In the months leading up to the month of May, students all over the country fill their notebooks and empty their pens to prepare for the period of testing. Some more disciplined individuals have schedules for when they study. Some, like me, prefer to cram all the knowledge they have learned over the year the week before the dreaded day that one hundred kids will sit in a gymnasium in silence for four hours. 

This year, I am on a mission to fix my study habits. I invite you, the reader, to join me and learn about healthy study habits to help you prepare for your testing.

First, let us define the difference between Advanced Placement(AP) and International Baccalaureate(IB) tests which differ mainly in the structure and assessment style. Depending on whether the subject you are studying for is AP or IB, you may need to alter your study habits to best understand the material. 

AP exams, scored 1-5, are subject-specific, content heavy, and usually feature a variety of different testing styles including multiple choice, document based questions, short answer questions, and long answer questions. 

IB exams, scored 1-7, emphasize critical thinking, research, intercultural understanding, and in-depth writing and analysis. IB exams for many courses often require students to be a part of the 2-year IB diploma programme. Exams focus heavily on free response, essays, and Internal Assessments(IA). IAs vary by subject.4

#1: The Feynman Technique

This technique, developed by Nobel Prize Winning physicist Richard Feynman, is a four-step model for mastering new, complex models. The Feynman Technique is proven to improve long-term recall. Research published in the Journal of Applied Research in Memory and Cognition found that using retrieval-based techniques, such as the Feynman Technique, resulted in 31% better long-term recall compared to passive re-reading. 

Step #1: Orient & Set a Goal

The first step of this process is to identify the concepts you are struggling with the most or that you want to learn the most. Note these concepts on a blank sheet of paper.

Step #2: Practice Recall

In your own words, write down an explanation of the concepts you chose. Use plain language, avoid technical terms, and be as thorough as possible. Then, pretend you are explaining it someone who is completely unfamiliar with the topic.

Step #3: Build Metacognition

Identify where your explanation is weak or has gaps. Go back to your books or other notes and re-learn the topic. Then, add or annotate your previous summary with your newfound knowledge.

Step #4: Simplify

Simplify your language into its simplest form. If you’re using confusing language or simply paraphrasing source material, filter the content into your own words. Reach the point where you can thoroughly explain to topic to someone with no prior knowledge.

#2: Set a schedule

Setting a schedule is arguably one of the most important factors in improving your study habits. Start small, dedicate 30 minutes every night at 8pm to study. As you become used to the schedule, slowly start increasing your time. 

Besides setting a study schedule, setting a daily routine is extremely beneficial. According to Northwestern Medicine, setting a routine can help you manage stress, eat better, eat healthier, and exercise regularly. 

#3: Clean your space

Cleaning your space can clear your mind, and we all deserve to live in clean, healthy environments. Researchers at Yale University found that visual clutter competes for your brain’s processing power. This makes it harder to concentrate and retain information. When your room is ready for focus and your materials are organized, it puts your mind in a mode ready for work.

If you are procrastinating to start studying as much as I am, I hope these tips helped you and gave you some ideas. Remember to take care of yourself. Drink water, eat healthy meals, and stay well-rested, AJ wishes you good luck on your journey to achieving healthy study habits!