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You have been trying to study for your Physics exam but are unable to move beyond the first chapter. You get nightmares about your upcoming exam and procrastination has become your new best friend.

Let’s face it – you have been binge watching shows on Netflix when you should actually be studying for the dreaded exam. So, how do you supercharge your motivation and hit the books?

Here are six smart hacks to help you get motivated to study.

1. Prioritize Well

“Research shows that scheduling when and where you’ll do something makes it dramatically more likely that the task will get done.”  – Steven Covey

This quote holds so much relevance when it comes to study habits too.

As a college student, you are likely to be managing multiple tasks such as projects, assignments, and internships and to add to it, when you have an exam to study for, it can get overwhelming.

Do you know what can make your life easier? Prioritizing your tasks well.

Divide your tasks into urgent and important. Tasks that require immediate attention go under ‘urgent’ and those that are related to your long-term goals go under ‘important’.

An upcoming exam is certainly urgent and important. So, make sure you tackle it first before going on to the others. Prioritizing well will make you feel more in control and ensure the important and urgent tasks are tackled first when you’re alert and focused.

2. Implement the Pomodoro Technique

If you find it difficult to focus on one thing at a time, then this is the right technique for you.

Instead of feeling like you are bored to death after studying continuously for one hour, try to use the Pomodoro technique to beat procrastination.

Unlike its name, the technique is quite easy to follow. All you need to do is split your work into 25 minutes and allow yourself a rest time of 5 minutes.

By doing this, you not only get closer to finishing your syllabus but also manage to give yourself the respite you want without getting distracted.

3. Use Memory Aids

With the increasing use of technology, our memory is no longer as sharp as it should be. While studying, try using different techniques like flashcards, handwritten notes, and mnemonic devices to boost your memory. This will help you remember what you study with ease.

It’s also a good idea to record study notes in your own voice and listen to them on the go. This will help you to revise effectively and make better use of your time.

4. Download Study Apps

Whether you’re too distracted to study or not motivated to finish an assignment, study apps always manage to come to the rescue.

So, download study apps such as Quizlet, StudyBlue, SimpleMind and Exam Countdown Lite among others to help you study efficiently. From helping you create mind maps and planning your study schedule to keeping you focused and productive – there is an app for every requirement.

5. Teach Others What You’ve Learned

Do you know that you learn better when you teach? It’s possibly one of the best ways to understand a concept.

When you explain a concept to someone, you develop a deeper understanding of what you’ve learned. This kind of learning lasts longer because it goes beyond rote learning and studying for short-term gains.

So, the next time you’re struggling to study, ask your friend to be your study buddy and you’re likely to be more invested in the process.

6. Create Handwritten Notes

Notes are an essential part of your study routine and if you want to remember something, writing it down is highly recommended.

Handwritten notes are more helpful because when you write, your brain is more active, thereby enhancing the learning process. While handwritten notes are not as quick as typing, they help you retain what you’ve learned better. So, take out the traditional pen and paper and start making notes as you study.


So yes, there will be times when you’ll find it hard to remain focused and finish your exam syllabus but implementing these six smart study hacks is sure to help you concentrate better, be more productive and find the motivation to study.