Nothing’s more important for a busy student than the ability to learn fast. Our memory capacity is great but still a mystery. What is memory? And why do some people learn faster than others?

If only we had an ultimate recipe for building a stronger brain and memorizing things more effectively. Imagine learning a new language in a day? That would have made us superhumans. But let’s avoid pipe-dreaming and talk about things that can truly enhance your brain’s productivity.

You might find hundreds of articles that list science-backed study tips altogether, causing confusion among the students. All study tips fall into five major domains. For you to understand better, a brief description of every step you need to take to improve your study potential is listed below.

STEP 1: Take Care of Your Physical State

No matter how scientifically advanced a study tip is… If your physical health requires any kind of improvement, you can’t count on learning fast and effectively. Only when your body is well-rested and ready to conquer new academic heights can you work on improving your study efficiency.

There’s no special trick here. Sleep well. Eat well. Exercise daily. Run health check-ups and ensure you always feel well. And if endless classes and homework turn you into a sleepy and hungry student, contact Educibly, an “do my homework online” service, for help. Their experts will take care of your assignments while you catch up on your sleeping hours and delicious meals.

STEP 2: Take Care of Your Mental Health

You can’t actually dream of being more productive if your mental health is not stable. You have to ensure your lifestyle is ideal in any possible terms. When emotions are standing in the way, it is difficult to concentrate and focus on studying.

So first things first:

• Get rid of any distractions.
• Try to avoid stress and negative thinking.
• Don’t put too much pressure on yourself.
• Don’t let your private life affairs impact your study efficiency.
• Try to be as serious and emotion-free as possible.

These are just the ground rules. When your mind’s too preoccupied with other things, you can’t possibly make the most of the learning process. With or without study techniques, put your thoughts and emotions in order first. Then proceed with the following extra tips.

Keep a Diary

It can be an application on your phone or a miniature journal you can carry on wherever you go. Write down every idea that pops into your head. Describe your feelings. Record your memories. This practice allows you to speak to your inner self and ensures your thoughts are always being considered.

Follow a Weekly Agenda

On Sunday evening, make yourself a cup of tea, find a cozy place, and think of all the things you wish to pursue in the next 7 days. Don’t dream big. Better keep it realistic. Write down routine obligations, like grocery shopping or a medical appointment. Add exciting engagements, like drawing, reading, self-care, etc. And only then make a study plan. This practice leads to a mindful lifestyle with a solid balance.

Challenge Yourself

It doesn’t have to be a daily challenge. But something that exercises and proves your inner strength. For example, try listening to three different podcasts per week. Creative Pep Talk is best suited for those looking for ways to unlock self-determination and build a thriving creative practice. Check it out, or look for other episodes that sparkle your interest. You can also explore more challenges here.

STEP 4: Take Care of Your Surroundings

Where you study matters just as much as how you study. Suppose you sit in a dark room with no fresh air or sparkle of motivation, no wonder you need science-backed techniques to study better.

So after you take care of yourself, make an extra effort to customize your study space and make it a productive one:

• Your study place must be a comfort bubble (yet not too comfy). Make sure you have everything needed to maintain a full-featured and healthy work setting.
• Your study place must represent you. Customize it the way you FEEL it: background music, lights, flowers, motivational posters, etc.
• Your study place must be your safety area. Safety is the key to tranquility. And tranquility releases creative spirit.
• Your study place must be flexible. Whenever you feel like going out for a walk or grabbing a coffee, don’t hesitate to bring a notebook or a laptop with you. You never know when a creative impulse may strike you.

Make a place that suits you the best. Yes, some learners comprehend things better with loud music on. Some need complete silence. Others prefer intimidating and cozy lights, while the rest of the students need a clear and bright space. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try out different study settings.

Find and Use the Right Study Approach

Finally, determine what type of learning approach fits you the best.

Determine Your Learning Style

Find out what kind of a learner you are.

Follow Tips Suggested for Your Learning Type

• for kinesthetic learning.
• for auditory learning.
• for visual learning.
• for read and write learning.

Follow General Tips to Enhance Study Productivity

• use post-it notes to memorize things.
• use flashcards (also digital ones).
• study everywhere you can (while commuting, waiting in queues, etc.).
• listen to audio sources (if applicable).
• watch videos to memorize things faster (plus, it is fun).
• repeat everything you’ve learned before you go to sleep and after you wake up.
• exercise your memory daily.
• study in groups (if it suits you).

Follow Your Dream but Aim for the Goal

You can’t learn an entire course program in a night. Your brain is powerful, your memory is strong, but there’s a limit to everything. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself.

Be realistic about your dream. Split it into smaller goals, be patient, and aim for one goal after another. Good luck!