your brain to retrieve information,solidifying those connections.

2. Mind Map Like a Pro

For visual learners, creating mind maps of topics can be a game-changer. Start with a central idea and draw branches for subtopics, details, and connections. It’s like turning your notes into a visual map that’s easier to remember and reference.

Why it Works: Mind maps help organize complex information in a format that mirrors the way the brain naturally organizes thoughts.

3. The Pomodoro Technique (With a Twist)

Use the classic Pomodoro method: study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. But here’s the twist: instead of using the break to scroll through your phone, do something that lets your mind wander, like stretching or taking a short walk. Physical movement helps reset your focus.

Why it Works: Breaks prevent burnout and keep your focus sharp for longer periods.

4. Scholarpal for Step-by-Step Help

This is the one tool you’ll wish you’d known sooner: Scholarpal is a Chrome extension designed to help you break down tough study problems. Highlight any question or phrase, and Scholarpal will give you an instant, step-by-step answer. It’s like having a study buddy who’s always on call, ready to explain concepts as soon as you need them.

Why it Works: Scholarpal saves you time by delivering clear answers without switching between tabs or searching for resources. No more getting stuck on one question!

5. The “Feynman” Technique

Named after the physicist Richard Feynman, this technique involves explaining what you’ve just learned in the simplest terms possible. Imagine you’re teaching the concept to a friend who’s totally new to the topic. This forces you to break down complicated ideas in a way that’s clear and straightforward.

Why it Works: Teaching reinforces your understanding and highlights any weak points that need more review.

Wrapping Up

Studying doesn’t have to be a slog. With these five techniques in your toolkit—and Scholarpal as your on-demand guide—you’ll be on your way to studying smarter, not harder.