Learn to study like a Harvard student. The shift from high school to the demanding pace of college academics can be overwhelming for many students , and figuring out the most effective study strategies for a new, heavier course load can feel like a challenging task.

Effective study methods work because they engage multiple ways of learning. As Jessie Schwab, psychologist and preceptor at the Harvard College Writing Program, points out, we tend to misjudge our own learning. Being able to recite memorized information is not the same as actually retaining it.

This blog will provide study tips and strategies to help you not only survive but thrive in your first college class, Harvard style.

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1. Don’t leave it all to the last minute.

It may be tempting to procrastinate and save all your studying for the big exam until the last moment, but research shows that cramming is ineffective for long-term learning.

2. Have a study plan.

Creating a study plan with clear goals can make you feel more prepared and provide a roadmap to follow. Schwab noted that procrastination is a common mistake students make when adjusting to the demands of university-level coursework.

3. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

You don’t have to tackle challenging material alone. While many students may not be accustomed to asking for help in high school, seeking additional support is a common and valuable practice in college. Various resources are available to support you, such as your professors, tutors, and classmates.

4. Form a study group.

5. Figure out what study methods work best for you.

Finding the study methods that work best for you may take some time and experimentation. There are many ways to assess your understanding beyond just reviewing notes or using flashcards.

6. Take rests.

The brain can only absorb so much information at a time. Research indicates that wakeful rest is just as crucial as practice when it comes to learning a new skill. Rest gives your brain the opportunity to compress and consolidate the memories of what you’ve practiced.

To maximize your learning, ensure you take adequate time for relaxation and sleep between study sessions, allowing your brain to recharge and better absorb new information.

7. Create a study space.

Your study environment can be just as important as your study methods.

Choose a space that’s free from distractions and equipped with all the materials you need. Keep a snack and a water bottle nearby to stay energised and focused throughout your study session.

8. Create a reward system.

Studying can be both mentally and emotionally draining, and maintaining your stamina can be tough.

Research suggests that rewarding yourself during your work can enhance your enjoyment and motivation.

So, after completing a challenging study session, indulge in a treat like ice cream or unwind with an episode of your favorite show as a well-deserved reward.

9. Always review.

Reinforcing the information you’ve learned through practice is the most effective way to retain it.

For instance, using flashcards to test yourself may be more challenging than simply reading a textbook, but it leads to better long-term retention.

10. Set achievable goals.

Setting specific goals along the way of your studying journey can show how much progress you’ve made. Try using the SMART method:

• Specific: Set specific goals with an actionable plan, such as “I will study every day between 2 and 4 p.m. at the library.”
• Measurable: Plan to study a certain number of hours or raise your exam score by a certain percent to give you a measurable benchmark.
• Realistic: It’s important that your goals be realistic so you don’t get discouraged. For example, if you currently study two hours per week, increase the time you spend to three or four hours rather than 10.
• Time-specific: Keep your goals consistent with your academic calendar and your other responsibilities.

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Incorporating even a few of these Harvard study strategies can significantly enhance your understanding of the material in your courses, ensuring that you’re truly absorbing the content. These techniques not only set you up for success throughout your academic career but also provide valuable skills that will benefit you in various aspects of your personal and professional life moving forward. By adopting effective study habits now, you’re building a strong foundation for long-term achievement and growth.

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