Four Brain Boosters for Helping Improve Study Skills
The human brain is one of the most complex objects ever found in nature. Despite well over a century of research, we're still only starting to crack its codes.
For students, this is a bit of a shame, because we still don't fully understand why some people ace tests while others don't, despite similar intelligence and the same hours of study.
With that said, there are a few "hacks" you can try on your own that may help you think critically and commit knowledge to memory. They won't replace proven teaching methods or other forms of study support, but they may help you score higher on tests and exams if you put them into practice.
Here are four such brain boosters:
1. Switch hands when performing certain tasks
For safe daily tasks such as brushing your teeth or buttering toast, switch to the hand you don't usually use. The idea is that by performing familiar tasks in an unfamiliar way, you force your brain to "work" in a new way, which may in turn make it easier to think critically.
2. Close your eyes when performing certain tasks
Again, we aren't suggesting that you operate machinery with your eyes closed. But try taking a shower without the benefit of sight (come shampoo time, you practically do anyway). Handling bottles and taps without looking makes your brain work in new ways, which may help you start the day in a more creative frame of mind.
3. Study in the same place
New study environments can distract you. In addition, the information you take in may get mixed up with memories of the new experience. Instead, hit the books in your bedroom or somewhere else very familiar. That way, more of your attention goes to the material you need to learn. For ideas on setting up that space, see how to set up your study room.
4. Review right before bed
It's important to review newly learned material on the same day, and bedtime is a great opportunity for this. By that point most of the day's other concerns have faded, and sleep is thought to play a role in turning recently learned information into long-term memory. By reviewing the day's material right before you fall asleep, you may improve your chances of remembering it over time.
These four brain boosters are not going to turn C students into A students overnight, or even after several weeks. But chances are they will help you think a little more freshly and retain information a little longer. As far as academic improvement goes, they're a good place to start.