What's a Good Study Habit?

What really counts as a good study habit anyway? I see it over and over again: people stress the importance of developing good study habits without really asking themselves who defines which study habits are "good" or "bad." Why should you be forced to learn in a way that doesn't suit you? We all learn things differently, right?

Enough ranting. Here are three common traits I've noticed in good study habits.

1. Efficiency

The habit has to give you a pretty good return on your investment. As basic as this might sound, it's very common for students to develop fruitless habits, such as trying to study in front of the TV or while browsing the web. The funny thing is that some people never learn: it's impossible to study properly while messaging, chatting or watching TV. I don't care how talented you are; you can still only give your full attention to one thing at a time.

2. Timing

Some study habits are efficient but take up too much time. My advice is not necessarily to drop the good habit altogether but to try to fit it within a set time frame. This also means you shouldn't be naive and think you can start studying at midnight and study all night. That never works. The usual scenario is that you wake up to find yourself using the book as a pillow.

3. Healthy

Yes, you've got to keep your habits healthy! For instance, alcohol does not improve your memory, nor does it give you an "energy boost" to help you think. In short, keep your study habits healthy, well timed and efficient! For more on building them, read our guide on how to study effectively.