Study Smarter
What’s better for memory: rereading notes or active recall?
Active recall
How many hours of sleep should most college students aim for?
7–9 hours
What’s a micro-goal?
A small, short-term task that builds toward a bigger goal
What’s better: studying 2 hours once a week or 20 minutes every day?
20 minutes every day (consistency beats cramming)
Why should you write all your deadlines in one calendar?
To avoid surprises and manage time effectively
What’s the technique where you spread review sessions out over time instead of cramming?
Spaced repetition
What’s a healthy snack that helps with concentration?
Nuts, fruit, yogurt, granola, etc.
Give an example of a micro-goal for a math class.
Complete one worksheet, review one formula set, practice 5 problems, etc.
What’s one way to use your commute or work breaks for studying?
Listen to lectures, use flashcards, quick note review, etc.
What’s the first step for starting a big research paper early?
Make an outline or gather sources
Name one campus resource that can help improve study habits.
Tutoring center, writing lab, study groups, etc.
Name one physical activity that can recharge your brain.
Walking, stretching, light exercise, etc.
Why are micro-goals more motivating than long-term goals alone?
They create small wins that build confidence and momentum
What’s a “default routine” for studying?
A set time/place you always use (ex: review notes after last class)
Name one campus resource that helps with transfer planning.
Academic advising or transfer center
If you have only 20 minutes, what’s the most effective way to study?
Focused study block with no distractions (Pomodoro style)
Why is scheduling downtime important?
Prevents burnout, helps reset focus, supports long-term momentum
"Do well on finals,” what’s a possible micro-goal for this week?
Summarize one chapter into a study sheet / create 10 flashcards
What technique uses a timer (25 minutes focus, 5 minutes break)?
Pomodoro Technique
What’s one benefit of starting final projects early?
Less stress, more time for revisions, better quality work
What’s the first step to take after reviewing a graded midterm?
Identify patterns in mistakes and ask for professor feedback
What process happens during sleep that helps students remember what they studied?
Memory consolidation
What’s the psychological term for the motivation boost from achieving small goals?
The “progress principle” (or dopamine reward loop)
Why is consistency more powerful than motivation?
Habits carry you forward even when motivation is low
What’s a “finals roadmap”?
A backward plan from exam dates with study steps along the way