Study Skills Every High Schooler Should Master (But Often Don’t)
For many high school students, success isn’t just about what they’re learning — it’s about how. The difference between a student who thrives and one who constantly feels overwhelmed often comes down to study habits and academic strategies.
Unfortunately, most students aren’t explicitly taught how to study effectively. They’re expected to “just figure it out” as the workload increases — especially in honors, AP, or dual-enrollment classes.
At Tutors & Friends, we believe every student should be empowered with a strong set of study tools. Below are the essential study skills we wish every high schooler mastered — and how parents can help them get there.
1. Time Management & Planning
Why it matters:
Time is every student’s most limited resource. Without a system, procrastination and cramming become the norm — leading to stress and lower performance.
Tips to help:
Use a planner or digital calendar (we love Google Calendar)
Block out study time before social activities or sports
Break large assignments into smaller pieces with deadlines
Use the Pomodoro Technique: 25 min focus, 5 min break
2. Effective Note-Taking
Why it matters:
Notes aren’t just for copying from the board — they’re a student’s personal study guide. But if they’re messy or incomplete, they won’t help much during review.
Tips to help:
Try structured systems like Cornell Notes or Outlining
Review and rewrite notes within 24 hours
Add color-coding or visuals (especially for science/math)
Teach students to jot why something matters, not just what it is
3. Spaced Repetition
Why it matters:
Most students study the night before a test, then forget everything a week later. Spaced repetition fights this forgetfulness and builds true long-term retention.
Tips to help:
Review content regularly over time (not all at once)
Use tools like Anki, Quizlet, or handwritten flashcards
Make a weekly review session part of their routine
4. Task Prioritization
Why it matters:
Many students spend too much time on the “easy” work and avoid the hard stuff — which leads to last-minute panic.
Tips to help:
Make a daily to-do list with 3 “Must Do” tasks
Tackle the hardest task first (called “eating the frog”)
Color-code tasks by urgency or impact
5. Self-Awareness & Goal Setting
Why it matters:
Great students aren’t perfect — they reflect, adjust, and take ownership of their learning.
Tips to help:
At the start of the week, ask: “What are your academic goals this week?”
At the end of the week, ask: “What worked well? What didn’t?”
Encourage students to advocate for themselves by emailing teachers or asking for help early
Final Thoughts
Good study habits don’t come naturally to most students — but they can absolutely be learned. Mastering these skills in high school sets students up for smoother college transitions and a lifetime of academic (and career) success.
At Tutors & Friends, we work with students to not only understand the material — but also to learn how to learn. If your student needs help building better habits, we’re here to help.
