What if the most common and best way to study is completely wrong?
It’s a surprising thought, but one that’s true for most students. For years, common study habits like rereading notes, highlighting pages of textbooks, or cramming the night before an exam have been considered the “right” way to learn. The problem? These strategies may feel productive, but they don’t actually help students retain knowledge or perform better on tests.
The good news is that we know powerful study techniques that really work. When students adopt these proven methods, they not only improve their grades but also build confidence, reduce stress, and become lifelong learners.
Let’s dive into some of the biggest study myths and what to do instead.
Study Myth #1: Rereading Notes is the Best Way to Study
For decades, students have been told to reread their notes or textbooks until the material sticks. The problem is that rereading is a passive activity. It creates a sense of familiarity, but that doesn’t mean the information will be remembered during a test.
The Better Approach: Active Recall
Active recall is one of the most effective learning strategies available. Instead of just reading notes, students quiz themselves on key concepts, explain ideas in their own words, or practise writing answers without looking at the textbook. By pulling information out of memory, the brain strengthens its ability to retrieve it later.
Study Myth #2: Highlighting and Underlining is Enough
Highlighters are a staple in every student’s backpack, but research shows that highlighting on its own does little to improve comprehension. In fact, students often end up highlighting too much, which makes it hard to distinguish what’s actually important.
The Better Approach: Summarization and Teaching
Instead of filling pages with neon stripes, students should focus on summarizing concepts in their own words. Even more powerful? Teaching the material to someone else. Explaining ideas out loud, even to an imaginary audience, forces the brain to organize and clarify information, which leads to deeper understanding. This is called the Feynman technique.
Study Myth #3: Long Study Sessions Equal Better Learning
Cramming late into the night before an exam might feel productive, but it’s one of the least efficient ways to study. Long sessions lead to fatigue, reduced focus, and poor memory retention.
The Better Approach: Spaced Practice & Pomodoro Technique
Breaking study time into shorter, focused sessions is far more effective. A popular method is the Pomodoro technique, where students study for 25–30 minutes, then take a short break. Pairing this with spaced practice, reviewing material over several days instead of all at once, creates stronger, longer-lasting memories.
Study Myth #4: Multitasking Makes Studying More Efficient
Texting friends, watching YouTube, or listening to music while studying might seem harmless, but multitasking divides attention and makes it harder for the brain to process information fully. Studies show it can reduce productivity by as much as 40%.
The Better Approach: Focused Study Environments
Students should aim for distraction-free study spaces. Turning off notifications and setting their devices to Do Not Distrub, as well as setting specific study goals, and creating a calm environment lead to better concentration and higher-quality learning in less time.
Study Myth #5: Intelligence Alone Determines Success
Many students believe that good grades are only for the smart kids. This misconception can discourage learners who face challenges or need more time to grasp new material.
The Better Approach: Growth Mindset & Consistent Practice
Research proves that intelligence is not fixed. With consistent effort, the right strategies, and a positive mindset, students can make incredible progress. Emphasizing how you study, rather than how “smart” you are, helps unlock potential in every learner.
Set your child up for academic success—explore our expert guide.
Why Rethinking Study Habits Matters
Studying smarter, not harder, isn’t just about higher test scores. It’s about:
- Reducing stress before exams
- Building self-confidence in academic abilities
- Creating habits that support lifelong learning
- Giving students back time for rest, hobbies, and balance
By letting go of outdated study myths and adopting strategies backed by science, students can achieve more with less frustration and even enjoy the learning process.
Smarter Studying Starts Here
The way students study can make the difference between feeling overwhelmed and feeling prepared. If your current approach isn’t delivering results, it may be time to question those old habits and replace them with strategies that truly work.
By practising active recall, focusing on shorter sessions, and adopting a growth mindset, students can transform their study routine and their academic outcomes.
Success in school isn’t about how long you study; it’s about how effectively you study. We can help students perfect their study habits. Ask us how!
