Study Myths That Waste Time (and What to Do Instead)
Many students spend hours preparing for tests and assignments, yet their results do not reflect the effort they put in. The problem is not always a lack of hard work. Often, the problem is relying on study methods that feel productive but do very little to improve memory or understanding.
Let’s look at some of the most common study myths and what students can do instead.
Myth 1: Highlighting is Enough
Many students think that highlighting important sentences in a textbook will help them remember. The truth is that highlighting only makes the page look colorful without improving recall.
What to do instead: Try active recall. After reading a section, close the book and explain the main idea in your own words. You can also make a flashcard with a question on one side and the answer on the other. This forces your brain to practice retrieving information, which is how real learning happens.
Myth 2: Pulling an All Nighter Helps Before Exams
Staying up late the night before a big test feels like dedication, but it often backfires. Lack of sleep makes it harder to concentrate, remember, and think clearly.
What to do instead: Spread your studying across several days in shorter sessions. Review class notes for ten minutes each evening, then do a longer review two days before the test. Finally, get a full night of sleep before exam day so your brain can work at its best.
Myth 3: Multitasking Saves Time
Many students believe they can study while watching videos, scrolling social media, or listening to music. In reality, multitasking divides attention and makes studying take longer.
What to do instead: Focus on one task at a time. Try the Pomodoro method: set a timer for twenty five minutes of focused study, then take a five minute break. After four sessions, give yourself a longer break. This builds focus and keeps energy steady.
Myth 4: Rereading Notes is the Best Way to Review
Rereading notes feels familiar, but it does not push the brain to learn. Students may think they know the material simply because they have seen it often, but this is an illusion of learning.
What to do instead: Test yourself. Cover your notes and try to write down everything you remember. Use practice quizzes, online question banks, or old exams. When you check your answers, you will see what you actually know and what needs more work.
Final Thoughts
The biggest trap in studying is mistaking busy work for real learning. Highlighting, rereading, cramming, and multitasking might feel productive, but they do not prepare students for success. By replacing these myths with research backed strategies like active recall, spaced practice, and focused study sessions, students can study less and remember more.
