Last Updated: July 15, 2025
Evidence-Based Techniques
| Technique | Effectiveness | How |
|---|---|---|
| Active Recall | ★★★★★ | Test yourself — close the book, write what you remember |
| Spaced Repetition | ★★★★★ | Review at increasing intervals (Anki, Quizlet) |
| Feynman Technique | ★★★★☆ | Explain the concept to a 5-year-old — gaps become obvious |
| Pomodoro | ★★★★☆ | 25 min focus → 5 min break → repeat. After 4 cycles, 15-30 min break |
Techniques That DON'T Work Well
| Technique | Why It Fails |
|---|---|
| Re-reading | Passive — feels productive, low retention. Familiarity ≠ mastery. |
| Highlighting | Easy to overdo — highlighting everything = highlighting nothing |
| Cramming | Works short-term, gone in 48 hours. Information never reaches long-term memory. |
Note-Taking Systems
| System | Best For |
|---|---|
| Cornell Method | Lectures — notes on right, cues on left, summary at bottom |
| Mind Mapping | Visual thinkers — central concept branches to related ideas |
| Outline Method | Structured topics — I. Main point, A. Sub-point, 1. Detail |
Optimal Study Session
1. Preview (2 min)Skim headings, bold text, diagrams — build a mental map
2. Study (25 min)Read actively — ask questions, make connections
3. Break (5 min)Stand up, walk, don't check phone (screen = not a real break)
4. Recall (5 min)Write down everything you remember — no peeking
5. Review (3 min)Check what you missed — that's what to focus on next session
Pro Tip: Re-reading and highlighting feel productive but are the least effective study methods. Replace them with active recall: close the book and try to explain the concept from memory. The struggle IS the learning.