Studying is hard sometimes and we need help. Here are some friendly tips to make studying easier: 

1. Ask 

Asking for help is one of the easiest ways to get started with your studying. Going tutoring after school also helps. Email your counselor or your teacher for more information.  

2.Videos

Watching videos is the best way to learn on your own. Find a bunch of fun videos on a subject you have trouble with and put them into a playlist. In my opinion, I love putting Crash Course videos on because it helps me a ton.

3. Websites and Apps

There are a ton of website and apps to use, such as:

• Quizlet– This is very popular. It has flash cards, quick tests & quizzes, Games, and it’s free(if you want extra options, you can pay a subscription monthly). You can also make your own or use other sets people have created. 
• Flora– This is an app to download on your phone. This app actually keeps you off of your phone. Their whole purpose is to grow a tree, and if you are on your phone you are slowly killing it. You can even put money into the app to keep completely focused if you don’t want to lose your money.
• Kahoot– This one is another popular one. Known for their fun quizzes that your classes would take before a big test or quiz. 
• Duolingo– If you need help with language class, this is for you. Duolingo takes the time to help you learn a language. Using this helps you to study and even learn at a faster pace.
• Socratic– This app is a game changer when it comes to History class. I know it’s a struggle when it comes to learning and memorizing dates, events, ect. This app has it all from Normal U.S history and government to World history and geography.

4.  Making a schedule

Keep clean and organized while studying (ex. Studying for 30 minutes with a 10 minute break, then moving on to the next subject). You can make it anyway you want to help you be productive. “Creating a study plan allows you to see how you spend your time, and ensures that you are setting aside enough time outside of class to complete homework assignments, study for tests, and review and retain the information you are learning.”-Intelligent

5.  Music 

This depends on the music you listen to. Music can keep you focused, but can also distract you. You’re probably wondering how this makes sense. Back in 2019, the University of Wollongong Australian has something to say on the topic. “In a nutshell, music puts us in a better mood, which makes us better at studying – but it also distracts us, which makes us worse at studying. So if you want to study effectively with music, you want to reduce how distracting music can be, and increase the level to which the music keeps you in a good mood.” To sum it up, listen to more calm music, rather than you favorite pop song.

6. Sleep

Studies have shown that sleep helps with learning and memory. According to the Division of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School, there are two way this works. “First, a sleep-deprived person cannot focus attention optimally and therefore cannot learn efficiently. Second, sleep itself has a role in the consolidation of memory, which is essential for learning new information.” Sleeping enhances your studying memory and it will lead to better recall.  A good nap for 10-20 mins will work just fine.

I hope these study tips help and remember to work smarter, not harder!