Study Habits That Hold You Back (And How to Change Them)
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Good study habits are the key to academic success, but not all habits are beneficial. Some study habits can actually hold you back, making it harder to retain information, stay organised, and perform well in exams. Recognising and changing these habits is essential if you want to improve your productivity and achieve better academic results.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common bad study habits for students, provide bad study habits examples, and share 10 ways to improve your study habits.
Bad Study Habits That Hold You Back
1. Cramming Instead of Consistent Study
Cramming the night before an exam might seem like a good idea, but it leads to short-term memorisation rather than deep understanding. Studies show that information learned in a rush is quickly forgotten.
How to Change It: Use spaced repetition—review your notes regularly over days or weeks rather than all at once. This helps with long-term retention and reduces stress.
2. Studying Without a Plan
Many students sit down to study without a clear plan, leading to wasted time and inefficiency.
How to Change It: Create a study schedule that breaks tasks into manageable sessions, then set goals for each session to stay on track.
3. Multitasking While Studying
Trying to study while texting, watching TV, or, worse, scrolling through social media reduces concentration and comprehension.
How to Change It: Use the Pomodoro Technique—study for 25 minutes with full focus, then take a 5-minute break. Turn off notifications and keep distractions away.
4. Relying on Passive Learning
Simply reading or highlighting notes does not help with understanding and retention. Passive learning is one of the most ineffective study habits.
How to Change It: Engage in active learning by summarising material in your own words, teaching concepts to a friend, or using flashcards to test yourself.
5. Studying in an Unproductive Environment
Your study environment plays a big role in your ability to focus. Studying in bed or in a noisy space can make it harder to concentrate.
How to Change It: Find a quiet, well-lit place to study. Use a desk or table with minimal distractions to create a productive atmosphere.
6. Ignoring Self-Care
Pulling all-nighters, skipping meals, and neglecting exercise can harm both your academic performance and overall well-being.
How to Change It: Prioritise sleep, eat nutritious meals, and incorporate regular physical activity into your routine to keep your brain and body functioning at their best.
7. Procrastinating Until the Last Minute
Procrastination is a major obstacle to effective studying. Leaving work until the last minute leads to stress and rushed assignments.
How to Change It: Break tasks into smaller steps and set deadlines for each part. Use a planner or app to keep track of deadlines and avoid last-minute panic.
8. Relying Solely on Rereading Notes
Simply rereading notes gives the illusion of learning but does not ensure deep understanding.
How to Change It: Test yourself by answering questions, doing practice exercises, and explaining concepts aloud. These strategies enhance active recall and comprehension.
9. Studying for Long Hours Without Breaks
Studying for hours without breaks leads to burnout and decreased efficiency.
How to Change It: Take regular breaks to rest your mind. Short walks, stretching, or brief relaxation exercises can help you recharge and improve focus.
10. Not Seeking Help When Needed
Struggling with difficult concepts but not asking for help can slow down progress and cause frustration.
How to Change It: Reach out to tutors, professors, or study groups for support. There’s no shame in seeking help—it can make a huge difference in understanding challenging subjects.
10 Ways to Improve Your Study Habits
- Create a Study Schedule – Plan study sessions in advance to stay organised.
- Use Active Learning Techniques – Summarise, teach, and test yourself instead of just reading.
- Minimise Distractions – Keep phones and social media away during study time.
- Study in a Dedicated Space – Find a quiet and comfortable spot to focus.
- Take Regular Breaks – Use the Pomodoro Technique to balance study and rest.
- Stay Healthy – Get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise regularly.
- Use a Variety of Study Methods – Try flashcards, mind maps, and practice tests.
- Set Realistic Goals – Break tasks into smaller, achievable steps.
- Stay Consistent – Study regularly rather than cramming before exams.
- Seek Help When Needed – Use tutoring services, join study groups, and ask questions.
Conclusion
Breaking bad study habits and adopting better ones can transform your academic performance. Whether you struggle with procrastination, passive learning, or poor time management, making small changes can lead to big improvements.
