How to read and remember what you study

Many students read the same handout three times and still forget it in the exam hall. The problem is usually the method, not the student. These techniques are backed by learning research and cost nothing.

1. Read with a question in mind

Before you start, look at the headings and ask what each section will answer. Reading to answer a question keeps your mind active instead of drifting.

2. Close the book and recall

After each section, look away and say or write the main points from memory. Then check. The effort of pulling it out of your memory is what makes it stick.

3. Explain it simply

Explain the topic out loud as if teaching a younger student. Where you get stuck is exactly what you have not understood yet.

4. Space your reviews

Go over it again the next day, then a few days later, then a week later. Each review takes less time and the memory lasts much longer.

5. Mix topics

When practising questions, mix topics instead of doing one topic all day. It feels harder but trains you to recognise which method each question needs, just like the exam.

Habits to drop

• Highlighting everything.
• Rereading without testing yourself.
• Studying with your phone notifications on.