Feb 17, 2025

8 mistakes students should avoid to study effectively

Anjali Mittal

Study sessions shouldn’t go to waste

When sitting down to study, make sure you are making the most of your time. Students spend hours staring at their textbooks but still don’t manage to score high in exams. This can be improved by avoiding the mistakes that most students make, to score competitively high in class.

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Switching between different subjects

When studying, avoid switching between contrasting subjects (like math and history). Try sticking to one subject during a study session. If it gets too tiresome, pick a subject related to the one you’re already studying to complement the ideas you’ve developed in your mind.

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Just Reviewing Without Testing Yourself

Many students read over the material without actively testing their memory on what they’ve studied. Avoid this mistake by ensuring your brain is retaining what you’re learning through regular self-testing.

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Over-Highlighting

Students often have a habit of over-highlighting in textbooks. While this can be a good practice, summarizing the material in your own words is always more effective. Over-highlighting often doesn't help because the text is harder to memorize when it’s not in your own words.

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Skipping tough topics

Students often skip over tougher topics, thinking that only the easier ones will help during exams. This can be a disastrous habit. Overcoming your weaknesses is essential to scoring high marks. Gradually work on your weak areas to avoid too much stress during exam time.

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Studying in the Same Spot Every Time

Your brain retains information better when exposed to different environments. Studying in the same spot every time can make it harder for you to study effectively.

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Not paying attention in Class

Pay close attention during your classes. Actively engaging during lectures can help you maintain a consistent study streak and prevent information overload during exams.

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Ignoring the importance of timing

Study when you are most alert during the day. Cramming information during the later parts of the day, when you’re tired, reduces your efficiency.

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Planning group study sessions last minute

Don’t wait until the last minute to plan a group study session. Plan ahead to stay prepared and make the most of it. Group study sessions can be really effective when planned properly. Don’t let them go to waste.

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Thanks For Reading!

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