Effective Learning: 10 Tips and Methods for Successful Learning

Written by: Helene Ausserwöger, 28.11.2024

You never stop learning – an old saying that is especially true for students. The ability to efficiently absorb information and apply it later is key to your success. But how do you learn effectively, and which method is most suitable for you?

Effective Learning does not imply hitting the books for hours and mindlessly memorising facts. Instead, it’s about using the right methods and strategies to build your knowledge faster, more sustainably, and without stress. This way, you are saving valuable time, achieve better results and retain information for the long term.

Are you still unsatisfied with your studying method? No worries – here are 10 tips to help you learn more effectively!

“If knowledge is power, then learning is a superpower.” – Jim Kwik

Table of Content:

Effective Learning: The Fundamentals of Efficient Learning
Our 10 Tips fo Effective Learning
Other Effective Learning Methods for Successful Learning
Conclusion: How to Become an Effective Learner

Effective Learning: The Fundamentals of Efficient Learning

Effective learning means absorbing information purposefully and being able to approach exams with confidence. It is not just about getting the best grades, but about individual development and building up knowledge long-term.

So what defines effective learning? A good time management, suitable learning methods and an individual learning rhythm are essential. And remember: Everyone learns differently! Maybe you are a visual learner, who thrives with charts and diagrams or maybe you are the auditive type and excel in listening. Most of us are a mix of types.

Oftentimes common mistakes can hinder your learning success. Unstructured study sessions, distractions, or methods that don’t match your learning style can all be avoided. By mastering the right basics, you can optimise your learning process and have a stress-free breakthrough.

Our 10 Tips for Effective Learning

Effective learning starts with the right mindset and a clear goal in sight. Why did you decide to pursue this particular degree? Maybe you had an initial vision for your future, one that got lost during the hustle of daily life. Take a moment and remember your Why – remember the goal that motivated you to start in the first place.

When you have a clear focus, you’ll not only learn more efficiently but also with greater enjoyment. That’s exactly what we want to help you achieve with our 10 practical tips!

1. Set Up a Quiet Study Space

The right study space can make all the difference when it comes to learning effectively. Do you prefer studying alone, or do you memorise content better when revising with other students? Maybe you find peace and focus in the library, or feel most comfortable at your desk at home. For some, the local café is the perfect spot to concentrate.

Discover early on where you can focus best and what distracts you. The right environment not only creates an optimal learning atmosphere but also helps you use your time productively.

STUWO Tip: If you enjoy studying in cafés, we’ve compiled a list of the best study-friendly spots in Vienna, Linz, and Graz just for you!

Find the ideal study space for you - only then can you be most productive! ©Adobe Stock

2. Make the Most of Your Peak Study Times

Not everyone is equally productive at all hours of the day – this is where your personal biorhythm plays a key role. Some people are most focused in the morning, able to perform at their best right after waking up. Others only get into the study flow in the evening. The key is identifying your most productive phases and scheduling your study sessions accordingly. This way, you can maximise both your concentration and efficiency.

But don’t forget: sleep is essential! If you’re a night owl who enjoys studying late, it’s even more important that you’re getting enough rest and don’t jump straight back into work the next morning.

3. Get Organised: Planning is Half the Battle

Exam season, and suddenly the day doesn’t have enough hours? To avoid this nightmare scenario, it’s recommended to start studying early or, ideally, to keep up with the material consistently. Give yourself enough time so that unforeseen events don’t throw off your plans!

Create a study plan: Ideally, right at the beginning of the semester. Note down all exam dates and schedule enough study time in advance.
Set specific study goals: Instead of just planning to “study,” define clear goals. This way, you stay motivated and can easily track your progress.
Structure your study sessions: Use fixed time blocks for focused studying and plan breaks. This keeps your mind fresh and receptive.
Plan buffers: One or two buffer days before the exam help you stay calm in case of unexpected events or unresolved topics.

Here are more tips for perfect exam preparation!

4. Stop Overthinking: How to Focus Better

If you come across something you don’t know while studying, look it up immediately! Instead of wasting time struggling to find an answer that might not come to you, you can close the knowledge gap right away. Overthinking often leads to storing the “error message” instead of the latest information.

Also, remember: phrases like “I’ll never understand this,” “None of this makes sense,” or “I’m just not smart enough” have no place in your vocabulary! It’s perfectly fine to start from scratch – after all, no one is born a master. Instead of focusing on what you don’t know, concentrate on what you’re currently working on and what you’ve already learned.

5. Incorporate Variety: Keep Your Studying Interesting

Studying doesn’t have to be monotonous – on the contrary, variety can help you understand and retain content better. Here are some tips to add diversity to your study routine:

Try different methods: Visualise content with diagrams or mind maps, read and summarise, discuss with others, or say material out loud – find out what works best for you.
Break content into small units: Instead of spending hours on one topic, switch between different subjects or methods. This keeps you motivated and refreshed.
Use scenarios and examples: Theoretical knowledge sticks better when linked to practical examples. Create your own scenarios or think of real-world applications.
Adapt methods to your preferences: Whether it’s videos, podcasts, or traditional notes, use tools and media that you enjoy and that support your learning style.

Variety not only adds new energy to your study sessions but also helps you view material from different angles, making it easier to internalise.

6. Avoid Multitasking

When it comes to studying, the rule is: one task at a time. Multitasking may seem productive, but it often means no task gets your full attention, which can hinder your learning success.

To truly focus, eliminate distractions like social media or apps. A quick “just checking” can easily turn into a deep dive into TikTok, and your study time is gone. It’s best to put your phone on airplane mode and save the new posts or likes for your breaks.

Additionally, concentration exercises such as breathing techniques or short meditations can help sharpen your focus. Most importantly, plan uninterrupted study sessions where you can work without distractions. This way, you achieve maximum learning success and still have time for other activities afterward.

7. Test Yourself: Use Practice Tests and Past Exams

Practice tests and past exam questions are valuable tools to prepare effectively for exams. Some professors provide practice tests that you should definitely use. They help you familiarise yourself with the exam format and develop a sense of the structure.

Many degree programs also have online platforms where students exchange exam questions. You’re unlikely to find the exact questions and answers for your exam, but these platforms can give you a good idea of the topics that are frequently covered.

Regular self-testing is also helpful. Work through past exam questions or practice exercises to assess your knowledge. This allows you to identify weaknesses and knowledge gaps early on and address them in time.

Breaks are important - especially during the most intense exam periods! ©Adobe Stock

8. Allow Yourself Active Study Breaks

It’s important to remember that humans, and especially our brains, need breaks! Whether it’s to clear your head, consolidate what you’ve learned, or simply to stay sane during exam season, breaks are essential.

After 25 to 45 minutes of focused studying, take a short break, and after two hours, allow yourself about 20 minutes. If you’ve been studying for four hours straight, give yourself a longer break of one to two hours to fully recharge.

Use your breaks actively: go for a walk, exercise, take care of daily tasks like cooking or shopping, or meet a friend for coffee. Relaxation techniques like meditation or breathing exercises can also help calm your mind and clear your head – here are a few tips for that.

Breaks not only boost your performance but also positively impact your social connections and overall well-being. During your non-study time, make sure to fuel your body with brain food – healthy nutrition supports both your concentration and your overall health.

Here are more tips on how to plan your study breaks effectively!

9. Stay Active: Regular Movement Boosts Learning

Hours of sitting, staring at a screen or study materials – not only is it tiring for your eyes, but it also takes a toll on your body. You’ve probably experienced tension and fatigue after long study sessions. Regular physical activity, however, can work wonders!

Exercise boosts blood circulation, improving your concentration and learning ability. Even short movement breaks of 5–10 minutes between study sessions can help you feel refreshed and more focused.

Whether it’s a walk in the fresh air, a yoga session to counteract long periods of sitting, or an intense workout at the gym – find an activity you enjoy that clears your mind. Why not plan exercise as a reward after studying? It’s a great way to stay motivated and start your day with a positive mindset.

Bonus Tip: Movement can be especially helpful when memorising. So if your housemates wonder why you’ve been pacing around the flat for days, just tell them: “It’s for science!”

10. Find the Best Study Method for You

Learning is not a “one-size-fits-all” program. There are different types of learners, and therefore, different ways to learn. Before you start reading through your study materials 20 times, you should find out how you learn best.

Do you remember new information quickest by listening, watching videos, or explaining things to others?

The most common learning types are:

Auditory: Lectures don’t bother you because you learn best by listening!
Visual: Is “The Simple Club” your favourite YouTube channel because it explains complex topics with short videos? You learn best by seeing, reading, or watching films!
Kinaesthetic: Instructions, lectures, and abstract ideas don’t work for you? You learn best by getting hands-on and trying things out for yourself to understand how they work.
Dialogic: You learn best through interaction with others! Discussions, study groups, or explaining concepts to others help you process and better understand what you’ve learned.

Other Effective Learning Methods for Successful Learning

Learning effectively goes beyond just applying the right techniques; it’s about keeping the process dynamic, engaging, and flexible. Here are some proven methods to help you solidify your knowledge and retain it long-term:

1. Better Understanding

Feynman Technique: Explain what you’ve learned in such simple terms that even a layperson could understand it. By putting complex ideas into your own words, you reveal gaps in your knowledge and can address them directly.
Immediate Recaps: At the end of each study session, take a few minutes to summarise the key points. This helps anchor what you’ve learned and makes it easier to recall later.

2. Sustainable Learning

Spacing Effect: Spread your learning out over time and revisit the material at intervals to reinforce retention.
Interleaving: Instead of focusing on one topic for hours, switch between different topics regularly to improve comprehension and adaptability.

3. Self-Monitoring

Active Recall: Test yourself without looking at your materials. Answering questions or explaining topics out loud strengthens your memory and ensures that you mastered the content.
Pomodoro Technique: Study in focused intervals with short breaks in between – a highly effective and motivating strategy.

4. Collaborative Learning

Study Groups: Interacting with others can provide new insights and deepen your understanding of the material.
Tutorials: University tutorials can help clarify difficult concepts. Attending them often leads to getting valuable tips for success.

Conclusion: How to Become an Effective Learner

Effective learning involves utilising your strengths, establishing a clear structure, and approaching the process with a positive mindset. Choose an environment that suits you best, make the most of your most productive times, and focus on the methods that work for you. Additionally, variety, regular physical activity, and active breaks can help you stay focused and reduce stress.

If exam anxiety is also a challenge for you, we’ve got some extra tips to help here! We wish you great success in learning effectively!

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