Evidence-Based Study Strategies This Exam Season
Exam season is rapidly approaching, and many students don’t know how to make the most of the few days before a big test. Keep reading to learn more about these four effective study techniques that are all backed by science!
Interleaving:
Particularly useful for the sciences, interleaving aids students in seeing the connections between various topics covered throughout the course.
For example, a student in a biology class might study the Krebs cycle one day, then the organ systems the next day, and enzymatic regulation the day after. Using this method can help students see patterns between various topics that may not be taught chronologically.
Interleaving is a revision technique that encourages students to vary the content they are studying, and refrain from going over one topic for too long. Try not to switch things up too often though, by staying on one topic for at least two Pomodoros (read more in the section on the Pomodoro Technique)!
Spaced repetition:
Based on research about one’s ‘forgetting curve,’ the technique of spaced repetition was developed to enable the long-term retention of information. Essentially, the forgetting curve theory states that after the initial formation of a memory, it is quickly lost within a matter of days. Unless, of course, the individual consciously reviews this information several times over some period, in which case, the so-called forgetting curve would plateau.
Spaced studying takes advantage of this theory by increasing the distance between the times that you are exposed to the content you are studying. For example, you would look over a particular piece of information today, then one day from today, then one week from the last time. Be sure to give yourself enough time before the exam date to get in several of these sessions!
Active recall:
Basically a form of self-quizzing, the strategy of active recall encourages you to look away from your notes and ask yourself questions about the material. Alternatively, call a friend and ask them to quiz you over Zoom!
Flashcards are useful here, and failure is encouraged! Because any question you get wrong will stand out to you, you’re more likely to remember the correct answer. Don’t get discouraged - with the active recall method, practice really does make perfect. Make sure to focus on comprehension and application here, not memorization.
Making the most of your time:
Perhaps the most user-acclaimed strategy is the Pomodoro Technique. To employ this strategy, simply set a timer for 25 minutes. During this time, focus only on the material you are studying. Then, take a 5 minute break and do anything but study. Stay off the screens, though!
The purpose of this strategy is to give your brain a break, and to make sure you stay engaged for hours without getting overwhelmed. After the fourth ‘Pomodoro’ - that is, after the fourth 25 minute interval - take a longer, 15 minute break.
Of course, not every strategy works for everyone. Personally, I prefer using the Pomodoro method for day-to-day tasks, and active recall for particularly difficult exams.
Be sure to try out these evidence-based study strategies for yourself, and let us know which one works for you in the comments!
Sources:
https://medschoolinsiders.com/study-strategies/7-evidence-based-study-strategies-how-to-use-each/
https://psychology.ucsd.edu/undergraduate-program/undergraduate-resources/academic-writing-resources/effective-studying/index.html
https://psychology.ucsd.edu/undergraduate-program/undergraduate-resources/academic-writing-resources/effective-studying/index.html
Written by Veronica Aharon, 2nd year BSc Student at York University.
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