Studying for a test can feel overwhelming, especially when there’s a lot to cover and not enough time to do it. But studying doesn’t have to mean spending endless hours rereading notes or highlighting textbooks. The key is to study smarter, not longer. Research shows that using effective study techniques can help you remember more and feel more confident on test day.

Here are five proven methods that can make a real difference.

#1. Active Recall

Active recall means testing yourself on what you’ve learned instead of just reading it again. The idea is simple: when you pull information out of your memory, you strengthen that memory.

Try closing your notebook and writing down everything you remember about a topic, or use flashcards to quiz yourself. You can also have a friend ask you questions. A 2011 study from Purdue University found that students who used active recall remembered more than those who reread the same material repeatedly.

#2. Spaced Repetition

It’s tempting to cram the night before a test, but your brain learns best over time. Spaced repetition means spreading your study sessions out across several days. Each time you review the material, you wait a little longer before looking at it again. This helps move information from short-term to long-term memory.

Try making a simple study calendar. Review one subject on Monday, another on Tuesday, and then come back to the first one a few days later. Tools like Anki or Quizlet can also help you plan review sessions automatically.

#3. The Pomodoro Technique

The Pomodoro Technique helps you focus without burning out. You set a timer for 25 minutes of focused work, then take a 5-minute break. After four “Pomodoros,” take a longer break of 15–30 minutes.

During your breaks, step away from your desk—stretch, grab a snack, or go outside for a few minutes. This short pause helps your mind recharge so you can stay productive over longer periods. You can even adjust the timing if 25 minutes doesn’t fit your rhythm.

#4. Interleaved Practice

Most students study one subject at a time until they feel they’ve mastered it. Interleaved practice takes a different approach. Instead of focusing on a single topic for a long stretch, you mix different subjects or types of problems together.

For example, if you’re studying math, mix geometry and algebra problems in one session. This method might feel harder at first, but research shows it improves your ability to apply what you’ve learned to new situations. It trains your brain to recognize patterns and think more flexibly.

#5. Teaching What You Learn

One of the best ways to learn something is to explain it to someone else. This is known as the “learning by teaching” method. When you try to teach a topic, you quickly notice the areas you don’t fully understand.

You can do this by forming a small study group or even by pretending to teach an imaginary class. Summarize a topic out loud or write a short “lesson” in your own words. It might feel silly at first, but it’s one of the most effective ways to check your understanding.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of These Techniques

  • Experiment: Everyone learns differently. Try each method and see which ones fit your style best.
  • Stay consistent: A little study time each day is better than one long session once a week.
  • Use breaks wisely: Short breaks help your brain stay focused.
  • Stay positive: Studying can be challenging, but small improvements add up over time.

Learning how to study effectively takes practice, just like any other skill. Start by picking one or two of these techniques and try them before your next test. You might be surprised how much easier it becomes to remember what you’ve learned, and how much more confident you’ll feel walking into the exam room.