Poor study habits and how to break them

Breaking your poor study habits and replacing them with good study habits could make a world of difference to your grades. It could even help you feel happier and more satisfied with school. 

How to stop cramming

You can break this poor study habit with a study schedule. Map out all the times you have available to study – after school, in the evenings, on weekends, even in the mornings – and plan which subjects you’ll study and revise in those time blocks. 

Getting distracted

You’re finally in the zone on your English essay when a notification on your phone grabs your attention and you lose your train of thought. Or you’re on a roll with a series of practice equations when your brother starts blasting music in the next room and now you can barely think. 

Leaving your notes unorganised

We know taking notes in class can feel a bit rushed. You don’t always have time to neatly organise and colour-code each sentence as your teacher speaks. 

Sticking to standard studying technique

One bad study habit that flies under the radar is repeating the same approach to studying or revision, even if it’s not working that well. 

How to keep your study interesting

– Take your written notes and summarise/paraphrase them in your own words. – Turn paragraphs or bullet points of notes into mind maps or diagrams to make them visual. – Record yourself speaking through your notes and play them back.