How many hours of study per credit hour are recommended each week
2-3 hours
What study method is better than rereading?
Retrieval practice (testing yourself)
True or false- Highlighting is one of the most effective strategies when reading text?
False! Must be combined with active review/retrieval to be effective.
What’s the best way to know if you’re ready for a test?
Self-test without looking at notes.
What’s the #1 time-waster that students underestimate?
Multitasking and phone use
What is the “Pomodoro Technique"?
25 minutes focused work + 5 minute breaks
What is a mnemonic device?
A memory aid (acronyms, rhymes, visualization, etc.)
Why is paraphrasing notes more effective than copying word for word?
It requires processing and understanding
True/False: It’s better to start with the hardest questions first.
False — start with easier ones to build confidence.
Give 1 way to reduce phone distractions.
Airplane mode, app blockers, phone in another room
What does “backward planning” mean?
Starting with the deadline and planning steps backwards
What’s the role of stress in memory?
Mild stress can improve recall, but high stress hurts it.
Give one benefit of visual mapping notes.
Helps see connections and relationships.
Why is sleep important the night before a test?
Sleep consolidates memory → improves performance.
Why is it helpful to study in the same space consistently?
Builds a habit cue! This place = focus.
What’s one benefit of using a weekly planner/calendar?
Visualizes workload and prevents last-minute surprises.
What is the difference between recall and recognition?
Recall = pulling info from memory
Recognition = identifying info when you see it
Why does handwriting help memory more than typing sometimes?
It forces slower, deeper processing.
What’s a good first step when given an essay exam prompt?
Outline key points before writing.
Name one way to create a focus-friendly study space.
Quiet, organized, free of distractions (phone away, good lighting...)
Why is it better to spread study sessions across the week?
Spacing improves memory and reduces cramming.
What is elaborative rehearsal?
Connecting new info to prior knowledge or examples.
Name one structured note-taking method
Cornell, outline, mapping, boxing.
What’s one effective way to reduce test anxiety?
Preparation with retrieval practice + relaxation techniques (deep breathing, positive self-talk).
What’s one way to prepare your brain for a focused study session?
Quick mindfulness, stretching, or breathing before starting.