Habits of Highly Effective Students and How to Develop Them for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Study habits of highly effective students are smart, not hard. School is already the biggest source of stress among students. (Fuligni et al., 2014) Add to that having to study hard outside of school hours, and students are bound to get frustrated. Study habits, therefore, need to be smartly planned.

Students who use approximately four active strategies and spend about half of their study time using these perform positively in exams. The same study proved that how early a student would start studying does not relate to their performance in coming exams. (Walck-Shannon et al., 2021)  As such, students’ study habits should be effective. Here are several habits of effective students and a guide on how to develop study habits for your success.

Habits of Highly Effective Students Table of Contents

1. 8 Study Habits of Highly Effective Students
2. Other Habits of Highly Effective Students
3. How Are Digital Tools Transforming Study Habits?
4. Study Habits as Predictors of Academic Performance and Human Growth
5. How Can I Measure the Effectiveness of My Study Habits?
6. How to Develop Effective Study Habits
7. How can digital learning platforms support adaptive study habits?
8. How Does Degree Selection Influence Study Habits?
9. How does physical and mental well-being impact study habits and academic performance?
10. The Role of Career Goals in Shaping Study Habits
11. Do Accelerated Degree Programs Demand a Unique Set of Study Habits?
12. How Can Academic Support Services Enhance Study Habits?
13. How Can Expert Guidance Enhance Study Habits?

8 Study Habits of Highly Effective Students

Study habits are the most important predictors of academic performance. Students must learn and apply study skills to organize and learn a large amount of information. Evidence suggests that those who lack study strategy knowledge do not achieve effective and stable learning, and, thus, do not perform well academically. (Jafari et al., 2019) In other words, higher achievers use these skills more than lower achievers.

In Bin Abdulrahman et al.’s (2021) study of medical students, the top study habits are managing time effectively, getting rid of interruptions, setting goals to prioritize activities, setting daily study between three and four hours, studying alone for knowledge retention, learning from multiple sources, contributing to the teaching of peers, studying main lecture slides with notes when no exam is coming, and studying lecture slides with notes and previous exam questions when preparing for upcoming exams. These findings are said to expand to the general study practices and expand to inspire other students.

Here are study habits typically observed of highly effective students.

Time Management

Students are prone to setting objectives and priorities but lack the time management skills to achieve them efficiently. Also, they procrastinate on tasks they dislike yet must complete. However, effective time management is linked to better academic success, and there is a substantial correlation between students’ perceived control of their time and their cumulative grade point average. (Adams & Blair, 2019)

Apart from being able to study efficiently, students can make sure they have enough personal time for recreation if they learn to manage their time.

Removing Distractions

Everyone is distracted, perhaps by TV, phones, or peers. Even too much quiet could be distracting. Such distractions cause students to lose focus, thus making learning ineffective. According to Walck-Shannon et al. (2021), students reported being distracted about 20% of their study time on average. Such distraction negatively predicted exam performance.

Finding the right place for studying is important. Some students prefer complete silence like in a library, while others study better with some background noise like in a study hall or in their rooms with low-volume music. Whichever kind of place students find fitting, the important thing is they find a place where they can study most comfortably with nothing to distract them.

Setting Goals

Students are effectively studying when they set goals to determine the activities most important for them since they know what to accomplish at a set time. (Bin Abdulrahman et al., 2021) It is therefore vital to set goals like what to accomplish in an hour or in a week for a specific course, and these goals should build towards their overall academic aim, like raising their GPA.

Of course, goals should be realistic. Take note that effective students avoid generalizations in their goals like “study math"  at specific regular hours. Instead, they plan to complete tasks like answering 10 problems or reading and taking notes on chapter X of Algebra. They also treat their review or study schedule as they would their classes: they would not miss it unless they are sick or have an emergency. As such, they are sure they reach their goals as per schedule.

Setting Time and Distributing Work to Shorter Periods

Effective students rarely squeeze everything into one or two sessions. Studying consistently and for shorter amounts of time would be ideal. Besides, a Time.com study found that students who cram for exams usually only pass with an average score. Also, most of the material learned through cramming sessions is forgotten not only over time but even during the test itself. (Gibson, 2011)

Typically, three to four hours of study in a day is enough for effective students. (Bin Abdulrahman et al., 2021)  This could be a straight three hours with one hour allocated to one course, or it could be split into smaller chunks of time like an hour and a half during the daytime and another hour and a half in the afternoon, whichever school schedules would allow. What matters is that there is a set time with distributed work.

Knowing When to Study Alone

Studying alone helps students to memorize information by reviewing and reciting, for example, terminologies and definitions. A spaced review would help in doing so. Effective students schedule a day a week to review alone the work for each of their courses and make sure these tasks are updated. About 10 to 20 minutes per course would be enough.

While studying alone, students could use various learning strategies like mind-mapping or using mnemonic devices to recall information easily.

Taking Advantage of Group Study

Of course, while studying alone helps students to memorize information, learning with peers or teaching them could help students understand concepts better. Naturally, when teaching concepts to others, students must understand the concepts first.

Meanwhile, attending a group study builds a more holistic view of concepts as well. (Bin Abdulrahman et al., 2021)  As students exchange information, they gather ideas or perceptions that may differ from theirs. As such, they get to look at concepts from different angles, allowing them to have a deeper comprehension.

Learning from Multiple Sources

Effective learners do not rely solely on required readings for class. They typically search for other sources to find out any more about lessons (Bin Abdulrahman et al., 2021), be those supporting ideas or contradictions. This attempt to look for other sources not only deepens students’ understanding of topics but also strengthens their research abilities.

Keeping Notes Organized

Effective students keep organized notes about their lectures and assignments, thus allowing for the efficient review of lessons. Effective students take key ideas from a lesson and write these down in their own words.

Notes are also helpful in preparing for exams. Taking notes while reviewing main lecture slides even when no exam is coming helps students retain information in their long-term memory. Meanwhile, reviewing lecture slides with their notes and previous exam questions to prepare for upcoming exams helps them extract information from their long-term memory and be refreshed before the exam.  (Bin Abdulrahman et al., 2021)

Other Habits of Highly Effective Students

Effective students are not just all about studying. They have other habits that may be outside of school or learning but still prove to be useful in their successful studies. Here are some habits worth developing.

1. Listing top priorities for the day. It is easy to ignore and put off crucial duties without a list to keep track of activities. A to-do list helps students attend to crucial tasks, even those unrelated to school.
2. Reading regularly. Creating a habit of reading helps students not only to learn more but also lowers the chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Ideally, one should read daily like a chapter or two of a novel.
3. Looking for constant improvement. Effective students always seek to improve themselves. In this way, they grow as they learn. Looking for something new to learn is one way to do this.
4. Asking questions and seeking help. Effective students know when they need help. As such, they ask questions when they do not know something or ask for help, especially when they are stuck.
5. Using calendars and setting alarms. A calendar helps students plan and stay organized. Effective students do not merely put school deadlines in their calendars; they include other activities like personal affairs, allowing them to create balance in handling their responsibilities. Setting alarms, even through phone calendar notifications, helps students stay on track of what they should do.
6. Arriving five minutes early for appointments. It is never a good idea to be late. Arriving at least five minutes early for an appointment reduces tension and shows the other person how much a student value the appointment.
7. Relaxing and sleeping adequately. Exhaustion hardly breeds success. Taking about two minutes of focused deep breathing every now and then is vital to relax the mind and body and focus better. Of course, adequate sleep is vital in relieving stress. Setting a fixed time for getting up and going to bed every day helps students stay energized since erratic sleep can cause the body to tire easily.
8. Spending five minutes under the sun. Staying cooped up in a room for long hours or worse, for days, could be bad for the health, both mentally and physically. A few minutes of sunshine helps uplift one’s spirit.
9. Spending time with like-minded people. Students who spend time with people with interests same as theirs get the opportunity to share their ideas and learn new ones as well.
10. Eating and drinking water regularly. Food and water are important. Some students tend to forget to eat, especially drink water, when they are too focused on their studies. Consequently, they lose energy and become dehydrated, making it even more difficult to focus and think. To keep up with their studies, students should eat properly and drink water regularly.
11. Exercising. The body does not need long hours of workouts. Even a 15-minute exercise will do just to keep the muscles stronger. Mountains of studies have proved that exercise also helps build up energy and prevents illnesses.
12. Rewarding oneself. More than recognition from others, students should know when to recognize themselves for a job well done. A simple reward like good food or a new bag would help students stay motivated. On the same note, setting a punishment for oneself could help them become accountable for their actions.
13. Finding motivation. Motivation could come from different things. Some students are easily motivated by quotes, so they have sticky notes on their books or computer screens to stay motivated. Others set up photos of their loved ones where they can easily see them and stay motivated.
14. Showing gratitude. Recognizing and thanking others for their help is a worthwhile habit since it allows for building and strengthening relationships with others. Listing things or people they are thankful for is one way for students to start this.
15. Taking time to talk to loved ones. Friends and families are students’ support systems. Talking to them regularly not only helps keep the bond strong but also shows them how students appreciate the support.

How Are Digital Tools Transforming Study Habits?

The advent of digital tools is reshaping study practices by providing tailored resources and facilitating efficient information retrieval. Students now leverage mobile applications, online libraries, and interactive platforms to reinforce understanding, track progress, and organize study schedules in real time. Digital solutions also offer analytics-driven insights, enabling learners to pinpoint areas that need improvement while avoiding redundant efforts. Additionally, integrating educational technology promotes proactive time management and complements traditional study methods without replacing the benefits of face-to-face interactions. For students exploring alternative academic pathways, resources on easy associate degrees illustrate how digital learning environments can support both foundational studies and career advancement.

Study Habits as Predictors of Academic Performance and Human Growth

General intelligence and study habits are significant predictors of academic achievement, and  60% of the variability of academic achievement can be explained by IQ, short-term memory, and study habits. (Quilez-Robres et al., 2021)

In the study “Intelligence quotient, short-term memory, and study habits as academic achievement predictors of elementary school: A follow-up study" published in Studies in Educational Evaluation, the findings of Quilez-Robres et al. (2021) show that “The use of study habits has positive effects on academic achievement, thus indicating that to learn adequately, one needs to develop a methodology or study habits."

Even at the college level, Quilez-Robres et al. (2021) found that “Habits and study skill measures are the most important predictors of academic achievement when IQ is not evaluated." As such, it is vital for students to develop effective study habits to succeed in their studies.

Besides, studying and reading are important indicators of human growth in terms of potential abilities to live a perfect life and avoid one-dimensional thinking. For a healthy and developed society, students must be encouraged to form effective study habits. (Bahrami et al., 2011)

How Can I Measure the Effectiveness of My Study Habits?

Evaluating study habits is crucial to ensure academic strategies are driving desired outcomes. Students can monitor effectiveness by tracking progress through practice assessments, maintaining detailed study logs, and correlating scheduled study sessions with improvements in test performance. Implementing periodic self-assessments and leveraging digital tracking tools can reveal areas for adjustment and growth. Additionally, comparing personal progress with external academic and career benchmarks, such as the insights provided by associate degree vs bachelor degree salary, supports a data-driven approach to long-term success.

How to Develop Effective Study Habits

Developing effective study habits need not be difficult. Still, it requires patience as it takes time for certain activities to become a habit. Here are some ways on how students can start building their study habits.

Setting Goals

A goal is a desired outcome. The two types of goals are short-term and long-term goals. A short-term goal is something a person wants to achieve in a short time, like finishing homework within a day. Meanwhile, a long-term goal is something a person wants to achieve at a later date, like getting a specific GPA.

Setting goals helps students determine what they must accomplish first. The goals must be clear and specific; otherwise, the student could lose direction and focus. Writing down goals would help in keeping track of them.

Students must write down SMART Goals, originally suggested by George Doran, Arthur Miller, and James Cunningham in 1981, but have been tweaked by several experts, including businessman Paul J. Meyers. For this discussion, consider the goal “I will gather 20 dissertations online to complete my references by January 30." Here is a breakdown of this sample goal.

• Specific: A goal should have the five Ws. In the example, there are the Who (I), What (gather dissertations), Why (complete references), Where (online), and Which (resources: dissertations; online).
• Measurable: Students should have a measure to track their progress and completion of a task. The sample clearly mentions 20 references; thus, it is easy to check if the goal is completed.
• Attainable: A goal should be achievable given the tools available. The internet is a widely used tool with many sites offering access to research, so gathering 20 dissertations would be an attainable goal.
• Realistic: A goal should be something that can be realistically achieved. Given the number of people involved, is the task at hand doable? In the example above, assuming there are four weeks until the set deadline (January 30), given only one person (I) to gather 20 dissertations from online sources would be realistic.
• Time-bound: There should be a target date of when the goal should be completed. In the example, that is January 30.

Setting SMART goals helps students stay on track without overexerting themselves.

Managing Time

Managing time is vital for students not only to stay on track but also to avoid stress. Stetson University lists how students can plan a better study schedule.

1. Schedule balanced activities (i.e., eating, classes, sleep, church, work, etc.). Effective students make sure they can attend to their responsibilities accordingly.
2. Allocate enough time for studying each subject. Effective students multiply the credit load by three to get an idea of the time they must provide for each subject on top of the time spent in class.
3. Set a fixed time to study in a consistent place. Establishing a habit of what, when, and where to study saves students a lot of time deciding and retracing what to do.
4. Study right after class as much as possible. An hour of study or review after class helps students in understanding and remembering lessons better. Answers would also be accurate if assignments are done while lessons are still fresh in the memory.
5. Use odd hours of the day to study. Using the scattered one to two hours of free periods between classes for studying for the previous or next classes helps students get more free time for recreation and other activities at other times of the week like weekends. Stetson University notes how studies show that what students can accomplish in an hour during the day could take an hour and a half at nighttime.
6. Limit study time to no more than two hours on any one course at a time. Concentration tends to drop after an hour or two of study. Effective students take breaks and switch courses to study to keep the mind fresh and active.
7. Trade time; do not steal it. In cases when unexpected events will take time off studying, students must adjust schedules to make up for the missed time.
8. Leave unscheduled time for flexibility. The lack of flexibility primarily leads students to miss their schedules. Adding a little flexibility would help in reducing frustrations and disappointments.

Sticking to a schedule until such time that study activities become natural or parts of the routine would help students build effective study habits.

Understanding Types of Learners

Every student has a unique learning style. Some students may learn better when reading, others by looking at diagrams, and some learn best by doing or applying concepts. If students determine their learning style, they can create a more effective study habit since they understand what works best for them.

Individualized learning styles were first introduced in the 1970s and have since shaped education. The VARK model by Neil Fleming is a widely used framework today. Visual, auditory, reading-writing, and kinesthetic are Fleming’s proposed learning styles.

Visual Learners

Visual learners are those who learn information better if presented in visual form than in words. They prefer looking at graphic displays like charts or diagrams and even videos than reading text.

Students who are visual learners would study better when they visualize what they study, like drawing pictures or diagrams while sitting in lectures or using colored markers on their books or notes when reviewing. They could reinforce learning by watching videos.

Auditory Learners

Aural or auditory learners prefer listening to reading or looking at visuals. They benefit most from lectures and tend to remember lessons easily.

Auditory learners learn better by listening to lectures, reading aloud, or recording texts from books for later use in reviewing. Participating in class discussions and talking over ideas with other students is another ideal way for them to learn. Listening to audio tapes of a topic helps reinforce their learning.

Reading and Writing Learners

Reading and writing learners prefer texts to images and sounds. Studying alone is often more effective for such learners as they can just read books and take notes independently, and they will be able to remember information.

Students who are reading and writing learners should best write down notes while listening to lectures or copy notes from slides or boards to review at a later time. Reading reference books reinforces their learning best.

Kinesthetic Learners

Kinesthetic learners are hands-on learners. They understand concepts better when they apply them. These learners are in their best elements typically when doing lab or fieldwork.

The more effective study habit for students who are kinesthetic learners would be to stand and move around once in a while when studying. Taking frequent breaks is vital to them. Writing things down as they are reviewing would also be helpful. Doing drills or experiments reinforce their learning.

Methods of Study

There are a variety of study methods that have been developed based on research in cognitive psychology. The SQ3R, one of the most popular methods, is related to getting the most out of textbooks. Reading is challenging to many students, and the SQ3R has been known to show improvement in students` reading comprehension and is therefore recommended for teachers to use. (Biringkanae, 2018) Here is how students can use the SQ3R when they have reading tasks:

• Survey: Students should skim or read the outlines or chapter headings first instead of going straight to reading.
• Question: Students then formulate questions that they think the reading material would cover.
• Read: Students proceed to read the material carefully and actively, attempting to answer the questions they have formulated.
• Recite: Students must then say aloud, ideally in their own words, what they have read, attempting to answer questions that are at the end of the reading material if there are any.
• Review: Students must finally go back over to what they have learned using a study guide, the questions they formulated, the questions at the end of the chapter, or the chapter summaries.

Over time, however, several derivatives of SQ3R have emerged. Among these are the following:

• SQ4R: Survey, Question, Read, Reflect/Record (write a journal), Recite, and Review.
• PQ4R: Preview (similar to survey), Question, Read, Reflect, Recite, and Review

For younger learners, the KWL (Know, What, Learn) is typically used. Parents who want to instill a study habit in their kids may use this. They simply have to make a table with three columns for Know, What, and Learn, and under each column heading, the child must write the following accordingly:

• Know: What does the child know about the topic or what does he or she know about the objective of learning this topic?
• What: What does the child want to learn from the given topic?
• Learn: What has the child learned after reading material or listening to a topic?

A derivative of the KWL is KWHL (Know, What, How, Learn). It only has the added ‘How’ column, under which the child must write what he or she thinks can be done to learn more about the topic or skill.

How can digital learning platforms support adaptive study habits?

Digital learning platforms offer personalized study experiences by integrating interactive modules, adaptive assessments, and real‐time feedback. These systems track progress to help learners identify strengths and areas in need of improvement, enhancing both focus and information retention. By aligning with individual learning styles and flexible schedules, modern digital tools enable precise adjustment of study techniques to meet academic demands. Exploring innovative formats, such as accelerated bachelor degree programs online, can further empower students to master complex subjects and achieve sustained academic growth.

How Does Degree Selection Influence Study Habits?

Degree selection plays a crucial role in shaping study habits by aligning academic demands with individual learning styles and personal circumstances. Choosing a program that matches one’s preferred pace and level of academic intensity can allow for deliberate development of effective study strategies. Programs that are less academically rigorous—such as the easiest degree to get—can offer an environment where students refine time management, seek collaborative learning opportunities, and integrate digital tools without excessive pressure. This balance not only sustains motivation and personal well-being but also lays the foundation for academic success and long-term professional growth.

How does physical and mental well-being impact study habits and academic performance?

Physical and mental well-being play a crucial role in shaping effective study habits and academic success. While much focus is placed on study techniques and time management, a student’s overall health can significantly impact their ability to absorb and retain information, maintain focus, and stay motivated. Below are key factors that highlight the relationship between well-being and academic performance:

• Adequate Sleep: Research shows that students who consistently get enough sleep perform better academically. Sleep helps consolidate memory and enhances focus. Sleep deprivation, on the other hand, leads to poor concentration, reduced problem-solving abilities, and increased stress.
• Regular Exercise: Physical activity has been linked to improved cognitive function and mental clarity. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, improving memory and thinking skills. Even short, regular workouts can reduce anxiety and help students feel more energized during study sessions.
• Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in nutrients helps the brain function optimally. Foods high in antioxidants, vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids can improve memory and concentration. Staying hydrated is equally important, as dehydration can lead to fatigue and difficulty focusing.
• Stress Management: Managing stress is essential for maintaining effective study habits. Students under chronic stress may struggle to retain information or concentrate during study sessions. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, can help reduce stress levels and improve mental clarity.
• Mental Health Support: Students who prioritize their mental health, whether through counseling, self-care, or social support, are more likely to maintain focus and motivation. Poor mental health, including anxiety or depression, can severely affect academic performance.

The Role of Career Goals in Shaping Study Habits

Aligning study habits with future career aspirations is a strategy often overlooked by students but could significantly enhance academic outcomes. Students who identify clear career goals tend to study more purposefully as they are driven by a broader vision beyond grades. For example, if a student aspires to enter fields that require specialized certifications, such as information technology or healthcare, their study habits might include dedicating additional time to core subjects or acquiring supplementary skills such as coding or data analysis.

Moreover, effective study habits can guide students toward obtaining qualifications that lead to lucrative career opportunities. Programs like the highest paying certificate jobs offer pathways to careers that prioritize specialized knowledge and hands-on expertise. Incorporating this into their academic strategy not only prepares students for certifications but also develops discipline and focus, which are essential traits for both academic and career success.

Students with well-defined career objectives can also find inspiration in role models or mentors in their desired professions. Observing the habits and skills that led to their mentors' success can inspire students to adopt similar practices. Additionally, setting milestones, such as mastering a necessary skill or completing an internship in their chosen field, can further refine their study habits into a structured and goal-oriented routine. By connecting daily academic actions to long-term career aspirations, students are more likely to remain engaged, persistent, and productive in their educational journey.

Do Accelerated Degree Programs Demand a Unique Set of Study Habits?

Accelerated degree programs require heightened focus, adaptive time management, and an agile approach to processing complex information. Students in these environments must prioritize immediate comprehension and frequent review to keep pace with intensive course delivery. Tailored strategies such as breaking down tasks into even smaller, manageable segments and leveraging digital tools for instant feedback are critical. Learners are encouraged to integrate reflective practices into their routine to promptly adjust study techniques in response to the program’s fast-moving curriculum. For detailed information on adapting to accelerated academic paths, consider enrolling in a fast track bachelor degree program that complements advanced study habits with adaptive learning frameworks.

How Can Academic Support Services Enhance Study Habits?

Leveraging academic support services can provide targeted assistance that refines study strategies and addresses individual learning gaps. Institutions offer tutoring centers, academic advising, and workshops that deliver personalized feedback and alternative learning techniques without duplicating self-study methods. Incorporating these external resources promotes a structured approach to problem-solving and critical thinking. For those pursuing practical, career-focused education, integrating insights from 6 month trade school programs can further complement academic growth with industry-relevant skills.

How Can Expert Guidance Enhance Study Habits?

Professional academic mentors offer tailored strategies that refine personal study plans without duplicating existing support services. Expert guidance facilitates targeted analysis of learning styles and academic challenges, enabling students to adjust techniques efficiently while promoting accountability and strategic time management. Leveraging specialized insights from a best Ivy League admission consultant can provide advanced perspectives to further align study practices with long‐term academic and career goals.

Effective Study Habits Bring Success

An effective study habit can make for successful learning among students, and several students have proved study habits are predictors of successful academic performance. However, when still developing a study habit, students must consciously keep doing a task regularly for it to develop into a habit. As such, the study schedule or plan should be smart enough so that students can stay motivated and keep doing it without ending up feeling frustrated for missing so much. Ultimately, the study schedule or plan must fit the students’ type of learning and school schedule for it to be something they can follow through.

Key Insights

• Effective Study Habits: Effective study habits, such as time management, goal setting, and removing distractions, are crucial for academic success. Higher achievers utilize these habits more frequently than lower achievers.
• Time Management: Efficient time management is linked to better academic performance and reduces stress, allowing students to balance study and personal time.
• Distraction-Free Study: Finding an appropriate study environment that minimizes distractions can significantly improve focus and learning efficiency.
• Goal Setting: Setting specific, realistic goals helps students prioritize their activities and stay on track with their academic objectives.
• Consistent Study Sessions: Studying consistently in shorter periods is more effective than cramming, leading to better retention and understanding of material.
• Studying Alone vs. Group Study: While studying alone helps with memorization, group study enhances comprehension by exposing students to different perspectives and facilitating peer teaching.
• Learning from Multiple Sources: Effective students seek information from various sources to deepen their understanding and enhance their research skills.
• Organized Notes: Keeping well-organized notes aids in efficient review and long-term retention of information.

FAQ

1. What are the key study habits of highly effective students? Highly effective students practice good time management, set specific goals, remove distractions, study consistently, and utilize both individual and group study sessions. They also seek information from multiple sources and keep organized notes.
2. How can time management improve academic performance? Efficient time management helps students balance their study and personal time, reducing stress and allowing for consistent study sessions. This leads to better retention and understanding of material.
3. Why is it important to find a distraction-free study environment? A distraction-free study environment helps students maintain focus, making their study sessions more effective. This can lead to improved performance on exams and assignments.
4. What should I consider when setting study goals? Study goals should be specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-bound (SMART). This helps students prioritize their activities and stay on track with their academic objectives.
5. Why is consistent studying more effective than cramming? Consistent studying in shorter periods leads to better retention and understanding of material compared to cramming, which often results in only temporary memorization and increased stress.
6. How can studying alone and in groups benefit students? Studying alone helps with memorization, while group study enhances comprehension by exposing students to different perspectives and facilitating peer teaching. Both methods are essential for a well-rounded study strategy.
7. Why should students seek information from multiple sources? Seeking information from multiple sources deepens understanding, strengthens research skills, and provides a more comprehensive view of the subject matter.
8. How does keeping organized notes aid in studying? Organized notes make it easier to review and retain information. They help students quickly find key points and understand the material, especially when preparing for exams.
9. What other habits contribute to the success of highly effective students? Besides study habits, effective students list their top priorities, read regularly, seek constant improvement, ask questions, use calendars, arrive early for appointments, relax and sleep adequately, spend time outdoors, and stay hydrated and well-nourished.
10. How can students develop effective study habits? Developing effective study habits requires setting SMART goals, managing time efficiently, understanding their learning style, and choosing appropriate study methods. Consistency and patience are key to turning these activities into habits.

References:

• Adams, R. V., & Blair, E. (2019). Impact of Time Management Behaviors on Undergraduate Engineering Students’ Performance. SAGE Open, 9(1), 215824401882450. https://doi.org/10.1177/2158244018824506
• Bahrami, S., Rajaeepour, S., Rizi, H. A., Zahmatkesh, M., & Nematolahi, Z. (2011). The relationship between students’ study habits, happiness and depression. Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research, 16(3), 217221. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3249802/
• Bin Abdulrahman, K. A., Khalaf, A. M., Bin Abbas, F. B., & Alanazi, O. T. (2021). Study Habits of Highly Effective Medical Students. Advances in Medical Education and Practice, 12, 627633. https://doi.org/10.2147/AMEP.S309535
• Biringkanae, A. (2018). The Use Of SQ3r Technique in Improving Students` Reading Comprehension. ELS Journal on Interdisciplinary Studies in Humanities, 1(2), 218225. https://doi.org/10.34050/els-jish.v1i2.4316
• Educational Psychology Interactive: Methods of Study. (n.d.). Retrieved February 1, 2022, from http://www.edpsycinteractive.org/topics/cognition/sq4r.html
• Fuligni, A. J., Telzer, E. H., Bower, J., Cole, S. W., Kiang, L., & Irwin, M. R. (2014). A Preliminary Study of Daily Interpersonal Stress and C-Reactive Protein Levels Among Adolescents From Latin American and European Backgrounds. Psychosomatic Medicine, 71(3), 329333. https://doi.org/10.1097/psy.0b013e3181921b1f
• Gibson, M. (2011, January 24). New Research Shows Testing, Not Cramming, Key To Learning. TIME.Com. https://newsfeed.time.com/2011/01/24/new-research-shows-testing-not-cramming-key-to-learning/
• Jafari, H., Aghaei, A., & Khatony, A. (2019). Relationship between study habits and academic achievement in students of medical sciences in Kermanshah-Iran. Advances in Medical Education and Practice, 10, 637643. https://doi.org/10.2147/AMEP.S208874
• Quilez-Robres, A., Gonzalez-Andrade, A., Ortega, Z., & Santiago-Ramajo, S. (2021). Intelligence quotient, short-term memory and study habits as academic achievement predictors of elementary school: A follow-up study. Studies in Educational Evaluation, 70, 101020. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1016/j.stueduc.2021.101020
• Walck-Shannon, E. M., Rowell, S. F., & Frey, R. F. (2021). To What Extent Do Study Habits Relate to Performance? CBE—Life Sciences Education, 20(1), ar6. https://doi.org/10.1187/cbe.20-05-0091