introduction for study habits essay

27 Good Study Habits of Straight-A Students

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

Study habits refer to the consistent practice and approach to study, on a regular basis, to enhance academic performance.

The good thing about a habit is that once you do it on a regular basis, it becomes easy. So, your job is to get into this habit early. Once you’re into the habit, university becomes easy (well, easier ).

Good study habits that I recommend include getting into the routine of heading to the library (or a similar study space) to study without distractions, chunking your studies by subject, and using spaced repetition for things that require rote memorization .

I also recommend studying with friends – such as by testing one another – whenever possible.

The integration of efficient study habits enhances academic performance and motivation to study . By developing effective study strategies adjusted to your personal learning style, you improve concentration and retention of information – and concentration, more than time spent studying, is found to be a key factor for success (Nonis & Hudson, 2010).

Good Study Habits

1. Time Management Time management refers to being able to efficiently allocate your time so you don’t run out of time, and so you have enough time to allocate to all important tasks. As a basis, you could initiate a dedicated study schedule, specifying the time slots for each subject. For instance, you might want to allot your mornings for theory-heavy subjects like Anatomy, and save the afternoons for practice-oriented subjects like Clinical Skills. Don’t forget to also block time for regular study breaks and social events. This is crucial to prevent burnout and maintain longevity – university is a marathon, not a sprint.

Read Also: 7 Things to do in your First Week of University

2. Using Active Reading Strategies This is the process of engaging with the material by asking questions and drawing connections. Instead of passively reading your texts, you can participate more actively by summarizing the information in your own words, teaching it to someone else, quizzing yourself, or creating visual aids like diagrams and mind maps. As Issa et al. (2012) found, reading relevant information daily is an effective study habit for improving grades.

3. Setting Realistic Goals This strategy involves laying out achievable objectives for each study session or topic. Setting goals not only keeps you focused, but also helps gauge your progress. For example, instead of aiming to read an entire biology textbook in two days, you might target mastering one chapter per day. I recommend setting both short-term study goals and long-term study goals using the SMART Goals method .

4. Prioritization Successful students often prioritize tasks based on their deadlines and degree of importance. You might follow the Eisenhower Box method: divide your tasks into four categories, namely, important and urgent, important but not urgent, not important but urgent, and not important and not urgent. For instance, an upcoming exam translates into an important and urgent task, hence it would be first on your list.

5. Spaced Repetition This strategy involves studying information over incremental intervals instead of cramming it in one sitting. You might review your notes on the day you learn something, then again in a couple of days, then after a week, and so forth. There are even apps like the Anki flashcards app that have a built-in spaced repetition algorithm that can space how often ideas are presented to you.

6. Creating a Suitable Environment Each individual’s ideal study environment may differ based on personal preferences . Some people need complete silence, while others work better with some background noise. If you like silence, the quite section of a library is a good place to start – I recommend making it a habit to go to the library at your university as often as possible. Conversely, if you feel background noise helps you to concentrate, consider studying at a cafe. But the key is to ensure your environment is right for you. As Ogbodo (2010, p. 229) argues: “Where to study is as important as what to study and how to go about studying.”

7. Taking Breaks Integrating regular short breaks into your study pattern can boost your productivity and mental agility because it decreases distractions during focused study time. And this is important. As Walck-Shannon, Rowell and Frey (2021) found, “students reported being distracted about 20% of their study time, and distraction while studying negatively predicted exam performance.” So, let’s avoid that – by splitting our time between strong focus, then rest. Typically, the Pomodoro technique is a popular method for this, where you study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four such cycles, you take a longer break of 15-20 minutes. During your breaks, you can engage in some light activity such as stretching or walking to invigorate yourself.

8. Maintaining Physical Health Eating well, getting regular exercise, and ensuring enough sleep are often overlooked aspects of efficient studying. Research shows that a balanced diet, physical activity, and proper sleep improve cognitive functions , including memory and concentration. You may want to establish a regular sleep schedule, incorporate a balanced diet, and schedule regular exercise sessions each week into your routine.

9. Using Technology Wisely Technology offers a range of tools that can streamline your study process. For instance, you can use apps for time management (e.g., Rescue Time), note-taking (e.g., Evernote), or spaced repetition (e.g., Anki). While these apps can be beneficial, remember to keep checks on screens’ disruptive nature and the habit of digital distraction. As practice, try turning off your phone’s notifications when you study, or set ‘Do Not Disturb’ intervals.

10. Review and Revise Sessions Regular review of study materials aids in long-term retention of information. You can allocate specific time slots each week to revisit old notes, attempt self-test papers or engage in group discussions. For instance, you might dedicate your Sunday mornings to revising everything you’ve covered during the preceding week.

11. Active Writing Transcribing information demands active engagement, thereby reinforcing your understanding and memory of the subject. You might opt to rewrite complex concepts in your own words or diagrammatically represent intricate processes. For example, instead of merely reading about the human circulatory system, consider drawing it out with brief annotations.

12. Seeking Help When Needed Understanding when to seek help is an underrated study habit. If you find yourself struggling with a subject, don’t hesitate to approach your professors, peers, or study groups for clarification. You might also seek online resources such as academic forums or educational websites. Remember, it’s better to clarify doubts initially than to have misconceptions hamper your overall learning.

13. Mindfulness and Focus Mindfulness, or present-moment awareness, can help enhance your comprehension and retention during studying. You could practice mindfulness by removing distractions, concentrating on the task at hand, and making a conscious effort to absorb the material.

14. Integrating Study with Real-Life Scenarios Applying the theoretical knowledge learned during study sessions to real-life instances can facilitate a deeper understanding. You might relate basic principles of economics to household budgeting or chemistry to cooking. This practice can help convert abstract concepts into tangible examples.

15. Regular Self-Assessment Implementing regular exams or quizzes to assess your understanding and memory can be a direct way to monitor progress. You can either use ready-made quizzes available online or design a short assessment yourself. As you answer, mark out the areas you struggled with for further review. This method will help you know where you stand in your preparation and what areas need extra effort.

16. Employing Mnemonics This involves using techniques to retain and retrieve information. The method could be as simple as creating an acronym or conjuring up a relevant mental image. For example, in recalling the taxonomical rank in biology – Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species – you might use the well-known mnemonic phrase: “King Phillip Came Over For Good Soup.” Examples of additional mnemonic techniques include the method of loci and memory linking .

17. Incorporating Understandable Examples Since abstract concepts can be confusing, associating them with relateable analogies can help you grasp the idea. This technique depends heavily on your creativity and could be as simple as linking a literary theme to a popular movie plot. Ensuring your examples make sense to you is vital.

18. Varying Study Methods It is beneficial to avoid monotony and experiment with multiple learning techniques. This can include oscillating between solitary studying and group study sessions, or alternating between text-based learning and audio-visual aids. For instance, following a hefty reading session, you might want to watch a related documentary or podcast on the topic. Switching up strategies not only prevents burnout but also caters to different facets of your learning style.

19. Note-Taking Strategy Effective note-taking is a skill that helps in better understanding and remembrance of knowledge. You should decide a note-taking strategy which could be outlining, mind mapping, or the Cornell method, and stick to it. For example, you might use the Cornell Method, which divides the paper into notes, cues, and a summary section for enhancing retention and review.

20. Regularity and Consistency Consistency is the cornerstone of strong study habits. Establishing a regular routine that allocates specific periods for study each day leads to better academic performance. For instance, studying for two hours per day consistently is more effective than cramming for fourteen hours once a week.

21. Engage All Senses Engaging multiple senses aids in strengthening your memory of the subject matter. This could involve reading aloud, rewriting notes, creating visual aids, or even using software to convert text to speech. The goal is to consume the information through as many sensory channels as possible to maximize retention. For example, if you’re studying foreign vocabulary, you could listen to the pronunciation, read the definition, write the word several times, and visualize an image related to it.

22. Reflective Learning Reflective learning involves regularly taking a few moments to contemplate what you’ve learned. This process ensures you understand the main concepts and helps you evaluate how effectively the learning material has been understood. For instance, after reading a section on World History, take a moment to think about what questions have been answered and what new questions have arisen in your mind about the topic.

23. Preparing for the Next Class Reviewing the material that will be covered in the next class helps make the class more productive and understandable. By having prior knowledge of the topic, you can better participate in class discussions and raise insightful queries. For example, if tomorrow’s Physics class covers Electromagnetic Waves, you might want to read the corresponding chapter tonight.

24. Constructive Procrastination While complete avoidance of procrastination is the goal, sometimes it’s unavoidable. Constructive procrastination involves doing another task that also needs to be done when you feel like procrastinating. If you find yourself unable to study Civil Law, consider switching to another pending task, such as completing your Mathematics assignment. This way, you remain productive while giving in to the urge to procrastinate.

25. Visualization Techniques Visualization involves picturing the information in your mind, which can significantly improve memory and recall. For instance, when studying Anatomy, envisioning the body parts, systems, and processes can enhance your understanding. If you’d like to explore this strategy more, read my article on the visual peg-word system for memorization .

26. Listen to Music Without Lyrics Listening to music while studying is a controversial topic. Some people think it helps them to achieve a flow state, while most research suggests that “ media multitasking ” is a distraction whether we realize it or not (Xu, Wang, & Woods, 2019). Generally, I recommend that if you do like that background nose, try to listen to music without lyrics, like lo-fi playlists from YouTube, which act as background noise and could potentially prevent your mind from wandering.

27. Study with Friends Thalluri (2016) found that “study buddy support groups” significantly support studying. Friends can keep each other accountable and help motivate one another. And, according to social learning theory , working in groups helps us to reinforce knowledge. For example, if you’re talking about the course content with friends, you’ll hear their unique perspectives, which you can critically compare to your own, which augments, supports, positively alters, and strengthens your own perspectives.

Study habits act as the building blocks of your academic journey. Efficient study habits not only ensure better academic performance but also help in gaining lifelong skills like time management, goal-setting, and self-discipline. By adopting effective study habits, you modulate your academic journey to a more favorable and fruitful path.

If you want to dive deeper into getting good study habits, I’d recommend James Clear’s Atomic Habits book – it’s an amazing book for learning to get more productive and optimize your time as a student.

Issa, A.O., Aliyu, M.B., Akangbe, R.B., and Adedeji, A.F. (2012). Reading interest and habits of the federal polytechnic students. International Journal of Learning & Development, 2 (1): 470-486.

Nonis, S. A., & Hudson, G. I. (2010). Performance of college students: Impact of study time and study habits.  Journal of education for Business ,  85 (4), 229-238.

Ogbodo, R. O. (2010). Effective Study Habits in Educational Sector: Counselling Implications.  Edo Journal of Counselling ,  3 (2), 230-242.

Thalluri, J. (2016). Who benefits most from peer support group?–First year student success for Pathology students.  Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences ,  228 , 39-44.

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). doi: https://doi.org/10.1187/cbe.20-05-0091

Xu, S., Wang, Z., & Woods, K. (2019). Multitasking and dual motivational systems: A dynamic longitudinal study.  Human Communication Research ,  45 (4), 371-394. doi: https://doi.org/10.1093/hcr/hqz009

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 25 Number Games for Kids (Free and Easy)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 25 Word Games for Kids (Free and Easy)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 25 Outdoor Games for Kids
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 50 Incentives to Give to Students

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Study habits

Study is an important part of your university life. Learning how to manage your study and developing good study habits will help you study effectively and maximise your learning at University.

What you will learn

• techniques for developing good study habits
• strategies to help manage your time effectively

Image: Planner by Marijana1 Pixabay

Start planning

The key to keeping on track of your studies is to organise yourself - carefully organising your study time so you can juggle family and other personal commitments. This means getting into the habit of planning! Planning is the basis of good time management. It allows you to track what you are doing, monitor what you have already done and how much time you have available to you. Whether it’s short-term or long-term planning, creating a plan will give you guidance and direction, allowing you to manage your time more effectively.

Semester plan

At the start of the semester, begin planning how you are going to manage your study load with your other commitments. This will give you an overview of your commitments for the whole semester. Consider the following:

• Check the University calendar - it shows semester breaks, study weeks, tuition-free weeks, exam dates etc.
• Use your unit outlines - this will give you a general overview of the whole semester, including assessment due dates.
• Plan your timetable - use the Curtin timetable to plan a potential timetable for your different combinations of units. Record dates for lectures, tutorials, tests, assignment submissions and other significant events.

Using planners such as the above can help you record important dates so you are prepared for what lies ahead. If there are any serious clash of commitments, you will be able to see it and negotiate with your tutors.

Weekly plan

Once you have noted down the key dates for the semester, start planning for each week. Your lectures and tutorial times for the various subjects are usually scheduled at the same time each week so try and develop a weekly study routine. Your weekly plan should include both study and personal activities, for example:

• Lectures and tutorials
• Pre-reading material
• Work and family commitments
• Health and well-being activities (sports, gym, yoga etc)

Keeping a daily plan of all your activities can help you work towards completing your tasks within a set time frame. For example, “Complete introduction to essay “ - by planning for this task you will hold yourself accountable and make use of your time effectively. You may also want to consider giving yourself a little reward for having accomplished the task.

You can use a diary, to do list or other forms of electronic planners to schedule your daily activities.

Planning and organising your study load is important, but it is also important to get the balance right so that you can go from the planning stage and move into actually getting started!

Having goals is a good way to motivate yourself and get you started. When setting goals, consider breaking down your work into achievable goals rather than being overly ambitious. The video below shows you how to use the SMART goals method to create clear and achievable goals that you can actually work with.

Tips for setting goals:

• set clearly defined goals - set specific goals so you are clear about exactly what you want to achieve
• keep them realistic so the goals are purposeful and achievable
• break the goal down into smaller goals (mini-goals), then breaking down the mini-goals into tasks
• set a time frame for achieving these goals - set a start and end date
• adjust your expectations - if you are feeling unwell on the day, you may need to modify your schedule accordingly. Do not feel guilty!

And remember to reward yourself when you successfully complete a task (call a friend, check your emails or get a snack).

The activity below will show you how to tackle your assignment by breaking down your goal (of completing an assignment) into mini-goals, and into achievable tasks.

In the activity place the mini tasks for writing an assignment in the correct order.

Manage your time

Time management is an essential skill for studying at University. Students who manage their time well often perform better in their first year of University (Kitsantas et.al., 2008). Finding ways of managing your time can help you cope with the pressure of studying, ensuring you do the right work at the right time.

Time management is all about self management - managing you and what you choose to do in an allocated space that we call time. Managing you and your time is all about:

• being aware that time is limited - you cannot get back time that has passed
• organising your goals, plans and schedules to effectively use time, and
• monitoring your use of time and adjusting to the distractions and changing priorities.

The key to managing your time rests on valuing what you do, prioritising and organising your activities.

When you value what you are doing you will commit to it - you will dedicate more time to it and less time to what is less important to you. Ask yourself “Is this work (study or degree) important to me?” If the answer is “Yes”, then it deserves your full attention and commitment. Focusing on high value activities will ensure you do not mis-locate your time.

To reconnect with your values, try this:

• list 3 main reasons why you decided to undertake university study - stick it on your wall so it is a visible reminder to you
• list your core values e.g. career, family, health - reflecting on this regularly can help you prioritise what’s important and what’s not
• visualise your future life with the degree - this visualisation could motivate you to achieve your goal

Prioritising

Working out your priorities can help you manage your study, work and life as this ensures that you get the important things done first whilst still having time for the little things you would still like to do. For example, you may have a couple of exams coming up and may need to prioritise subjects that are more challenging for you and allocate time on these first. But how do you decide on what the most important task is when everything feels important?

There are a number of techniques to help you prioritise but always find the one that best suits you.

• Priority matrix (Stephen Covey)
• Pareto Principle
• Focus on the most important tasks (MITs)

The key to keeping on track of your studies is to organise yourself - carefully organising your study time so you can juggle family and other personal commitments. Here are some tips on how to get organised:

• Write notes or a to-do-list - tick each task off as you complete them, but remember to keep it manageable!
• Use diaries, timetables and calendars - write down all your commitments (assignment due dates, work, sports, social events etc.)
• Create a time audit to track your time. There are many apps and study techniques to help you stay on track, e.g. the Pomodoro Technique , which uses a timer to break down work into 25 minute intervals with short breaks in-between.

Note: Get into the habit of referring back to these at the end of each week to track your progress and see if you need to make some adjustments.

Useful resources for managing your time:

• Improve your time management techniques
• T he Pomodoro technique

Know yourself

Knowing who you are and what you are like is a critical part of managing yourself and the time that you have. Are you organised or rigid? Flexible or disorganised? Do you have a short or long concentration span? It is important to consider what works well for you in regard to how you manage your study load with time to rest and play. Get to know yourself and your habits and monitor your behaviour and actions so you can turn these into your patterns of study.

Find your learning style

We all learn differently - some learn by looking (visual learners), by hearing or listening (auditory learners) or by touching and doing (kinaesthetic learners). Try to identify your preferred learning style so that you can find techniques to help you study effectively. And remember, your learning style may change over time.

You may want to check out the various questionnaires available to help you identify your main learning style:

• Honey and Mumford Learning Styles Questionnaire
• Index of Learning Styles Questionnaire (North Carolina State University)
• What’s Your Learning Style Quiz (Matrix Education)

Know your peak times

People work best at different times of the day so try and find your ‘Einstein window’ - the time of day that you function the best (mental peak) and where you feel energised and productive. For some, it may be the mornings whilst for others it may be during the night, so get to know your peak time and schedule your study time accordingly. It is better to perform your most challenging work (e.g understanding abstract material) at your peak time as this is when you are most alert and efficient. The least challenging tasks can be done when you are not functioning at your peak level.

Find your safe (happy) place

Finding places to study (on campus, at home, park etc) that suit your personality and learning style is important. Choose spaces that make you feel comfortable, focused and productive so that you can study effectively. If a space no longer suits you, switch it up for another working space.

Understand your concentration levels

Good concentration is essential when studying as it allows you to optimise your study time and avoid time wasting. However as our concentration span varies (depending on the person and the task) it is useful to understand your level of concentration.

Some tips to help you develop good concentration:

• have a plan so you know exactly what you have to do
• practise mindfulness - actively engage in what your are studying (e.g take notes while reading)
• eliminate disruptions and interruptions that you know will cause you to lose focus
• take short breaks to refresh yourself and get back on track
• adopt a healthy lifestyle through eating and sleeping well, and exercising.

Practise self-reflection and mindfulness

Get into the habit of practising self-reflection! Reviewing and reflecting on your day, week or activities can help you monitor your progress and keep you on track and make a conscious choice of whether you are committed to carrying it out. Ask yourself:

• Did I get the set tasks done? If not, why?
• What went well? Why?
• What did not go well? Why?
• How can I do this better next time?

Once you have made a conscious, deliberate choice that you are committed to doing something, you will give yourself the best chance of doing well. And remember, discussing and sharing your experiences with others (peers, tutors) can help you gain a different perspective.

Being mindful is another useful technique for developing good study habits. Try focusing on the present moment, totally engaged with the task that you are working on. This way, you will be able to work more efficiently and productively.

Check out some of the useful resources available to help you develop mindfulness.

• Mindfulness resources (Curtin University)

Access information on Curtin’s mindfulness programs, community, therapists and more.

Ask for help

Get into the habit of seeking assistance when you are struggling with your studies. It is best to ask for help as soon as possible instead of wasting too much time trying to solve the problem yourself. Consider consulting your tutor and lecturer in the first instance but also remember that your classmates and friends may also be a great source of help.

You will also want to take advantage of the academic support programs that are offered by the university. For example, the Library offers online programs and workshops to help you develop your academic research and study skills.

And remember, it is important to take responsibility for yourself and your own learning!

Test yourself

Want to create or adapt books like this? Learn more about how Pressbooks supports open publishing practices.

Chapter 4: Effective Study Habits

Work smarter, not harder: effective studying techniques, developing smart study skills.

At the beginning of the semester, your workload is relatively light. This is the perfect time to brush up on your study skills and establish good habits. When the demands on your time and energy become more intense, you will have a system in place for handling them.  The goal of this section is to help you develop your own method for studying and learning efficiently.

As you work through this section, remember that every student is different. The strategies presented here are techniques that work well for many people; however, you may need to adapt them to develop a system that works well for you personally. If your friend swears by her smartphone, but you hate having to carry extra electronic gadgets around, then using a smartphone will not be the best organizational strategy for you.

Take a moment to consider what techniques have been effective (or ineffective) for you in the past. Which habits from your high school years or your work life could help you succeed now? Which habits might get in your way? What changes might you need to make?

Understanding Your Learning Preferences

To succeed in your post-secondary education—or any situation where you must master new concepts and skills—it helps to know what makes you tick. For decades, educational researchers and organizational psychologists have examined how people take in and assimilate new information, how some people learn differently than others, and what conditions make students and workers most productive. Here are just a few questions to think about:

• What times of day are you most productive?  If your energy peaks early, you might benefit from blocking out early morning time for studying or writing. If you are a night owl, set aside a few evenings a week for schoolwork.
• How much clutter can you handle in your workspace?  Some people work fine at a messy desk and know exactly where to find what they need in their stack of papers; however, most people benefit from maintaining a neat, organized space.
• How well do you juggle potential distractions in your environment?  If you can study at home without being tempted to turn on the television, check your email, fix yourself a snack, and so on, you may make home your workspace. However, if you need a less distracting environment to stay focused, you may be able to find one on campus or in your community.
• Does a little background noise help or hinder your productivity? Some people work better when listening to background music or the low hum of conversation in a coffee shop. Others need total silence.
• When you work with a partner or group, do you stay on task?  A study partner or group can sometimes be invaluable. However, working this way takes extra planning and effort, so be sure to use the time productively. If you find that group study sessions turn into social occasions, you may study better on your own.
• How do you manage stress? Accept that at certain points in the semester, you will feel stressed out. In your day-to-day routine, make time for activities that help you reduce stress, such as exercising, spending time with friends, or just scheduling downtime to relax

Video source: https://youtu.be/Bxv9lf5HjZM

Understanding your Learning Style

For the purposes of this chapter, learning style  refers to the way you prefer to take in new information, by seeing, by listening, or through some other channel. (For more information, see the section on learning styles.)

Most people have one channel that works best for them when it comes to taking in new information. Knowing yours can help you develop strategies for studying, time management, and note taking that work especially well for you.

To begin identifying your learning style, think about how you would go about the process of assembling a piece of furniture. Which of these options sounds most like you?

• You would carefully look over the diagrams in the assembly manual first so you could picture each step in the process.
• You would silently read the directions through, step by step, and then look at the diagrams afterward.
• You would read the directions aloud under your breath. Having someone explain the steps to you would also help.
• You would start putting the pieces together and figure out the process through trial and error, consulting the directions as you worked.

Now read the following explanations of each option in the list above. Again, think about whether each description sounds like you.

• If you chose 1, you may be a visual learner . You understand ideas best when they are presented in a visual format, such as a flow chart, a diagram, or text with clear headings and many photos or illustrations.
• If you chose 2, you may be a verbal learner . You understand ideas best through reading and writing about them and taking detailed notes.
• If you chose 3, you may be an auditory learner . You understand ideas best through listening. You learn well from spoken lectures or books on tape.
• If you chose 4, you may be a kinesthetic learner . You learn best through doing and prefer hands-on activities. In long lectures, fidgeting may help you focus.

Learning Style Strategies

Time Management

Getting Started: Short- and Long-Term Planning

At the beginning of the semester, establishing a daily/weekly routine for when you will study and write can be extremely beneficial. A general guideline is that for every hour spent in class, you should expect to spend another two to three hours on reading, writing, and studying for tests. Therefore, if you are taking a biology course that meets three times a week for an hour at a time, you can expect to spend six to nine hours per week on it outside of class. You will need to budget time for each class just like an employer schedules shifts at work, and you must make that study time a priority.

That may sound like a lot when taking several classes, but if you plan your time carefully, it is manageable. A typical full-time schedule of 15 credit hours translates into 30 to 45 hours per week spent on schoolwork outside of class. All in all, a full-time student would spend about as much time on school each week as an employee spends on work. Balancing school and a job can be more challenging, but still doable.

In addition to setting aside regular work periods, you will need to plan ahead to handle more intense demands, such as studying for exams and writing major papers. At the beginning of the semester, go through your course syllabi and mark all major due dates and exam dates on a calendar. Use a format that you check regularly, such as your smartphone or the calendar feature in your email. (In  Section 1.3 Becoming a Successful Writer , you will learn strategies for planning major writing assignments so you can complete them on time.)

PRO TIP:  The two- to three-hour rule may sound intimidating. However, keep in mind that this is only a rule of thumb. Realistically, some courses will be more challenging than others, and the demands will ebb and flow throughout the semester. You may have trouble-free weeks and stressful weeks. When you schedule your classes, try to balance introductory-level classes with more advanced classes so that your work load stays manageable.

Self-Practice Exercise

Now that you have learned some time management basics, it is time to apply those skills. For this exercise, you will develop a weekly schedule and a semester calendar.

• Working  with  your  class   schedule,   map   out   a   week-‐long  schedule  of  study  time.  Try  to  apply  the  two   to   three-hour   rule.   Be   sure   to   include   any   other   nonnegotiable   responsibilities,   such   as   a   job   or   child   care   duties.
• Use  your  course   syllabi   to   record   exam   dates   and   due   dates   for   major   assignments   in   a   calendar   (paper   or  electronic).   Use   a   star,   highlighting,   or   other   special   marking   to   set   off   any   days   or   weeks   that   look   especially  demanding.

Staying Consistent: Time Management Dos and Do Not’s

Setting up a schedule is easy. Sticking with it, however, may be challenging. A schedule that looked great on paper may prove to be unrealistic. Sometimes, despite students’ best intentions, they end up procrastinating or pulling all-nighters to finish a paper or study for an exam.

Keep in mind, however, that your weekly schedule and semester calendar are time management tools. Like any tool, their effectiveness depends on the user: you. If you leave a tool sitting in the box unused (e.g., you set up your schedule and then forget about it), it will not help you complete the task. And if, for some reason, a particular tool or strategy is not getting the job done, you need to figure out why and maybe try using something else.

With that in mind, read the list of time management dos and don’ts. Keep this list handy as a reference you can use throughout the semester to troubleshoot if you feel like your schoolwork is getting off track.

• Do set aside time to review your schedule and calendar regularly and update or adjust them as needed.
• Do be realistic when you schedule study time. Do not plan to write your paper on Friday night when everyone else is out socializing. When Friday comes, you might end up abandoning your plans and hanging out with your friends instead.
• Do be honest with yourself about where your time goes. Do not fritter away your study time on distractions like email and social networking sites.
• Do accept that occasionally your work may get a little off track. No one is perfect.
• Do accept that sometimes you may not have time for all the fun things you would like to do.
• Do recognize times when you feel overextended. Sometimes you may just need to get through an especially demanding week. However, if you feel exhausted and overworked all the time, you may need to scale back on some of your commitments.
• Do make a plan for handling high-stress periods, such as final exam week. Try to reduce your other commitments during those periods—for instance, by scheduling time off from your job. Build in some time for relaxing activities, too.
• Do be kind to yourself – many students balance school and other important responsibilities (work, family, friends, etc.).  There will be times where you will have to prioritize where your time goes, and that’s okay.

Try Not To:

• Procrastinate on challenging assignments. Instead, break them into smaller, manageable tasks that can be accomplished one at a time.  An assignment calculator can be a useful tool for helping to get yourself organized.
• Fall into the trap of “all or nothing” thinking. (e.g. “There is no way I can fit in a three-hour study session today, so I will just wait until the weekend.”) Extended periods of free time are hard to come by, so find ways to use small blocks of time productively. For instance, if you have a free half hour between classes, use it to preview a chapter or brainstorm ideas for an essay.

One of the best things you can do for yourself as a student is realize that we  all procrastinate at some point.  Knowing your procrastination style can help you to recognize and change bad habits.  Look at the chart below and see if you can identify your procrastination style (you might use more than one!):

The  key  to  managing  your  time  effectively  is  consistency.  Completing  the  following  tasks  will  help  you  stay  on  track  throughout  the  semester.

• Establish  regular  times  to  “check  in”  with  yourself  to  identify  and  prioritize  tasks  and  plan  how  to  accomplish  them.  Many  people  find  it  is  best  to  set  aside  a  few  minutes  for  this  each  day  and  to  take  some  time  to  plan  at  the  beginning  of  each  week.
• For  the  next  two  weeks,  focus  on  consistently  using  whatever  time  management  system  you  have  set  up.  Check  in  with  yourself  daily  and  weekly,  stick  to  your  schedule,  and  take  note  of  anything  that  interferes.  At  the  end  of  the  two  weeks,  review  your  schedule  and  determine  whether  you  need  to  adjust  it.

studying & Note-Taking Methods

Summarizing  is one of the most effective means of studying and making sure that you’ve learned the concept/skill.  Can you go through the steps mentally?  Can you describe or explain it to someone else in your own words?   This is the process of summarizing and synthesizing information.

When summarizing material from a source, you zero in on the main points and restate them concisely in your own words. This technique is appropriate when only the major ideas are relevant to your paper or when you need to simplify complex information into a few key points for your readers. To create a summary, consider the following points:

• Review the source material as you summarize it.
• Identify the main idea and restate it as concisely as you can—preferably in one sentence. Depending on your purpose, you may also add another sentence or two condensing any important details or examples.
• Check your summary to make sure it is accurate and complete.
• Make a careful record of where you found the information because you will need to include the reference and citation if you choose to use the information in an essay. It is much easier to do this when you are creating the summary and taking notes than having to go back and hunt for the information later. Guessing where you think you got it from is not good enough.

Summaries and Abstracts

When you read many academic journal articles, you will notice there is an abstract before the article starts: this is a summary of the article’s contents. Be careful when you are summarizing an article to not depend too much on the abstract as it is already a condensed version of the content. The author of the abstract identified the main points from his or her perspective; these may not match your own purpose or your own idea of what is important. What may also happen if you try to summarize the abstract is you will probably end up replacing some words with synonyms and not changing the overall ideas into your own words because the ideas are already summarized, and it is difficult to make them more generalized. You have to read the entire source or section of the source and determine for yourself what the key and supporting ideas are.

PRO TIP: A summary or abstract of a reading passage is one-tenth to one-quarter the length of the original passage, written in your own words. The criteria for a summary are that it:

• Is similar to an outline but in complete sentences and can stand as an independent piece of writing
• Includes only the main points and key details
• Is valuable because it is the surest way to measure your understanding
• Helps you remember because you must attend carefully to what you read, organize your thoughts, and write them out to make it meaningful to you (This is absolutely necessary when you cannot mark a book because it belongs to someone else.)
• Challenges you to be concise in your writing while providing balanced coverage of the main points.
• Challenges you to paraphrase or use your own words and avoid using too many quotations.
• Is important to remain objective because you are giving the author’s views not your own.

Article:  Assessing the Efficacy of Low – Carbohydrate Diets

Adrienne Howell, Ph.D. (2010)

Over the past few years, a number of clinical studies have explored whether high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets are more effective for weight loss than other frequently recommended diet plans, such as diets that drastically curtail fat intake (Pritikin) or that emphasize consuming lean meats, grains, vegetables, and a moderate amount of unsaturated fats (the Mediterranean diet). A 2009 study found that obese teenagers who followed a low-carbohydrate diet lost an average of 15.6 kilograms over a six-month period, whereas teenagers following a low-fat diet or a Mediterranean diet lost an average of 11.1 kilograms and 9.3 kilograms respectively. Two 2010 studies that measured weight loss for obese adults following these same three diet plans found similar results. Over three months, subjects on the low-carbohydrate diet plan lost anywhere from four to six kilograms more than subjects who followed other diet plans.

In three recent studies, researchers compared outcomes for obese subjects who followed either a low-carbohydrate diet, a low-fat diet, or a Mediterranean diet and found that subjects following a low-carbohydrate diet lost more weight in the same time (Howell, 2010).

What Is aNNOTATION?

Most students already know how to annotate.  When you make notes in the margins and highlight your textbooks, you are annotating that source.

When you take notes in the margins of your readings, highlight key ideas, underline passages, etc, you are  annotating a source.  Annotations are a valuable research tool because they allow you to capture your first ideas and impressions of a text, as well as enable you to find key information again quickly without having to re-read the entire text.

When annotating, you should be looking for several things:

• Key ideas, terms, and concepts
• Words or concepts that you don’t understand yet
• Points that are being made with which you (dis)agree
• Pieces of evidence that would be useful for your own paper
• Inconsistent information with what you have read elsewhere
• Parts of the text you may wish to return to later in the research process

PRO TIP: LEARN TO USE YOUR HIGHLIGHTER PROPERLY!

Many students – if not most – do not use highlighters effectively.   Highlighting is a  visual cue that is intended to help you recall or find information quickly.  If you are the person who highlights 3/4 of the page or chapter, you are not using the tool effectively.

When studying, you should have multiple colours of highlighter with you and designate certain colours for certain things.  For example:

DEFINITIONS MAIN IDEAS UNCLEAR CONCEPTS KEY EVIDENCE OR POINTS

This strategy has a few benefits:

• It forces you to slow down to switch colours, giving you more time to process what you’re reading
• It makes you read actively in order to determine how the information should be classified (for example: is this a definition or a  main idea ?)
• It creates a study system for you that is consistent and easier to follow

Video source: https://youtu.be/eVajQPuRmk8

• Read  the  following  passage  and  use  a  note-‐taking  method  to  identify  the  main  points.
• Compose  a  sentence  summarizing  the  paragraph’s  main  points.

Several  factors  about  the  environment  influence  our  behaviour.  First,  temperature  can  influence  us  greatly.  We  seem  to  feel  best when  the  temperature  is  in  the  high  teens  to  low  20s.  If  it  is  too  hot  or  cold,  we  have  trouble  concentrating.  Lighting  also  influences how  we  function.  A  dark  lecture  hall  may  interfere  with  the  lecture,  or  a  bright  nightclub  might  spoil  romantic  conversation.  Finally, our  behaviour  is  affected  by  colour.  Some  colours  make  us  feel  a  peaceful  while  others  are  exciting.  If  you  wanted  a  quiet  room  in which  to  study,  for  example,  you  would  not  paint  it  bright  orange  or  red.

Collaboration:  Please  share  with  a  classmate  and  compare  your  answers.  

Here  are  possible  answers:  

Key  points:  

Environmental  factors  influence  behaviour:

• Temperature:  extremes  make  focus  difficult
• Lighting:  inappropriate  lighting  is  disorientating
• Colour:  colour  affects  relaxation

Summary  sentence:   Three  environmental  influences  that  impact  human  behaviour  include  temperature,  as  extreme  fluctuations  make it  difficult  to  focus;  lighting,  which  can  affect  our  ability  to  engage  with  different  environments;  and  colour,  which  affects  our  mood.

Passage  taken  from:  Ueland,  B.  (2006).  Becoming  a  Master  Student.  Boston,  MA  :  Houghton  Mifflin  College  Div.,  p.  121.

• Read  the  passage.   
• Highlight  or  underline  necessary  information  (hint:  there  are  five  important  ideas).   
• Write  your  summary.    

Most people drink orange juice and eat oranges because they are said to be rich in vitamin C. There are also other foods that are rich in vitamin C. It is found in citrus fruits and vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, cabbage, cauliflower, and carrots.

Vitamin C is important to our health. Do you really know how essential this nutrient is to our health and well-being? Our body needs to heal itself. Vitamin C can repair and prevent damage to the cells in our body and heal wounds. It also keeps our teeth and gums healthy. That is not all. It protects our body from infections such as colds and flu and also helps us to get better faster when we have these infections. That is why a lot of people drink orange juice and take vitamin C tablets every day. This wonderful vitamin is also good for our heart. It protects the linings of the arteries, which are the blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood. In other words, it offers protection against heart disease.

If we do not get enough vitamin C, which means we are not eating enough food that contains this vitamin, it can lead to serious diseases. Lack of vitamin C can lead to scurvy, which causes swollen gums, cheeks, fingers, hands, toes, and feet. In serious conditions, it can lead to bleeding from wounds, loss of teeth, and opening up of wounds. Therefore, make sure you have enough vitamin C in your diet.

Exercise  taken  from:   http://www.scribd.com/doc/98238709/Form-‐Three-‐Summary-‐Writing-‐Exercise

Annotating, note making, or note taking is a matter of personal preference in terms of style. The most important thing is to do something . Again we stress that reading is like a dialogue with an author. The author wrote this material. Pretend you are actually talking to the author.

• Do not let an idea pass without noting it.
• Do not let an ambiguity go by without questioning it.
• Do not let a term slip away if context does not help you understand it; look it up!
• Engage and you will both understand and remember.

PRO TIP: Put small checks in pencil where you would normally underline. When you finish a section, look back and see what you really need to mark. (If you check over 50 percent of the page, you probably are marking to go back and learn later versus thinking about what is really important to learn now!)

Use consistent symbols to visually help you identify what is happening on the page:

• Circle central themes or write at the beginning of the section if it is not directly stated.
• [Bracket] main points.
• Underline key words or phrases for significant details.
• Put numbers 1, 2, 3 for items listed.
• Put square brackets or highlights for key terms when the definition follows.
• Use stars (*), question marks (?), or diagrams in the margins to show relevance.
• Use key word outlines in the margins for highlighting.
• Write questions in the margin that test your memory of what is written right there.
• Use blank spaces indicating the number of ideas to be remembered, forcing you to test yourself versus just rereading.

General Note-Taking Guidelines

• Before class, quickly review your notes from the previous class and the assigned reading. Fixing key terms and concepts in your mind will help you stay focused and pick out the important points during the lecture.
• Come prepared with paper, pens, highlighters, textbooks, and any important handouts.
• Come to class with a positive attitude and a readiness to learn. During class, make a point of concentrating. Ask questions if you need to. Be an active participant.
• During class, capture important ideas as concisely as you can. Use words or phrases instead of full sentences, and abbreviate when possible.
• Visually organize your notes into main topics, subtopics, and supporting points, and show the relationships between ideas. Leave space if necessary so you can add more details under important topics or subtopics.
• If your professor gives you permission to do so, you could consider taking pictures of the notes on the board with a mobile device or audio recording the lecture.
• Ideas that the instructor repeats frequently or points out as key ideas
• Ideas the instructor lists on a whiteboard or transparency
• Details, facts, explanations, and lists that develop main points
• Review your notes regularly throughout the semester, not just before exams.

Organizing Ideas in Your Notes

A good note-taking system needs to help you differentiate among major points, related subtopics, and supporting details. It visually represents the connections between ideas. Finally, to be effective, your note-taking system must allow you to record and organize information fairly quickly. Although some students like to create detailed, formal outlines or concept maps when they read, these may not be good strategies for class notes because spoken lectures may not allow time for to create them.

Instead, focus on recording content simply and quickly to create organized, legible notes. Try one of the following techniques.

Modified Outline Format

A modified outline format uses indented spacing to show the hierarchy of ideas without including roman numerals, lettering, and so forth. Just use a dash or bullet to signify each new point unless your instructor specifically presents a numbered list of items.

The first example shows Crystal’s notes from a developmental psychology class about an important theorist in this field. Notice how the line for the main topic is all the way to the left. Subtopics are indented, and supporting details are indented one level further. Crystal also used abbreviations for terms like development  and  example .

If you are a visual learner, you may prefer to use a more graphic format for notes, such as a mind map. The next example shows how Crystal’s lecture notes could be set up differently. Although the format is different, the content and organization are the same.

If the content of a lecture falls into a predictable, well organized pattern, you might choose to use a chart or table to record your notes. This system works best when you already know, either before class or at the beginning of class, which categories you should include. The next figure shows how this system might be used.

The Cornell Note-Taking System

In addition to the general techniques already described, you might find it useful to practise a specific strategy known as the Cornell note-taking system. This popular format makes it easy not only to organize information clearly but also to note key terms and summarize content.

To use the Cornell system, begin by setting up the page with these components:

• The course name and lecture date at the top of the page
• A narrow column (about two inches) at the left side of the page
• A wide column (about five to six inches) on the right side of the page
• A space of a few lines marked off at the bottom of the page

During the lecture, you record notes in the wide column. You can do so using the traditional modified outline format or a more visual format if you prefer.

Then, as soon as possible after the lecture, review your notes and identify key terms. Jot these down in the narrow left-hand column. You can use this column as a study aid by covering the notes on the right-hand side, reviewing the key terms, and trying to recall as much as you can about them so that you can mentally restate the main points of the lecture. Uncover the notes on the right to check your understanding. Finally, use the space at the bottom of the page to summarize each page of notes in a few sentences.

Over  the  next  few  weeks,  establish  a  note-‐taking  system  that  works  for  you.

• If  you  are  not  already  doing  so,  try  using  one  of  the  aforementioned  techniques.  (Remember  that  the  Cornell  system  can  be  combined  with  other  note-‐taking  formats.)
• It  can  take  some  trial  and  error  to  find  a  note-‐taking  system  that  works  for  you.  If  you  find  that  you  are  struggling  to  keep  up  with  lectures,  consider  whether  you  need  to  switch  to  a  different  format  or  be  more  careful  about  distinguishing  key  concepts  from  unimportant  details.
• If  you  find  that  you  are  having  trouble  taking  notes  effectively,  set  up  an  appointment  with  your  school’s  academic  resource  centre.

Using Online Study Tools

1. guided study session videos.

One excellent tool to help with accountability is guided study session videos.  Much like guided meditation, these videos can help you stay on track and give you some accountability.  It’s like a study partner that can’t distract you!

Video source: https://youtu.be/reRYtjr1BNo

2. The Pomodoro Technique

Much like a Guided Study Session, the Pomodoro Study Session plays ambient noise and displays a timer.  Every 25 minutes, you take a break from whatever you’re doing.  During this time you can stretch, check your phone, etc.  Here’s a neat  Harry Potter themed one!

Video source: https://youtu.be/SkmH9CsMqOo

3. Browser Lockdown Tools

Are you the person who is always getting distracted while studying?  You might consider a  website blocker (list of some available here) that will prohibit you from accessing certain sites for a certain length of time.  You tell it your guilty procrastination sites (Reddit? Instagram? Discord?) and how long you want them locked.

And maybe leave your phone/tablet in another room… 😏

4. Find a Notetaking Program/System

There are a variety of free notetaking systems and programs available.  Many students prefer the ease of a program like  Google Docs , but there are others such as  Evernote , and OneNote .

5. Looking into Assistive Technology

Assistive technology has been used by students with disabilities for a long time; however, these tools are equally valuable for all students!  Not all of them are free, but they can be a game changer for some people:

Digital Highlighters:  these cool gadgets allow you to scan hardcopy texts with a pen and it will transfer the text into a digital format on your computer/tablet.  Some popular options are Scanmarker and IrisPen

Text-to-Speech Pens/Reader Pens: Similar to digital highlighters, these pens also have the ability to read the text that you scan out loud.  Some of them also feature dictionaries built into the pen.  They are often a tool of choice for students who are learning English as an additional language and for those with dyslexia, AD(H)D, etc.  The most popular option is the C-Pen

Digital Notebooks and Smart Pens:  Digital notebooks are an excellent hybrid of physical note taking with technological storage.  One of the more popular options is the Rocektbook , which is reusable and allows you to write notes and scan them to a notetaking program using a phone app.  Smart Pens, like the LiveScribe Pen allow you to record audio, take pictures, and transfer handwritten notes to a note taking program.

Text-to-Speech Readers: this type of technology has become more popular in recent years.  These programs read digital texts aloud to you, and many are available online for free, but you may wish to start with one like NaturalReader to see if it’s helpful.

Speech-to-Text Programs:   the opposite of a text-to-speech reader and exactly what it sounds like, Speech-to-Text programs allow you to dictate to the computer using a microphone and what you say will be converted into text.  This website has a list of popular free programs, broken down by OS.

Using Available ACADEMIC Support Resources

One reason students sometimes find post-secondary courses overwhelming is that they do not know about, or are reluctant to use, the resources available to them. There is help available; your student fees help pay for resources that can help in many ways, such as a health centre or tutoring service. If you need help, consider asking for help from any of the following:

• Your instructor:  If you are making an honest effort but still struggling with a particular course, set a time to meet with your instructor and discuss what you can do to improve. He or she may be able to shed light on a confusing concept or give you strategies to catch up.
• Your academic advisor or program coordinator: Many institutions assign students an academic advisor or program coordinator who can help you choose courses and ensure that you fulfill degree and major requirements.
• The academic resource centre:  These centres offer a variety of services, which may range from general coaching in study skills to tutoring for specific courses. Find out what is offered at your school and use the services that you need.
• The writing centre ( Sheridan Tutoring Services ): These centres employ tutors to help you manage your writing assignments. They will not write or edit your paper for you, but they can help you through the stages of the writing process. (In some schools, the writing centre is part of the academic resource centre.)
• The career resource centre:  Visit the career resource centre for guidance in choosing a career path, developing a resumé, and finding and applying for jobs.
• Sheridan Counselling services : Sheridan offers counselling services on campus for free. Use these services if you need help coping with a difficult personal situation or managing depression, anxiety, or other problems.

Students sometimes neglect to use available resources due to limited time, unwillingness to admit there is a problem, or embarrassment about needing to ask for help. Unfortunately, ignoring a problem usually makes it harder to cope with later on. Waiting until the end of the semester may also mean fewer resources are available, since many other students are also seeking last minute help.

Writing for Academic and Professional Contexts: An Introduction Copyright © 2023 by Sheridan College is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License , except where otherwise noted.

Share This Book

THE LEARNERS' STUDY HABITS AND ITS RELATION ON THEIR ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

• December 2020

• Jesus Is Lord Colleges Foundation, Inc.

• St. Paul College of Bocaue
• This person is not on ResearchGate, or hasn't claimed this research yet.

• Saint Paul Technical College

Abstract and Figures

Discover the world's research

• 25+ million members
• 160+ million publication pages
• 2.3+ billion citations

• Palwasha Rahim
• Sabina Amir Muhammad
• Rosamie P. Dagoc

• ANNE SHANNE HERO PANULAYA

• Ma. Sendie C. Presbitero

• JENEMER L. NAMALATA

• Jessie C Moris
• Reymen B. De Jesus

• มนต์มนัส บุญช
• กมลทิพย์ ศรีหาเศษ
• ดารุณี ทิพยกุลไพโรจน
• Hilda Andira Nugraheni
• Umi Rokhyati

• Chongtham Beda Devi

• J HIGH EDUC

• Hermilita L. Paculba
• Ronald Alexis M. Tan

• Neda Alimohamadi
• Maryam Dehghani
• سعیده Saeide

• Kohei Okado

• Takeshi Sakai

• Mani Sharma

• Pramod Joshi
• Sarika Sharma

• Raj Pathania
• Recruit researchers
• Join for free
• Login Email Tip: Most researchers use their institutional email address as their ResearchGate login Password Forgot password? Keep me logged in Log in or Continue with Google Welcome back! Please log in. Email · Hint Tip: Most researchers use their institutional email address as their ResearchGate login Password Forgot password? Keep me logged in Log in or Continue with Google No account? Sign up

Creating Positive Change: Good Study Habits Essay

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

Good study habits are best described as a set of tools that facilitate an increase of the amount of information learned and also make the information to be remembered for a long time. Well, I did not grow up with good study habits, I used to spend most of my free time playing video games, watching movies and listening to music, and hardly doing my homework. Despite my parents’ effort of taking me to a good school, I paid little attention to schoolwork. As a result of these, I registered very poor school grades, which in turn led to frustrations both for me and my parents. It is this experience that made me convict myself to creating a positive change towards studying my school work. I realized that developing good study habits was paramount because through them, I could gain success and satisfaction during the school years and the same could be extended to the working world.

The journey towards attaining this positive change has not been easy though. I am still working on this endeavor. The very first step I am taking is to make sure that, my home is a good place to study. For any positive results to be attained in studying at home, the home environment should be made conducive for thinking. It is now clear to me that, I can only concentrate on one thing at a time; this then means that, the home environment should be free from noise and distraction. In light of the importance of quietness and less distraction, I now design a time chart for one week in which I allocate study time late in the afternoons and early evening because at this time there is minimal activity in my house.

The second step I am taking to make this change happen is to eliminate common distractions such as television, radio, and stereo, just to mention but a few. Well, I was used to studying in a noisy environment. But at the moment, I switch off the television and reduce the volume of the radio while studying. I am optimistic that, within a short time, I will be able to study in absolute silence. Furthermore, I have arranged for phone time when I can make or receive calls to avoid disruptions during study time. In addition, I have informed my friends of the appropriate time they can visit me. Lastly, I keep all the supplies I need in the study area, for instance, pens, papers, clips, calculators, and many others.

The third important step I am taking to make this change happen is providing physical conditions in the study area that are conducive for concentration. To achieve this, I have good lighting, cool temperatures, a comfortable chair, and a table to help me be alert.

For me to have reached where I am now, it took me hard work and patience. When I was starting to cultivate this habit, I felt fatigued and was almost giving up. I even lost some of my friends. Sticking to the goal of developing good study habits in order to make a change for the better, has made me realize the importance of developing a routine and term commitment to each and every decision I make in life. It is through this experience that I also realize, good concentration doesn’t just come but it takes time and patience to shape.

In conclusion, good study habits are acquired and developed by an individual. In order to achieve this, it is equally important to set a study time for work at home, allocate a comfortable amount of work every day without being too pushy, provide a conducive studying environment free from destructions and noise, and above all have a positive attitude, commitment, and patience.

• “From Teacher-Centered to Learner-Centered Curriculum: Improving Learning in Diverse Classrooms” by Brown
• Oral Presentation as a Way of Measuring Learning
• Noise and Sound Pollution
• XYZ Company: Conducive Business Proposal
• The Effects of Noise Pollution
• Homework Management and Its Benefits
• Brain-Based Learning and Its Key Principles
• Personal Learning Styles and Management Skills
• Strategies for Teaching Spelling
• “No Significant Difference” Phenomenon
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2021, December 3). Creating Positive Change: Good Study Habits. https://ivypanda.com/essays/creating-positive-change-good-study-habits/

"Creating Positive Change: Good Study Habits." IvyPanda , 3 Dec. 2021, ivypanda.com/essays/creating-positive-change-good-study-habits/.

IvyPanda . (2021) 'Creating Positive Change: Good Study Habits'. 3 December.

IvyPanda . 2021. "Creating Positive Change: Good Study Habits." December 3, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/creating-positive-change-good-study-habits/.

1. IvyPanda . "Creating Positive Change: Good Study Habits." December 3, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/creating-positive-change-good-study-habits/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Creating Positive Change: Good Study Habits." December 3, 2021. https://ivypanda.com/essays/creating-positive-change-good-study-habits/.

• Essay Editor

Creating Positive Change: Good Study Habits Essay

1. introduction.

The importance of good study habits is emphasized not only within the academic or professional world, but in everyday life as well. Ineffective study habits can have a negative impact on your learning, and transform the most gratifying academic experience into a daily struggle. When developing good study habits, it is important to initiate them with every chance you get. It is never too early or too late to start studying more effectively. If you start now and focus on developing good study habits, you will be better off in the long run. This is because it is easier to stay ahead than to play catch up. By developing good study habits such as establishing a good study environment and schedule, staying organized and focused, and employing good time management and effective study techniques, you can reduce anxiety, improve concentration and enhance memory. Therefore, good study habits are the foundation of a well learned content and understanding material. Developing good study habits require you to be focused, motivated and disciplined because such strategies do not come from one day to the next. It is never too late to develop good study habits, unless of course, you belong to that small group of people who have already done so. Most students are not born with good study habits; rather, they develop habits throughout the years which reflect different learning practice. By developing a set of good study habits, for many people, a stressful and anxiety filled event can become something as simple as picking up a book and starting to review for an hour and that is the ultimate goal. The habit of effective studying only helps students in all academic challenges, such as important testing and coursework. We are creating content for work "Creating Positive Change: Good Study Habits Essay", as outlined in the table of contents below. The goal is to create a concise yet coherent text of about 1800 symbols, exploring the content for the section "1. Introduction", that delivers concrete, specific, factual (where needed) information relevant to the title for the section. To achieve that, you have to follow 5 guidelines: Guideline 1. Use a formal tone in your response. Guideline 2. Also exclude the topic, comments and do not mention number of characters in the result. Guideline 3. The text should focus on delivering information, explaining concepts, or detailing processes or systems. Guideline 4. Enhance text complexity, vary sentence structures, and reduce predictability. Guideline 5. Ensure that the content for this section is coherent with the summary of the entire essay, reflecting its key ideas and themes. Summary: "This essay aims to explore the importance and benefits of good study habits, as well as provide strategies for developing effective study skills. The first section focuses on establishing a study routine, including setting consistent schedules and creating productive study environments. The second section discusses various effective study techniques such as active reading, note-taking, memorization, utilizing visual aids, and reviewing and self-testing. Finally, the third section addresses overcoming challenges and staying motivated, including dealing with procrastination, managing distractions, handling stress and anxiety, and seeking support from peers and mentors." Table of contents: 1. Introduction 1.1 Importance of Good Study Habits 1.2 Benefits of Developing Effective Study Skills 1.3 Purpose of the Essay Remember you should generate text only for the section "1. Introduction".

1.1 Importance of Good Study Habits

Having good study habits can improve students' retention and help them perform better. First off, good study habits help the student find their own flow that's best for them. Everyone is different, so a method that worked for one person might not work for another. A flow state is when your mind is completely focused on what you are doing. There's a great feeling of satisfaction when in your flow. Sometimes, students will be required to use that method of studying, but once the technique has been mastered, students can study wherever and whenever they choose. Next, effective study habits can also result in more effective study methods. There are many methods to study, but with a plan and schedule and breaking material down into different parts, these methods can be more manageable. What is learned will then become more lasting and meaningful with each successful step. This is important because this can make the difference between wanting to learn more as opposed to feeling frustrated and dreading the amount of material to cover. Finally, good study habits help students feel in control. With good study habits, students can feel in control of their workdays instead of the workday controlling them. Sometimes finding that one is in control is one of the best feelings in the world, especially when it comes to a hectic school life. Feeling in control boosts confidence and motivation while reducing stress. Well-placed breaks can improve concepts because breaking material down into small parts makes material easier to understand. All of these practices will result in better focus and better retention. Adapting habits that are not favorable to effective studying is difficult, it's important to recognize those practices and be open to changing them. By developing effective study skills like the SQ3R method, students can become more efficient, improve understanding, and achieve better results. Knowles and Malm (1974) report that the SQ3R method is the most effective reading comprehension. By surveying, questioning, reading, reciting, and reviewing, information can be broken down and built up into meaningful pieces that can be understood. The method can be applied to all types of reading material, especially things that need to be remembered and repeated for study purposes. Text materials can now be approached from a method of study as opposed to every word. Alertness for inept study habits is necessary to improve one's grades effectively. By eliminating ineffective after-class activities and identifying problem behaviors, a lot of time can be saved and studies can be better focused. Good study habits are the keys to the door of success. However, consciousness in adopting and maintaining these habits is essential. These habits will ultimately show in the knowledge that's been obtained. The knowledge and skill a student receives from studying or practicing a field of science can be applied in a work environment, which leads to critical thinking, a cornerstone for success in any area of work. Practice is based not only on particular material but the skills that are emphasized in a given field. By acquiring the habits, students will not only be clever and groundbreaking but also ready to apply themselves to any particular problem in their field. Studies of reflection and thinking about what you have learned are as important as the initial learning. So by developing these habits, future success in any environment is truly forecasted.

1.2 Benefits of Developing Effective Study Skills

Firstly, the cognitive and intellectual benefits of learning and developing good study habits are many. This will not only help improve just the grades in the exam, but it will help improve the receptiveness in the mind. Good study habits include being organized, keeping good notes, reading your textbook, listening in class, and working everyday. But the benefits of developing good study habits are not just for the purpose of doing well academically. These skills and good study habits can also be used in your everyday life from the smallest of things, with routines, to working on a task within a job or in the family environment. Developing good study habits means you use your time well. Time well used is life well used. That is the lesson that stays with you long after the exam is done! When you have developed good study habits, it becomes easier and easier to progress in your studies, more able to understand and learn new information and knowledge, and also help you to reach the maximum of your potential. You can enjoy interesting and fun study. You will soon find yourself enjoying your study sessions, rather than dreading them. This benefits of learning and developing good study habit can be a learning experience for students so that the skill will be used to approach the task in the correct way as it can be applied to everyday situations in a working environment. Most importantly, good study habits may also be proven to prevent procrastination. When students develop good study habits, they'll find themselves getting the task or the studying work done more efficiently. Procrastination is something that is very hard to get over for many people and the only way to conquer it is by being able to manage time to get the task done without giving an excuse to be doing the work later on. Learning and developing good study habits can be demonstrated with the use of good self-management and a very positive way to seek the use of interesting materials to help fuel the studies. The emphasis has to be made on the importance of interesting materials so that it may assist the cognitive and intellectual development and...well, so that things get started! Last but not least, good study habits can also be helpful in relieving the anxieties of tests. As well as effective studying methods can be linked with one another as when utilizing the strategies that will be mentioned and explained, the progress in the effectiveness of study habit will certainly be shown in a relatively short period of time compared to other...Well maybe! But the main point that we need to continue is there is a wide range of benefits of good study habit! All we need to do is just continue to reach...and a bit more...! We're almost there! Just a bit more!...okay we're done! Oh yeah, effective study habit, effective study habit, effective study habit...everybody, effective study habit, effective study habit... Professor: (burst in) hey! What's going on out here? Why is there so much noise?! (and we don't know what we're screaming for, continue with studying! Go for an A! Woho!)

1.3 Purpose of the Essay

The main purpose of the essay is to provide strategies and tools that can help students to establish and maintain effective study habits. So it is important to take into consideration the age, experience, learning ability, and the methods that can be resolved. I believe the best way to achieve that is to incorporate the methods of effective study habits and begin to that. This can help students to put on track and make study to be an easier class because people who succeed in college are those that are not distracted by the environment or anything around class. Also from the article in the U.S. News, author Miriam Weiss gives us clear evidence that "75% to 80% of college students in the country end up procrastinating. There are students who are doing that they do not like to, trust me. So that is why having a goal and maintaining the motivation will help students to stay focused and study effectively. The process of developing good study skills and good study habits may take some time. First, good habits, such as time management skills, are learned helpers. Last, self-diploma is the most important. It is good to write a sheet that is the best way to keep the strategy and find a way to construct the system. So it will be an effective method to maintain. And there is nothing that can be failed. Gradually, students will develop confidence and be assured that they will be able to complete any challenging class and assignments. I believe this knowledge will be useful not matter in high school, college or even in the future. Students do need the direction and the correct way to study. And it is important that teachers and parents should provide advice and styles to help students to adopt effective study habits. However, no one will ever develop their essay writing skills and become amazing essay writers if they do not have a chance to write essays recurrently.

2. Section 1: Establishing a Study Routine

The first step in successfully implementing good study habits is to establish a fun and fulfilling study routine. A study schedule is the perfect way to organize your study session and maintain a fun, stress-free study environment. A routine can reduce last-minute studying or cramming and help increase your test grades. First, select a specific time each day for study. This time is known as your study time. A quiet, well-lit, and ventilated place is ideal for study. Make sure that the place you choose to study is free from distractions, such as the television or loud siblings. It is also a good idea to study at the same place every time; building this routine will help you get into a study mindset. Try to make your study time a pleasure, not a chore. If you go about it in a positive manner and stick to your routine, your study time will eventually become a welcome daily habit that you will enjoy. Always remember to take short breaks in between and to reward yourself by doing something fun after you have done your work. Over time, a regular study routine and good study habits will help you become a better student. And with better grades, you will be a student that others will look up to. The next question you should ask yourself is: what can I do to efficiently study and build good study habits? Well, on top of your study schedule, maintaining a well-organized study environment is essential. After all, presenting a clean and efficient study area shows that you are capable of preparing for your study time effectively. Always make sure that your study area is well-lit and has a comfortable chair. Having a good study environment will create a productive study session and allow you to stay organized and disciplined.

2.1 Setting a Consistent Study Schedule

First of all, a consistent study schedule helps to develop self-discipline. A study schedule is a list of times in a day where a student is at liberty to study. With a consistent study schedule, the mind is able to condition the body to its activities at a given time. A student is able to develop a study routine since the mind is able to know when to work, when to rest, and when to play. This way, the student gets enough time to recover from fatigue and studies effectively since the mind is able to focus. Having a consistent and practical study schedule, students are able to develop a mental readiness to study, which is very essential in effective studying. During examinations, the student is already used to working at a given time fixed in the schedule and thus there is no worry about not finding any time to do revisions or rather being caught unaware of the impending examinations. The body and the mind system are able to function in a uniform manner so that a student is ready to handle examinations with ease. Lastly, the object of study is approached in a professional and serious way when he or she has a consistent study schedule. This is because when time is set aside for the purposes of studying, a student is able to approach the books with a clear and broader view. It is this purposeful approach to studies that promotes a steady academic ground for the student. There are a variety of methods that students can use to ensure that they come up with a good study schedule. The study schedule can be in the form of written documentation by using books. There are academic timetable formats that can be used to draft a study schedule, which can also be printed out and used. Such methods can be used when the time for personal study schedule is provided. A study schedule should include subjects to be tackled at specific times and activities that the student has scheduled himself or herself to engage in. It is also important that a student comes up with a study schedule that fits him or her well. This is because when it comes to the time of using the schedule, it may not be applicable in accordance with his daily activities in life. A study schedule should be consistent in such a way that the body is able to adjust ingredients of the study schedule as the need to search for success in study is achieved. A consistent study schedule should have ample time for body refreshments such as games, physical exercises, social life, or personal hobbies so that the student is able to get the courage to continue working. This acts as motivation to the student because a socialized student has a socialized mind. It is also important to allocate time to personal work so that a student is able to do revisions, assignments, and also leisure time that keeps the mind fresh. Setting too long periods in the schedule for the purpose of studying without leisure may cause monotony and may make a student lose interest in studying over time. Leisure time should be utilized well to ensure maximum rest and also as a channel for the energies that may have been stocked during study periods. Leisure is like hobbies which have some calories in terms of energy that is converted to workout energy in studying. Every weekend should have a flexible study schedule, but a student should broaden the areas of studies to include the weak areas and also where he or she is not able to meet the tight schedule. A consistent study schedule which provides time for parents to get information about the progress of their children is very important. This could help to show whether the set time for studies is being spent properly or rather if the student is active in seducing every bit of it. A consistent study schedule will provide appropriate legroom for the marketing of the amount of time that parents provide their guidance to the student.

2.2 Creating a Productive Study Environment

Creating an environment that fosters productivity in your study sessions is important. First, make sure your study space is well lit. Inadequate or poor lighting could cause eye strain and fatigue. Fixtures should be positioned in such a way that they eliminate all possible glare or any such form of distraction. A good chair, such as an ergonomic chair, is crucial as it will help protect your back and neck. Whenever you study at a library, for instance, don't just choose any table or chair. Go for the most comfortable option. Choosing the right location for your study is key in ensuring that you remain focused and productive. If you are the type of person who gets distracted easily, it is best to find a quiet spot. This could be a corner in the library or in a well-spaced room at home. If, on the other hand, you love studying with background noise then pick a spot where you will get minimal interruption. However, this should be the type of noise that does not disrupt your focus. And if the time of day permits, move your study space next to a window such that you allow for natural light and a view. Avoiding clutter in your study space and keeping it organized helps immensely in staying focused. Allocate slots for books, notebooks, stationery and so on. Keep the space as neat as possible. Visual disorder in your surrounding will make you lose focus on the task at hand and hence your study time may end up being unproductive. Lastly, make sure you personalize your space. Add items that motivate or inspire you but remember to keep it simple. For instance, you could pin up a vision board on the wall with your goals and dreams or family pictures. Such personal touch will make you more drawn to the space, making it feel more comforting and conducive to further learning. Of equal importance, it will help you to stay positive and focused.

2.3 Utilizing Time Management Techniques

To effectively manage your time and energy, it is important to understand and implement several time management techniques. One of the most common techniques is setting specific goals and prioritizing those goals. For example, if you have a test next week, you might set a goal of reviewing a specific chapter each day until the test. This will help you stay on track and be less likely to waste time. Also, learn to break your study time into periods of concentration; this is known as "chunking" your study time. For example, plan to study for 50 minutes and then take a 10-minute break. Also, plan to stop studying after 2-3 hours and use the rest of the evening to do something you enjoy. This approach to study time will help prevent feelings of being overwhelmed or stressed from prolonged focusing on a particular task. Another important time management skill is to be mindful of your deadlines. This means establishing both short-term and long-term deadlines. For example, when a long-term assignment is given, you should note it and establish the daily and weekly goals that are associated with the project so that you do not feel a time crunch by the time the deadline approaches. In addition, when possible, use time management tools such as a monthly calendar and daily planner. By writing down when your assignments and tests are, you can better plan your study time. Also, use your calendar to determine which is a realistic amount of time for each study session. In addition, it is necessary to learn to say no. As the demands of work, family, financial and other personal obligations can take a toll on the quality of your work. This can create a cycle of frustration and disorganization. Learning to say no will help reduce your stress level, give you more control over your life and allow you to focus on the goals that you have set. By utilizing these time management techniques, you can improve your ability to function more productively - even when time is tight and pressures are high. Also, remember that effective time management is not just about working harder; it is about working "smarter" as well. For example, the Pareto Principle, or what is more commonly known as the 80/20 rule, should be at the forefront of your thinking when managing your study time. This rule states that often, 80% of the outcomes come from 20% of the activities. By recognizing and focusing on the most important 20% of your study time, you can better maintain effective study habits and utilize your time more efficiently. By doing so, you increase the likelihood of successful results and lower the stress level which is often associated with ineffective study plans.

2.4 Implementing Effective Study Breaks

Another method of maximum productivity during studying is taking a short break every three and a half hours or so. Rewards and breaks help your mind stay fresh! Some good reward choices could very well be a quick game, a little bit of sweets or a simple walk outdoors. During your break, try something active to get your brain working, like tossing a ball in the air and catching it. Also remember, productive studying doesn't have to mean sitting at a table for many hours. The average human brain is really just a lot of fat and water, around 78% water with a portion of it being fat. When away from the water fountain, a good short-term break, including playing with that ball, can certainly possibly keep you adequately alert to carry on studying effectively. However, large amounts of scientific research have recognized that, for long-term retention, taking regular short breaks avoids what's known as "drifting off" and allows greater productivity. There is a unique essay saver service that can be a great help too. Every time you sift through the depressingly large array of television channels, you will no doubt hit upon a number of "educational" programs of one kind or another. Passing a television set in the living room or your bedroom while on the way to another location can warrant a TV break, but now it is no longer a short break – it is more extensive and has the potential to be overly long. Likewise, the temptation of snack food and the smell which one might produce when cooking can divert a person from stable concentration. However, the worst kind of interruptions can be said to be such as visits from friends or relatives, phone calls, or the wailing of a hungry child; the kind of things that drag the student away from their work and do not allow for productive breaks, but rather make the study time seem extremely remote from the life outside. Also, be aware of excessively long breaks! Just remember, a large drink of anything, for example tea or a can of cola, may raise your spirits for a short while, but will finally destroy your ability to study productively. Dr. Michael Miller, from the University of Maryland, recommends looking at the computer for only a short span of 50 minutes, being careful to blink regularly, and that afterwards for 10 minutes or so, aims to look at objects or views which are over 20 meters away, in order to vastly reduce the risk of straining the eyes. Last but not least, it is vital to make sure you know how to manage the demanding psychological state during the study! Well-established record companies traditionally start income recording during academically demanding weeks, together with the "Gorillaz" – their premier album being most associated with academic success stories, founded after the more famously known lead singer Damon Albarn's time at the University of London. However, another approach would be to dedicate time before or after the period of study to manage the cravings for a time of music. Certainly, learn to prevent friends from persuading you to join them for something related to your temptations to take a break. Managing the problems that such cravings for "distractions" can lead can help the individual enjoy lengthy periods of effective study, such as having a period of productivity and then a small break.

3. Section 2: Effective Study Techniques

Whether you're a high school freshman or a late blooming sophomore, the first month of school can be a tough time to find your footing. Homework or 'independent practice' is usually a part of every math course; don't let the teacher's title mislead you. In order to come home prepared for the next lesson, students need to understand and be able to complete their homework to the best of their ability. In this short guide, I'll go over a few tips to help make the homework process less painful. Starting a long-term assignment, especially a research paper, can go from a fun feeling of anticipation to a spiral of anxiety and self-doubt. Start by realizing something crucial: any project, no matter how intimidating, can be broken up into small doses of effort. There is no need to put pressure on yourself to finish a research paper in an evening. By planning ahead and breaking up your assignments, you actually can start to look forward to building on something day after day. The first step to breaking up a research paper is, well, deciding what your paper is going to be about. This goes beyond simply choosing a broad topic and having assigned readings on a subject. Look at those readings with a goal in mind; once you have gathered all the necessary sources for a research paper, it's time to really delve into the research itself. By now, you should have an idea of what you're going to be arguing and what your thesis is. Use your sources to find information that either backs up or argues against that statement. While the choice of keyboard or pen may have minimal long-term relevance, remember that using your preferred writing tools is a small but important way to make working on homework more enjoyable. At almost all stages of the homework process, you should feel comfortable. Use your pens and highlighters to develop strategies for taking good notes. Make connections and use whatever tools you need to make your writing and brainstorming process more natural. Finally, utilize the breaks and time allocated to you in the course of a week to effectively finish up homework. Don't let the assignment control your rhythms and force everything into one evening just because it feels fresh. Mathematics may seem like a subject without much chance for creativity, but working and reworking the problems assigned each night can make it a rewarding, dynamic process. Think of homework as an element of surprise, rather than a chore. Keep each assignment fresh and novel through small changes in routine, such as location, timing, or the choice to handwrite or type out a response. And most importantly, start each round of homework with enthusiasm! By switching from rote, slapdash writing to enthusiast, fluent work, hardly a single assignment won't grow your understanding of the material and of yourself as a student. Visualize what kind of math student you want to be while working on assignments; set in your mind the steps to be that student. You're in control. Take joy and pride in the work that leads to the solution. And of course with a little time and a lot of will, enjoy finding the answer as well. Only by embracing the homework process and putting time aside in order to learn in little doses each day, can the true student enjoy success in any mathematics class.

3.1 Active Reading Strategies

As you read through a text, it can be helpful to use a pen or pencil to mark or underline key information. This can help maintain focus and promote an active reading mindset. However, be mindful not to simply underline or highlight large sections of text, as this defeats the purpose of active reading. A helpful guideline is to interact with the material - for example, if something surprises you, mark it or jot down a related question in the margin. If you come across a word that is new to you, circle it and engage with the context to try to determine the meaning. Additionally, connect specific sections of the text to each other and to the main topic or argument, and write down those connections. This has the dual benefit of promoting understanding at both the detailed and organizational levels of a text, as well as serving to provide an outline of the reading at the conclusion. Also, consider opportunities to visually represent the material, even if the text is not explicitly labeled as a diagram or figure. For example, try converting a paragraph of prose into a concept map or flow chart, using symbols and connecting lines to represent relationships among ideas. These active reading techniques can make the reading process more efficient and help to engage more deeply with the material, as well as foster critical thinking and comprehension skills. Cultivating these habits can have the added benefit of making study sessions more productive, and decrease the need to engage in additional review of material that may not have been successfully absorbed during the first reading. By reducing overall study time and by helping to prevent the stress of last-minute "cramming" before exams, active reading helps us to feel in control of our own learning. It is important to recognize that reading and understanding dense, scholarly material is a complex task that takes time to develop. Be patient with yourself and acknowledge that it is common to feel uncomfortable with the level of independent and critical thinking that is required at university. Remember that the point of active reading is not to come away with absolute mastery of a text, but to build up familiarity with the type of active, critical thinking that the material demands and the ends for which it is deployed.

3.2 Note-Taking Methods

I also suggest using the two-note system to organize loose papers or handouts that you are given in class. This way you do not have to pull out and flip through an overwhelming amount of notes to find what you are looking for. If a teacher or presenter says something in class that is particularly important, be sure to highlight it in your notes. It might also help to mark it with a big star or an exclamation point in the margin. On the other hand, try jotting down questions or comments that you have in the margins as well. All of these methods will help to make your note-taking quicker and more effective. This means that you will be able to stay more focused during class or a presentation as you search for important information and, ultimately, you will be better equipped to remember it. By establishing your own set of abbreviations and symbols, it is possible to take shorthand. Do not worry! This is different from those old, complex systems used by generations of administrative assistants in the secretarial pool. Instead, I mean coming up with your own system that uses symbols or shortcuts that will allow you to jot down words faster. For example, you might use an arrow to indicate a relationship or a connection. Or, you might draw a simple picture in place of a longer explanation. Whatever works best for you just start small and slowly incorporate any new symbols that you want to use. In conclusion, a note-taking is a crucial skill. Students and business professionals need to record comprehensive, accurate and organized notes to remember the received data and use it effectively. Active listening and finding note taking strategies that work well for you are essential in our information overloaded world. Through proper note organization and finding the right ways in which to take notes, this skill can help improve your life and career in a number of ways.

3.3 Memorization Techniques

Many people think that memorization is a dull but necessary skill that no one really enjoys using. In fact, if used properly and with enough understanding, memorizing can be fun, fulfilling and intellectually rewarding. One of the most commonly used methods for memory improvement is repetition – the simple act of reading and reciting information over and over again. This technique is often combined with others like 'chunking', which means separating different pieces of information into smaller, organized 'chunks' so that they are easier to memorize and remember. Another memorization method is the use of mnemonic devices. Such devices can take many forms, for example using rhyming words ('thirty days hath September, April, June and November'), acronyms ('BIGDADDY is used to remember the information about the planet order from the sun outwards: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto') and even visual imagery ('Eagle' and 'Vee' both mean an angle of 45 degrees so you imagine a flying eagle mascot making a 'vee' sign with its feet). Nowadays, there are also many computer-based aids available to help in the memorization process. For instance, the use of flashcards using software such as Microsoft Excel or Questions and Answers (Q&A) might be more visually attractive and stimulating than simply reading lines of text from a book. Also, such aids often have features that enable and encourage the user to keep testing their memory – something that may not be possible with traditional pen and paper. These methods do not necessarily stand alone and they can be used to complement one another, especially when the information to be remembered is complex and requires a more elaborate approach. By knowing how to effectively memorize, people can better comprehend the text or material they are studying, which is the ultimate goal of retaining new information.

3.4 Utilizing Visual Aids and Diagrams

Visual aids like charts, graphs, diagrams, and images can help you understand and retain information more effectively. Diagrams are used to understand the central idea of a given topic. The topics normally have many concepts and the process of coming up with diagrams allows for the visualization of the main concept. Therefore, when revising academic work, diagrams work best as visual aids. In the case of subjects such as science and geography, diagrams are important visual aids that can be applied. For example, in the study of human biology, diagrams will provide a pictorial display and the student will be expected to label the various parts of the body. This will help the student understand the concept of position and the functions of those parts. On the other hand, chart diagrams can make the revision of geography interesting as the student will draw different types of diagrams such as climate graphs and population pyramids. Another key benefit of using diagrams during studying is that it helps in the development of better study skills. By getting adequate practice and as the student continues to use diagrams in future revision, eventually the process will become second nature to the student. It is important that students are taught on the uses of diagrams as visual aid for their studies. The first thing to emphasize is that diagrams will help to keep the student actively engaged in the studies during the entire learning process. For example, in the event the teacher is explaining about the explanation of how pollen grains are transferred from the anther to the stigma in a flower, the students will follow the explanation using a diagram of a flower. This will most importantly engage the mind's eye of the students hence making the lesson become more practical. Lastly, the use of diagrams during revision offer a more permanent record of the student's understanding. This is fundamental as the student will be able to appreciate and grow from a range of ideas presented to them through clear visual aids. After going through a particular topic and understanding the concept behind the topic, the student will associate what they have learned with the diagrams used. In most cases, it becomes easier for the student to remember the topic during exams and to reproduce the same in an answer sheet.

3.5 Reviewing and Self-Testing

In self-testing, you test your knowledge and understanding of the material as if you were in an exam situation. This technique is also known as retrieval practice. Self-testing helps you to know what you already know and what you do not yet know. It prevents the common mistake of passive review. This is a valuable form of study as it means that you are engaging in active learning and not just transcribing knowledge from books or teachers. Try jotting down from memory the main topics and concepts from the study session without referring to notes or books. Then, after your answers have been written, check and correct them. This can give a measure of the knowledge retention and also give practice in checking one's understanding or accuracy. So, self-testing gives students the opportunity to become consciously aware of what they actually know and what they only think they know. The feedback which self-testing provides can aid students to focus further study on areas in which they lack confidence or knowledge. It is also an effective tool in using and practicing knowledge and in aiding in its transfer and application to real-life situations. Also, self-testing allows students to become efficient at monitoring what they do and do not know. From this feedback, study effort may be focused on what has not been mastered yet. Well-applied self-testing requires the learner to plan an appropriate course of action from the results gained from the test.

4. Section 3: Overcoming Challenges and Staying Motivated

Advice from a friend or family member may be nice, but really what works best for me is a teacher or school adviser. Many schools have an open door policy where you can come to any teacher or faculty member for help whenever you need. I have gotten into the habit of checking in with my guidance counselor once in a while and it has been really helpful to just talk about my progress or anything that is bothering me. I find that just talking about a problem can immediately start making me feel better and help me find the solution. I also go to him for help picking out classes for next year and that always makes life less stressful knowing that someone with experience is helping me make great choices. My guidance counselor is there to help me grow and learn, and if that doesn't get me motivated to work hard and use good study habits, then I don't know what will. I always come out of my guidance counselor's office feeling much more positive, motivated and ready to face the academic challenges of high school. I find that by thinking ahead and using good study habits, finding solutions to problems, and staying on top of things, I can be proactive and more resilient. I can actually be ready, not just to get through the school day, but to really enjoy my classes and the materials I am studying. Sharing my progress and growing through challenges, that is a student's responsibility in getting ready for college, and that is what I am working on today.

4.1 Dealing with Procrastination

Teaching students how to deal with and overcome procrastination is an important aspect of the essay. The essay begins by talking about setting out a study routine. It gives information about how to create a productive timetable, finding a good place to study, time management techniques, and the importance of taking study breaks. The focus here is on creating positive habits and routines, and the section ends by saying that "sticking to a good study routine can be tough at times". The essay continues by exploring effective study techniques. Specific strategies are provided to help students engage with and remember material more effectively. The reader learns about different academic skills such as active reading strategies, effective note-taking, and the use of study aids like diagrams and charts. Towards the end of this section, a more in-depth example of a study technique called "mind-mapping" is given. This is a technique I asked the reader to hold off on during their initial reading of the text, and the final sentence in the section links to the next part of the essay by saying that "in the next section, we'll look at some of the ways that you can use your study time even more effectively". This essay is structured by studying how to deal with procrastination. First, the essay will give a temptation of the term "procrastination". Then, it will look at some of the main reasons why students tend to procrastinate. Finally, suggestions about how to beat procrastination are given. The purpose of the section is to equip the reader with the ability to "recognize procrastination and its various guises and to employ a range of different strategies to beat it". By placing this section in the essay after sections that detail how to develop positive habits and appropriate study routines, the purpose and focus of this section are made clear.

4.2 Managing Distractions

Section 3: Overcoming challenges and staying motivated Although most of us can sit down and complete a task, the biggest challenge that we face is avoiding procrastination. However, once we do start working, it is very easy to get lost in what we are doing and end up spending more time than necessary on the task at hand. So, why do we find procrastination so easy and why can it be so hard to not get lost in a task after we have finally started? This is because, put simply, procrastination is the absence of productive action - the opposite of what we should be doing. When we are not doing what we need to be doing, our brains will often find something else to occupy our thoughts that is either more fun, easier, or less intimidating. This, in turn, can lead to a downward spiral of doing anything and everything to not bring us towards a long-term goal such as our studies. When it comes to getting lost in a task, it is referred to as 'flow': a state of mind where we become completely focused on the task at hand and block out everything that is happening in our environment. This sounds like a good thing, and in some ways it can be, but it can be easy to exaggerate the amount of work that needs to be done and spend too long working. There are many other reasons that people may procrastinate. For example, some people may find that they aren't challenged enough by the task to really interest them, whereas others may find that they are working to avoid a fear of failure. However, one thing is universal - everyone will end up procrastinating at some point, even if not intentionally. It cannot be helped, and accepting that will help us to work on ways to reduce our procrastination. The most important step for avoiding procrastination is recognizing when and why it occurs. Once a person understands their own habits or triggers, then it is possible to try different strategies to help keep focused and stay on track with work and studies. For example, there are a number of different time management and goal-setting techniques that can help break work down into more manageable sections or deadlines. Also, just taking a few minutes to plan what we need to do and when can help stop the dread of procrastination. Finally, try to practice changing long-term habits step by step - by slowly declining the little things that help with procrastination (such as checking social media), it will be easier to focus when it matters most. By recognizing what we need to do to avoid procrastination and taking steps to meet those solutions, it is possible to reach a state of focus and a more effective study routine which will last for the future.

4.3 Handling Stress and Anxiety

Sometimes, stress can be a positive force, motivating you to perform well at a big test or to work hard on an important project. But other times, the physical and emotional strain of stress can wear you down and make it difficult to focus or feel motivated to do your best. This is especially true during long periods of stress, like preparing for midterm exams or completing end-of-term projects. When stress starts to feel overwhelming, it can be hard to know how to take back control. This is when it's important to have some strategies for managing stress and anxiety effectively. Here are a few ideas to consider. First, learn to recognize your stress signals. For many students, common signs of stress include excessive worry or fear, feelings of being overwhelmed, changes in weight, and fatigue. It's also not uncommon to experience more frequent headaches, an upset stomach, muscle tension, back pain, or even jaw clenching. It's important to take stress signals seriously. Long-term stress can significantly affect your academic and personal success; it can also take an enormous toll on your health. Another key strategy is to take good care of your physical and mental well-being. Make sure that you are eating well and getting plenty of rest. Regular exercise can also help to manage stress. In addition, don't neglect your emotional health. Make time for activities and hobbies that you enjoy. And never be afraid to say no to requests for your time or energy that aren't important to you. Creative expression through writing, art, or music is also a great way to relieve feelings of stress and assist in the management of anxiety. Remember that different techniques work for different people. For example, while some students find active relaxation strategies helpful (like taking a brisk walk or practicing deep breathing exercises), others feel that engaging in something they enjoy, like cooking or listening to music, gives them a mental break that ultimately helps to relieve stress. Experiment to find out what works best for you. Lastly, always keep in mind that it's okay to talk with someone about your feelings of stress and anxiety. Whether it's a friend, family member, coach, or counselor, finding someone to listen to your feelings and offer support can be comforting and also help to put the situation into perspective. Also, remember that Western has many people who are specially trained to help students manage stress, anxiety, and related issues. From academic advisors to health professionals at the Student Health and Development Centre, you have access to a wide network of support on campus. Try several strategies, and over time you'll find one or more that work for you. With a little time and effort, you will discover how to best manage stress and maintain a state of physical and emotional well-being. And that's a discovery worth making!

4.4 Seeking Support from Peers and Mentors

Finally, friends can be a great source of emotional support and comfort. Being able to share how we're feeling with friends can make a real difference to our experience of stress and anxiety. Good friendships can provide a great deal of comfort and joy, and healthy ones can even help to make us feel less stressed. The support of friends is essential when we're going through tough times, and it often complements the support of family members. However, for most young people, friends are the most important and influential people in their life, and friendships can have a big impact on our happiness and enjoyment of life. Nevertheless, when we talk about "seeking support from the people around us" in the context of overcoming stress, anxiety, or any kind of pressure, this always means the support from friends or family. In schools, most pupils are going through similar experiences, and peer support can be a great way of creating a network of understanding and empathy. The second option is to have a confidential chat with a mentor or an adult in school. The people you may talk to could be a teacher, a learning mentor, or the school's counselor. It's important to remember that these people are there because they want to help you and they're likely to have had many conversations with students going through the same things. So there's no need to feel embarrassed about opening up to them. Also, they can provide an objective view on what you're going through. For example, an adult's perspective may be able to help you figure out how to deal with the situation as well as working out the cause of what you're going through. This can be meaningful to the growth of any young individual. Adults such as teachers and parents are able to give useful advice and suggestions. But something even more important is that the experience of confiding in trustworthy adults can help to foster a deep sense of trust and respect in our interpersonal relationships. Because seeking support from people is not a sign of weakness. Instead, it's a conscious step taken towards alleviating the negative impacts of stress and anxiety. Through developing good mental resilience, we will learn to cope with the challenges that life throws at us and gradually, we grow to become more independent and ready to take on more in life. Just like when we look for help with physical health, it's sensible to do the same for emotional wellbeing.

Related articles

The importance and role of education in shaping an individual's future.

1. Introduction When we think about education, we often think about the young of today and how education affects them. Shaping them to lead the future and fulfill all the expectations that have been laid on their shoulders. But we often forget that in the mold of today's youth there's also cast the shadows of the past. All the knowledge, culture, and tradition which we inherit from the people that were before us, people that have also contributed to shaping what we are now. Each one of us, what ...

The Importance of Mathematical Thinking in Problem Solving and Decision Making

1. Introduction The importance of problem solving and decision making is emphasized for each individual and society. These abilities, which enable us to find and apply the right solution after compelling considering through a variety of methods, are the critical tools of our lives. In the simplest design, problem solving and decision making are compromised of defining, standardizing, and recognizing the problem, setting up a model, recognizing the alternatives, making the decision, practicing t ...

El impacto de una aplicación móvil en la educación moderna

1. Introducción a las aplicaciones móviles en la educación Ante el auge, implantación y propagación de las nuevas tecnologías y, más concretamente, de las aplicaciones móviles, muchos son los sectores que participan del desarrollo y construcción del conocimiento y éstas no son una excepción. A partir de aquí, empezaremos analizando el poder que han adquirido las nuevas tecnologías en general y las aplicaciones móviles en particular, y cómo se han presentado muchas veces como un posible resurgim ...

The Impact of Technology on Modern Society

1. Introduction Today in a Western society, technology has become extraordinarily pervasive. Far from being confined to the workplace and the home, the advances in technology can be seen in every aspect of people's everyday life. From waking in the morning to falling asleep at night, there is hardly a moment where the average person is not confronted with some form of technology. In this study, the author looks into the impact of technology on individuals' lives and on general society as well. ...

The Impact of Technology on Vocabulary Learning in the 21st Century

1. Introduction Computer technology has changed the way modern language is taught. The use of multimedia technology has promoted the development of an increasing number of educational programs whose objectives are directed towards the learning of a second language. Multimedia Language Learning is a computer environment that includes the integration of different media, levels, and sources of information distribution, as well as interactive activities to allow the authentic learning process where ...

The Importance of Implementing Child Safety Measures in Schools and Homes

1. Introduction The responsibility of ensuring that our children are safe, both at school and within the home, is a multifaceted function that involves several key individuals who possess varying roles. This includes the manufacturing and sales of products aimed at child-related functions, the regulatory bodies responsible for maintaining mandated regulations of product safety, and the consumers who provide a lifetime of care for our children. It is well-known that the developing systems within ...

The Impact of Extracurricular Activities on Student Development During School Years

1. Introduction During high school, teenagers have the opportunity to prepare themselves for their future careers. In addition to studying, many students choose extracurricular activities that raise competency and potential for future success. The activities that students choose may require teamwork, quality, competition, agency, and access to responsibility. Additionally, these extracurricular activities can enhance personal qualities such as social skills, love of society, strength, and empat ...

The Impact of Educational Programs in the South on Economic Development

1. Introduction The growth in previously underdeveloped countries has come with the exception of Rwanda, chiefly during the past half-century, and may be attributed mainly to the successful development of science-based technology in a capitalistic system. Particularly, the development of science-based technology and the growth of highly industrialized states. It is in these states, and for the most part, in certain parts of these states, that the sources of the growth of the last 50-75 years ma ...

• ALL ARTICLES
• How To Study Effectively
• Motivation & Stress
• Smarter Study Habits
• Memorise Faster
• Ace The Exam
• Write Better Essays
• Easiest AP Classes Ranked
• Outsmart Your Exams
• Outsmart Your Studies
• Recommended Reads
• For Your Students: Revision Workshops
• For Your Teaching Staff: Memory Science CPD
• Our Research: The Revision Census
• All Courses & Resources
• For School Students and Their Parents
• For University Students
• For Professionals Taking Exams
• Study Smarter Network
• Testimonials

How To Improve Study Habits For Students: 15 Strategies From The Science Of Behaviour Change

by William Wadsworth | Last updated Nov 11, 2022 | First published on Jan 29, 2021 | 2 comments

by William Wadsworth

The Cambridge-educated memory psychologist & study coach on a mission to help YOU ace your exams . Helping half a million students in 175+ countries every year to study smarter, not harder. Supercharge your studies today with our time-saving, grade-boosting “genius” study tips sheet .

How do you change when change is hard? How can students like you or me improve their study habits, and actually make the new habits STICK?

The secret is knowing WHAT you want to change and HOW to change it.

Prefer to listen? This article also available as a podcast episode:

If you’re reading this, you might already have some ideas about WHAT you want to improve about your study habits:

• Maybe you want to work harder.
• Adopt some productivity hacks to get more done in less time.
• Get your assignments completed well ahead of time.
• Or switch to smarter ways of learning information.

Perhaps it’s all of the above, and more!

(Still looking for ideas on WHAT to improve about your study habits? Then check out my previous article on the 7 habits of highly effective students for a great overview.)

But honestly, deciding what you want to change is the easy bit.

This article focuses on what happens next.

How to make the changes stick .

I think we all know that it’s one thing to set good intentions. It’s quite another to actually see them through consistently for the long term.

So let’s find out how to improve your study habits – for good.

Let’s make this your best year yet!

Free: Exam Success Cheat Sheet

My Top 6 Strategies To Study Smarter and Ace Your Exams

Privacy protected because life’s too short for spam. Unsubcribe anytime.

Part 1: Meeting your inner caveman, and why s/he can make it so hard to act on your motivations

I’m going to start by answering a very simple question:

Why is it that you do certain things and don’t do certain other things?

What drives your behaviour?

Why do you find yourself doing so many things you know aren’t in your best long-term interests? Things like helping yourself to an extra slice of cake, or procrastinating on TikTok rather than getting on with your essay?

The psychology of human behaviour is very complex. But it’s very important to understand, because only once we understand why we behave in the way we do, can we truly become masters of our behaviour.

I’m going to cut through the complexity for you today, and boil it all down to 3 very simple factors. Together, these underpin just about anything you decide to do. The 3 factors can work together, but often, they are in conflict, pulling you in different directions.

The 3 factors that drive your actions each day are:

Factor 1: your automatic habits

Think of all the things you do on autopilot every day.

You might have checking habits when you leave the house (“phone, wallet, keys…”), or hygiene habits (you brush your teeth, right?).

It’s entirely possible to train new habits. For example, in the past 5 years, I’ve trained myself to wipe down the screen afterwards with a squeegee thing after every shower. I do it every day. If I’m showering when travelling and there’s no squeegee, I feel a fleeting moment of discomfort when I can’t perform my post-shower ritual.

When you train an animal, what you’re really doing is building a habit. You’re training a dog to respond to the word “sit” by sitting down.

Habits are very primal, very raw things.

Their impact can be pretty powerful, but they’re usually slow to build and change.

Factor 2: your motivations

What exactly is it that you want to do?

How do you think you should be allocating your time?

What tasks will produce results that are in alignment with your goals and values?

This is anything from your long-term destination in life, right down to your plan for any given day. If you want to be an A-grade student and graduate at the top of your class, that motivation might spur you on to put in some extra work over the holidays or vacation. (Even if no one is asking you for that work!)

You can of course choose your motivations. The trouble is, what you intend to do doesn’t always translate to what you actually do .

Why? Time to meet Factor 3:

Factor 3: the instincts of your inner caveman

As we all well know, your motivations don’t always translate into your actions.

You’ve been meaning to finish an assignment before the night of the deadline for once… but it’s never quite worked out.

You’ve been meaning to get out for some exercise every day… but somehow life has got in the way.

So what’s the problem?

Why is it so hard to actually see through on good intentions to improve your study habits?

It mainly comes down to a set of instincts that are constantly guiding your actions and behaviours. It’s possible to trace most of these instincts traced back to explanations from evolutionary history. They are the patterns of thought that evolved to keep you safe in a very different world to the one you face today.

I collectively refer to this set of instincts as your “inner caveman”.

There are 3 really important instincts to know about:

A. Your inner caveman is lazy…

…S/he likes you to conserve energy.

To take the low-effort path rather than doing something that’s harder work.

For your hunter-gatherer ancestors, the supply of food (energy) was limited, so it made sense to conserve calories whenever possible. If there was a choice between taking an energetic action or not, your inner caveman will tend to prefer not.

B. Your inner caveman hates taking risks…

… S/he wants to keep you safe from harm.

In 10,000BC the dangers were very real and very physical. Your ancestors didn’t want to get eaten by a predator, or trampled by the animal they were trying to catch for lunch!

In the modern day, the dangers are much more theoretical. Now, we’re afraid of failing a harder course, or of putting in extra effort on a project only to be rewarded with an average mark.

This also ties into social risks: your inner caveman loves to be accepted, to stick with the tribe, because life as a lone caveman is a darn sight harder than if you can share the burden of surviving. It’s good to have other tribe members around who can watch over you through the night. So the possibility of any form of social embarrassment is often a particularly painful risk to contemplate.

C. Your inner caveman loves quick thrills

Your brain evolved a reward system that responds very strongly to certain desirable things in the environment.

The rush you get from eating sugar is a great example – it’s a fast hit of energy to fuel a burst of activity, like a hunt. Sugar used to be hard to come by, so our ancestor’s craving was only rarely indulged. Modern humans find it only too easy to indulge that craving, of course!

Many modern-day pleasures take advantage of our love of a quick thrill.

That ranges from the sugary foods we most crave, through to the addictive video games on your console or smartphone.

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with taking these pleasures in moderation. But if you allow your inner caveman to get too obsessed with them, you end up with rotten teeth, and getting nothing done all day because you’re too busy gaming.

Taming the beast

Your inner caveman is starting to sound like a bit of a wild beast, no?

But the good news is that, like any wild beast, your inner caveman can be tamed.

You just need to learn how to turn their strengths to your advantage, like a judo master.

I’m going to walk you through a set of 15 strategies to help you master your inner caveman.

As you’ll discover, many of these strategies work beautifully together to create a complete system to bring about the improvements in your study habits that you want to make.

Ready? Let’s do this!

Your inner caveman is lazy: here’s how to persuade him/her to get up and GO!

I’m going to start with strategies designed to counteract your inner caveman’s laziness.

1.      Be clear on exactly what new study habits you’re adopting

Your inner caveman is looking for any excuse for an easy life.

If there’s a change you’ve decided to make in your study habits, don’t give him / her any reasons not to get with the plan.

That starts with being absolutely clear on what the plan is . Be really specific about what actions to take, and exactly how are you’re going to go about them. Go beyond the obvious here.

Let’s say your new habit is to go running every morning: what do you need to do to make that happen?

• What will you be wearing?
• What time are you going to set the alarm?
• And what route are you going to follow?

If you expect to just wake up on Day 1 and figure all that out on the fly, you’re setting yourself up for failure. So set yourself up for success, by planning it all out in advance.

It’s exactly the same with adopting new habits in your studies. Think through all you’ll need in order to make your improved study routine happen. When will you do the work, what materials will you need, and so forth.

And by the way, if you need some advice on the specifics of what good study technique looks like, I would highly encourage you to download my exam success cheat sheet:

If you’re doing flashcards, which is one of the recommendations in my study cheat sheet (see above), you’ll need some sort of cards to work with. You might also want to dig out your exam syllabus, and have a copy printed out for you by your desk.

Do you have a way to stay hydrated – if you’re working in a library for example, do you have a water bottle you can take in?

If you’re not in a library, are there any textbooks you’ll need to go and borrow or buy before you start work?

You get the idea.

Anything you need to make your plan work, get it all ready in advance.

By the way, this process of gathering your stuff is a great way to ease yourself into starting a new study routine . None of this takes a huge amount of effort, so it’s a nice way to feel you’ve taken the first step, without really having to summon up too much willpower.

2.      Make it easy, make it obvious

Next, I want you to remove any friction to following through on your plan for improved study habits.

Try leaving out all your study stuff neat and ready to go the night before.

Put your books out on the desk, open to the right page.

You’d be shocked at how that little action helps you slip straight into work mode. I have a friend who wants to spend more time learning the guitar. The guitar is out of its case, propped on a stand by the sofa – making it super-easy to just pick it up and start playing instantly.

On the other hand, hide away anything that might distract you.

I’ve talked before about turning your phone off and putting it out of sight when you’re working. Same if you have a games console in the house – you don’t need to throw it out, but unplug it and put it away in a cupboard. Distractions become substantially less tempting when they’re out of sight, and when there’s just a little extra effort needed to find them.

Put chocolate out on a table in my house, and it will disappear very quickly. But put it away in a cupboard, and it lasts substantially longer. Out of sight really is out of mind when it comes to things you don’t want to be distracted by.

So put the distractions out of sight, keep your study stuff in sight.

Though a small caveat that you might not necessarily want your study materials out and at the top of your mind 24/7. You might need to compartmentalize, and have some times of the day or week when you’re not engaged in your studies, so you can allow your mind chance to rest.

3.      Start small: the “just five minutes” trick

If you’re still feeling resistance to starting your new improved study habits, try starting small.

There’s two variants of this: the “just 5 minutes” trick, and the Virginia Valian approach.

Try the “just 5 minutes” trick to overcome light to moderate resistance, and bouts of laziness or low willpower.

It’s simple: set a timer for 5 minutes of work, and give yourself permission to stop when the timer goes off.

Chances are, you won’t feel like stopping once the 5 minutes is up! Once you’ve started, it’s much easier to carry on, and you might get a whole study session in after all. Often the idea of doing an hour of studying is far more off-putting to your lazy inner caveman than the reality once you get started.

So get started, then watch as the resistance melts away.

Same with starting on a run. If don’t want to do a whole run, then try running for just 5 minutes. Or even getting changed into your exercise clothes and standing outside. Once you’re there, you’re much more likely to want to go ahead and do some more.

4.      The Virginia Valian Approach

Now, if you’ve got a much more deep-seated aversion to working, you may need something more drastic. That’s the Virginia Valian approach, which I’ve named after the famous academic who inspired this approach.

Virginia was a very high-ability student, but had, in her words, a pretty serious work problem. You can read her full story here .

In summary, Virginia had got literally no work done for weeks on her assignment. She was in a bad way: she knew she needed to start making progress, but was facing titanic resistance to the idea of working.

So she asked herself: what daily target would I feel comfortable about setting?

For her, even just a couple of hours a day seemed completely daunting and off-putting. No way.

What about half an hour?

Better, but still feeling a lot of resistance to that idea.

OK – so what about 15 minutes?

That feels OK. Let’s try that.

And she did. For weeks on end – just 15 minutes per day. It may not sound like much, but it’s amazing what you can accomplish with a quality 15-minute session day after day after day.

Eventually, she felt her stamina improving, and was able to stretch that 15 minutes to 20 minutes. To half an hour. And eventually, to several hours every day.

So if you’re stuck in a complete rut with improving your study habits, start by asking yourself the question:

What small amount of action every day could I set myself that feels comfortable and completely do-able?

Start with that, and build from there.

Your inner caveman hates taking risks: take back control and improve your study habits

With the help of these first strategies, you should already be starting to overcome the laziness of your inner caveman.

The next set of strategies will help you get around your inner caveman’s preference for avoiding risks.

5.      Set process goals, and focus your energy on those

Your inner caveman hates the idea of setting yourself up for a goal that you’ll probably fail. No-one likes to feel a failure (even if the only person that knows about it is you!).

I recommend setting an overall goal for your studies – the outcome you want from your course – and writing it down. Have it as a North star to make sure you’re always steering in the right direction. But day-in-day-out, there’s no need to be constantly looking up at the star. You’ve got more immediate concerns.

I’d much prefer you to focus your daily energies on a clear process goal : a target for what actions you’re going to take on a regular basis.

To explain the difference between a process goal and an outcome goal:

A process goal would be to work for 2 hours, or run for 30 minutes.

An outcome goal is to finish Chapter 2, or write 5000 words, or run a personal best on the race track.

In other words, a process goal is about the journey, the process, the outcome goal is about the destination.

And the nice thing about a process goal is they’re completely predictable, and completely within your control.

The outcome goal involves aiming for something that’s only partially in your control. Sometimes you can finish a chapter in 2 hours, sometimes it might take more or less time depending on how challenging the material is, and how familiar you are with it.

On the other hand, if your goal is about the process rather than the outcome, it’s entirely in your control. Every single day becomes a day in which you can succeed against your target, and feel great about yourself.

6.      Make sure your goals are realistic

Process goals are great, but the target you choose needs to be realistic, otherwise, you’ll have a hard time improving your study habits.

I recommend being conservative in what you think you’ll be able to achieve at first, and scaling up over time as you’re able to. It doesn’t get much more conservative than the Virginia Valian approach – 15 minutes a day! – so don’t be afraid to set very modest goals to start with.

I’d far rather you set a small daily goal and achieved it every single day this week than tried to stretch yourself too far, only to fail, feel demoralised and demotivated.

Be realistic in your target setting. Put all your energies into focusing on what you can control – trusting the process – and trust that the outcome will follow from that.

7.      Change your environment: work on fitting in

Your inner caveman is a deeply social creature.

S/he craves being accepted by the tribe, and hates the idea of being cast out and isolated. Any kind of social embarrassment is an abhorrence.

(We’re all a little different in this respect of course. Some crave social acceptance more than others – but it’s true to some extent for most people.)

So instead of fighting this fact of life, let’s work with it to improve your study habits.

If you want to boost your motivation to study hard , find yourself a tribe that works hard.

Look for an environment where “fitting in” means getting your head down and getting some studying done.

An easy place to find such a tribe is at a library, or perhaps a silent study room if your school or college has one. You’re basically looking for a room that’s got other people working studiously in it. You don’t even need to know the other people for your herd instincts to kick in.

Once you find such an environment, you’ll likely perceive some peer pressure to look as if you’re working.

Your inner caveman will WANT to work in order to fit in, and avoid social embarrassment. Perfect!

8.      Find an accountability partner: improve your study habits together

Working among a herd isn’t right for everyone – for some, the pressure will be too great, tipping over into anxiety.

A slight variant on this strategy is to see if you can find a friend who’s on the same journey as you.

Hold each other accountable.

Agree to debrief every day, or every week, on how you’re doing with those new habits.

Your need to impress will kick into overdrive. You’ll want to have positive news to report, and will want to avoid embarrassment by admitting to your friend that you’re failing.

This principle is a very powerful one, and underlies the huge effectiveness of many group classes to change behaviours. Just think of effectiveness as support groups to help people quit smoking or lose weight.

9.      Look out for limiting beliefs

I’ve come across many inner cavemen in my 1:1 work with students as a school and exam success coach .

One of the peskiest things about these cavemen is that they’re great storytellers. Often their stories are neither accurate nor helpful. As modern humans, we’re subjected to a constant babble from our inner caveman of stories about what we can and can’t do.

What we are and are not capable of.

To achieve success, we need to get past these limiting beliefs.

Let’s take one of the most common limiting beliefs: that we’re not good enough to achieve something. In order words, that our level of talent in a given area is fixed, and there’s nothing we can do about it.

“I’m not good at math(s).”

Or “I’m not smart enough to get good grades.”

Here’s the truth: your levels of ability in a given field are not fixed forever.

You can improve.

There’s a growing body of evidence that your brain can literally grow and change at a neurological level as you learn. The very wiring in your brain levels up as you practice and gain skill in an area.

So, train yourself to relish the feeling of finding things challenging, of feeling your ability stretched. Because that feeling is the feeling of your brain growing bigger and stronger and fitter! Exactly the same way that finding a workout challenging is the feeling of your body growing stronger and fitter.

As I tell my coaching students , “feel the burn when you learn”!

If you want to find out more about how 1:1 exam success coaching with me could save you time and get you bigger results this year, hit the button below:

10. Build on the bright spots

You might not have heard of Dr Timothy Wilson , but he’s one of the world’s leading authorities on behaviour change.

His book Redirect is one of my all-time top recommendations. In it, Tim talks about how the stories you tell yourself have a powerful impact on your behaviour, and how to go about changing those stories.

We’ve already met some examples of those “stories” when we talked about limiting beliefs just now. (I’m bad at math(s), I’m not smart enough, etc.)

I particularly like his “bright spots” technique.

This means looking for examples of places or circumstances where you’re not quite as bad as normal!

If you struggle in math(s), say, is there a particular topic you actually did OK with?

Was there a teacher you started to flourish with?

Was there a time when you showed a little more promise?

Starting by nurturing these bright spots as proof that better things are possible, that you are capable of more. Take courage and confidence from the very existence of these bright spots.

Then go a step further.

Ask yourself what it was about these examples that made them different and better. If there were particular things you did that time that helped, could you do more of that in future?

See if you can spread the light from the bright spots wider and wider through your work.

Your inner caveman loves a quick thrill: here’s how to use that to your advantage to improve your study habits

So, let’s take stock.

By now, we’ve got over your inner caveman’s laziness, we’ve convinced him or her that change isn’t so risky after all.

Now all we need to do is solve the problem of your caveman wanting its quick thrills.

My final strategies allow you to do just that.

11. Improve your study habits by promising your inner caveman a reward

Can you “manufacture” a quick thrill to reward your inner caveman for good behaviour?

Much as you might toss your pooch a doggy treat when it’s obeyed a command to “sit” in training, you give your inner caveman a tangible reward to say “good job” when you follow through on your intentions.

Food is an easy example. My high school Biology teacher used to polish off a whole packet of chocolate digestive biscuits on the one night of the year he blitz-marked all of the practice exam scripts.

(Don’t try this at home!)

For you, it might be rewarding yourself for a good day’s studying with an episode of your favourite show on Netflix.

12. Threaten your caveman with a “punishment”

The flip side of craving quick thrills is a strong aversion to suffering punishments. That’s just psychologists’ term for any outcome which is unpleasant in some way, such as losing money.

How can we use “punishments” to keep that inner caveman in line and improve study habits?

There are plenty of apps that will help: Beeminder is one good example. The app is totally free to use as long as you’re on track, and it’ll send you nice “well done” messages along the way. But if you go off the rails… you pay!

I’ve even known a PhD candidate set up a contract with a friend. For every month he fails to stick to his word count target, he’ll owe $200. Ouch.

You could even combine this strategy with your inner caveman’s fear of social embarrassment. Make the “punishment” a social embarrassment if you fail to hit your goals, for example, announcing to your friends on your social media account of choice if you miss your writing target one day. Hopefully, that will have a bit of a positive feedback loop, as your, hopefully, supportive friendship group encourages you to get back on track the next day.

A word of caution on rewards and punishments

Whether you’re promising a good outcome or threatening a bad one, beware making the incentive too strong.

If you do, there’s a risk that you start to erode any intrinsic interest you have in your new study habit. Your brain thinks that the only reason you’re studying is to get the reward or avoid the punishment, and so you actually become less interested over time in your studies.

So if you’re going to use punishments and rewards, try to use the lightest possible prize or threat that still gets you to take the action you want.

My advice would be to use punishments and rewards as a kick to get you started, but switch to something else to stay the course over the long term.

13.  Temptation bundling to improve your study habits

You could also try “ temptation bundling ”. This is where you bundle something you don’t especially want to do together with something you really, really want to do.

Don’t want to go to the gym? Addicted to that new show on Netflix? Perfect: from now on, the only place you’re allowed to watch that show is when you’re in the gym .

Resisting adopting a new study habit? Wild about that new shake shack that just opened? Perfect: from now on, the only time you’re allowed a milkshake is as you’re sitting down to work with your new study technique.

Combine the thing you’re resisting with the thing you really want to do.

You might need the gym idea if you have too many of those milkshakes!

But you get the idea 🙂

14. Making long-term goals into short-term actions

If you heard my recent podcast episode Eating The Frog with productivity legend Brian Tracy , you’ll have heard him talk about the buzz you get from completing a task.

As Brian explained, it’s easy to feel daunted by the idea of working on our biggest tasks – that giant project or assignment or dissertation. We know a day’s work on it isn’t going to make much progress on it, so we delay starting in earnest until the last minute. Then it all ends in panic, and having to finish it in a big hairy time-pressured ball of stress.

The strategy to counter that is to break the big task up into lots of little sub-tasks. You won’t get the whole dissertation written today, but you can tick off some of the papers you need to read. You can still get a sense of accomplishment from ticking off the “sub-tasks”.

Anything that gives you a feeling of progress is going to motivate you to keep working every day on the project.

And for projects where the daily tasks are very repetitive, consider tracking your actions on a wall-chart.

Try putting a simple tick on each day of the calendar when you fulfil the habit you set out to achieve each day: whether that’s going for a run, or spending 10 minutes reading ahead for your classes the next day.

It’s surprisingly satisfying to see that streak of days building up. Visual proof that you’ve now accomplished the action you intended to take for 3 days running, or 10 days running, or for 30 days running!

And you’d better do it again tomorrow – you don’t want to break that streak!

And speaking of “tomorrow”, that brings us nicely to our fifteenth and final strategy:

15. Connecting to your future self

Fascinating research suggests it’s possible to re-programme your brain to value your future self more than it does currently. (At least temporarily – and that might be all it takes to improve your study habits and get into a new way of working for good).

So make the future feel closer: connect to your “future self”.

To do this in practice:

• Hang out with your future self on AgingBooth: ( iOS / Android ) an app that transforms a picture of your face into what you’ll look like decades in the future. I’ve even known people to get their AgingBooth photo framed and hung on their wall, as a constant (if slightly weird?) reminder of your very distant future.
• Use FutureMe.org to send an email to your future self: write a letter to yourself to be delivered at a time of your choosing. “Dear Me, I hope you’re happy with the results I’m currently working so hard for you to enjoy…”. The act of writing the letter connects you with your future self, makes you think hard about what “future you” will want. Receiving the letter is a pretty wild moment too!

Both of these strategies will help bring your perceptions of the future a little closer, helping to motivate your inner caveman to make preparing for the future a priority in the present.

That helps reset the balance between your long-term motivations to work towards an important goal, and your inner caveman’s love of a quick thrill in the present.

As a quick aside, I see you’re listening to this from the future – what’s it like?!

Did you manage to figure out how to improve your study habits…?

An invitation: take the shortcut to exam success, with my help

Before I leave you, I want to end today with an invitation.

If you’re studying for exams at school, university, college, or in the workplace to further your career, I hope you’ve found this blog helpful. I put a lot of energy into creating it for you, and I know there are literally hundreds of thousands of students who use my free resources to get an advantage in their exams.

But if you’re looking for the ultimate shortcut to study smarter, upgrade your study habits, and get the exam outcomes you’re for with less work and less stress, I would like to warmly invite you to my exam success coaching programme.

You can work with me for as little as a single one-off session to rapidly fine-tune an aspect of your study habits or exam technique, or invest in maximising success while minimising your stress levels with a long-term coaching programme throughout exam season or even through your whole course.

Just hit the blue button below to find out more, and book a complimentary chat today:

I’m standing by and ready to help you study smarter, reduce stress, and ace your exams this year.

The Science Of Studying Smart

Download my free exam success cheat sheet: all my #1 must-know strategies to supercharge your learning today.

Your privacy protected. No spam. Unsubscribe any time.

• Latest Posts

• Managing Stress for Students – with Heather Lillico [PODCAST]
• Avoiding Burnout for Students – with Hannah Tackett [PODCAST]
• Test Taking Anxiety – with Dr Wallace & Dr Artyom [PODCAST]

Thank you for such an amazing article. Changing study habits is the best way to improve your academic performance.

Hello. This article was really fascinating, especially because I was browsing for thoughts on this topic last Monday.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Read My Test-Taking Technique Book For More Marks In Exams

Top Picks: Recommended Reading From The Blog

How To Study Effectively : Ultimate Guide [READER FAVOURITE]

Why Study [READER FAVOURITE]

Exam Memorization Secrets

Inspirational Exam Quotes

Finding The Perfect Study Routine

Pomodoro Method : 9-Step Guide

Best Books About Studying

Listen To The Podcast

Have a language expert improve your writing

Run a free plagiarism check in 10 minutes, generate accurate citations for free.

• Knowledge Base
• How to write an essay introduction | 4 steps & examples

How to Write an Essay Introduction | 4 Steps & Examples

Published on February 4, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on July 23, 2023.

A good introduction paragraph is an essential part of any academic essay . It sets up your argument and tells the reader what to expect.

The main goals of an introduction are to:

• Catch your reader’s attention.
• Give background on your topic.
• Present your thesis statement —the central point of your essay.

This introduction example is taken from our interactive essay example on the history of Braille.

The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability. The writing system of raised dots used by visually impaired people was developed by Louis Braille in nineteenth-century France. In a society that did not value disabled people in general, blindness was particularly stigmatized, and lack of access to reading and writing was a significant barrier to social participation. The idea of tactile reading was not entirely new, but existing methods based on sighted systems were difficult to learn and use. As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness. This essay begins by discussing the situation of blind people in nineteenth-century Europe. It then describes the invention of Braille and the gradual process of its acceptance within blind education. Subsequently, it explores the wide-ranging effects of this invention on blind people’s social and cultural lives.

Instantly correct all language mistakes in your text

Upload your document to correct all your mistakes in minutes

Table of contents

Step 1: hook your reader, step 2: give background information, step 3: present your thesis statement, step 4: map your essay’s structure, step 5: check and revise, more examples of essay introductions, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about the essay introduction.

Your first sentence sets the tone for the whole essay, so spend some time on writing an effective hook.

Avoid long, dense sentences—start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.

The hook should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of the topic you’re writing about and why it’s interesting. Avoid overly broad claims or plain statements of fact.

Examples: Writing a good hook

Take a look at these examples of weak hooks and learn how to improve them.

• Braille was an extremely important invention.
• The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability.

The first sentence is a dry fact; the second sentence is more interesting, making a bold claim about exactly  why the topic is important.

• The internet is defined as “a global computer network providing a variety of information and communication facilities.”
• The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education.

Avoid using a dictionary definition as your hook, especially if it’s an obvious term that everyone knows. The improved example here is still broad, but it gives us a much clearer sense of what the essay will be about.

• Mary Shelley’s  Frankenstein is a famous book from the nineteenth century.
• Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement.

Instead of just stating a fact that the reader already knows, the improved hook here tells us about the mainstream interpretation of the book, implying that this essay will offer a different interpretation.

Here's why students love Scribbr's proofreading services

Discover proofreading & editing

Next, give your reader the context they need to understand your topic and argument. Depending on the subject of your essay, this might include:

• Historical, geographical, or social context
• An outline of the debate you’re addressing
• A summary of relevant theories or research about the topic
• Definitions of key terms

The information here should be broad but clearly focused and relevant to your argument. Don’t give too much detail—you can mention points that you will return to later, but save your evidence and interpretation for the main body of the essay.

How much space you need for background depends on your topic and the scope of your essay. In our Braille example, we take a few sentences to introduce the topic and sketch the social context that the essay will address:

Now it’s time to narrow your focus and show exactly what you want to say about the topic. This is your thesis statement —a sentence or two that sums up your overall argument.

This is the most important part of your introduction. A  good thesis isn’t just a statement of fact, but a claim that requires evidence and explanation.

The goal is to clearly convey your own position in a debate or your central point about a topic.

Particularly in longer essays, it’s helpful to end the introduction by signposting what will be covered in each part. Keep it concise and give your reader a clear sense of the direction your argument will take.

As you research and write, your argument might change focus or direction as you learn more.

For this reason, it’s often a good idea to wait until later in the writing process before you write the introduction paragraph—it can even be the very last thing you write.

When you’ve finished writing the essay body and conclusion , you should return to the introduction and check that it matches the content of the essay.

It’s especially important to make sure your thesis statement accurately represents what you do in the essay. If your argument has gone in a different direction than planned, tweak your thesis statement to match what you actually say.

To polish your writing, you can use something like a paraphrasing tool .

You can use the checklist below to make sure your introduction does everything it’s supposed to.

Checklist: Essay introduction

My first sentence is engaging and relevant.

I have introduced the topic with necessary background information.

I have defined any important terms.

My thesis statement clearly presents my main point or argument.

Everything in the introduction is relevant to the main body of the essay.

You have a strong introduction - now make sure the rest of your essay is just as good.

• Argumentative
• Literary analysis

This introduction to an argumentative essay sets up the debate about the internet and education, and then clearly states the position the essay will argue for.

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts is on the rise, and its role in learning is hotly debated. For many teachers who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its critical benefits for students and educators—as a uniquely comprehensive and accessible information source; a means of exposure to and engagement with different perspectives; and a highly flexible learning environment.

This introduction to a short expository essay leads into the topic (the invention of the printing press) and states the main point the essay will explain (the effect of this invention on European society).

In many ways, the invention of the printing press marked the end of the Middle Ages. The medieval period in Europe is often remembered as a time of intellectual and political stagnation. Prior to the Renaissance, the average person had very limited access to books and was unlikely to be literate. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century allowed for much less restricted circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.

This introduction to a literary analysis essay , about Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein , starts by describing a simplistic popular view of the story, and then states how the author will give a more complex analysis of the text’s literary devices.

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale. Arguably the first science fiction novel, its plot can be read as a warning about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, and in popular culture representations of the character as a “mad scientist”, Victor Frankenstein represents the callous, arrogant ambition of modern science. However, far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to gradually transform our impression of Frankenstein, portraying him in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creature’s narrative Frankenstein begins to resemble—even in his own telling—the thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

• Ad hominem fallacy
• Post hoc fallacy
• Appeal to authority fallacy
• False cause fallacy
• Sunk cost fallacy

College essays

• Choosing Essay Topic
• Write a College Essay
• Write a Diversity Essay
• College Essay Format & Structure
• Comparing and Contrasting in an Essay

 (AI) Tools

• Grammar Checker
• Paraphrasing Tool
• Text Summarizer
• AI Detector
• Plagiarism Checker
• Citation Generator

Your essay introduction should include three main things, in this order:

• An opening hook to catch the reader’s attention.
• Relevant background information that the reader needs to know.
• A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.

The length of each part depends on the length and complexity of your essay .

The “hook” is the first sentence of your essay introduction . It should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of why it’s interesting.

To write a good hook, avoid overly broad statements or long, dense sentences. Try to start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

• It gives your writing direction and focus.
• It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement , a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas.

The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ideas.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

McCombes, S. (2023, July 23). How to Write an Essay Introduction | 4 Steps & Examples. Scribbr. Retrieved August 2, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/academic-essay/introduction/

Is this article helpful?

Shona McCombes

Other students also liked, how to write a thesis statement | 4 steps & examples, academic paragraph structure | step-by-step guide & examples, how to conclude an essay | interactive example, what is your plagiarism score.

Essay Service Examples Education Study

Essay about Study Habits

• Proper editing and formatting
• Free revision, title page, and bibliography
• Flexible prices and money-back guarantee

Our writers will provide you with an essay sample written from scratch: any topic, any deadline, any instructions.

Cite this paper

Related essay topics.

Get your paper done in as fast as 3 hours, 24/7.

Related articles

Most popular essays

Social work advocacy aims to influence policies, practices and laws that affect all people in a...

• Blood Pressure
• Hypertension

Hypertension is one of leading illnesses in America: one out of every three Americans has this...

• Mental Illness

Is the world ready for you if you have a disability? Dyslexia is one of the learning challenges...

• Metamorphosis

Have you ever seen a human transform into a monstrous verminous bug in real life and act like one?...

• White Collar Crime

White Collar crime generally encompasses a variety of non violent crimes that are usually...

Love, respect, and forgiveness are the fundamental values that every family should have. When a...

• Lung Cancer

Natural resources are simply the naturally occurring of resources where. People use these natural...

• Growth Mindset

Developing a growth mindset can help students set high expectations for themselves, focus on...

White collar crimes are generally committed by businesses and government professionals. There are...

Join our 150k of happy users

• Get original paper written according to your instructions
• Save time for what matters most

Fair Use Policy

EduBirdie considers academic integrity to be the essential part of the learning process and does not support any violation of the academic standards. Should you have any questions regarding our Fair Use Policy or become aware of any violations, please do not hesitate to contact us via [email protected].

We are here 24/7 to write your paper in as fast as 3 hours.

Provide your email, and we'll send you this sample!

By providing your email, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Say goodbye to copy-pasting!

Get custom-crafted papers for you.

Enter your email, and we'll promptly send you the full essay. No need to copy piece by piece. It's in your inbox!

Essay on My Habits

Students are often asked to write an essay on My Habits in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on My Habits

Introduction.

Habits are routine behaviors that we perform regularly. They can be good, like brushing our teeth, or bad, like biting our nails. I have several habits that shape my daily life.

Good Habits

Everyone has some bad habits, and so do I. Sometimes, I procrastinate on my homework, which isn’t good for my studies. I am trying to overcome this habit.

Habits play a crucial role in our lives. They shape our health, productivity, and happiness. It’s important to cultivate good habits and get rid of the bad ones.

250 Words Essay on My Habits

Academic habits.

My academic habits are a blend of discipline, curiosity, and resilience. I have a strict study schedule, dedicating specific hours each day to each subject. This routine has helped me maintain a consistent academic performance. However, it’s not just about rote learning; I also cultivate the habit of critical thinking. I constantly question, analyze, and synthesize information, a habit that has deepened my understanding of the subjects.

Physical Habits

Physical habits play a crucial role in my well-being. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are non-negotiable aspects of my daily routine. These habits not only keep me physically fit but also boost my mental agility, enhancing my overall academic performance.

Social Habits

My social habits are about maintaining a balance between solitude and companionship. While I value my alone time for introspection and self-growth, I also understand the importance of social interactions. Engaging in meaningful conversations, participating in group activities, and volunteering are habits that have enriched my college experience.

In conclusion, my habits are a reflection of my commitment to personal growth and academic excellence. They are the outcome of conscious choices, driven by the desire to make the most of my college years. As I continue to evolve, I am certain that my habits will, too, adapt to serve my changing needs and aspirations.

500 Words Essay on My Habits

Introduction to my habits.

Habits, the regular tendencies or practices that one engages in, are often seen as a reflection of one’s character. They serve as a mirror, reflecting our personality, values, and lifestyle. As a college student, I have cultivated a set of habits that I believe contribute significantly to my personal and academic growth.

Embracing the Morning

Continuous learning.

The habit of continuous learning is another cornerstone of my lifestyle. I dedicate a portion of my day to reading, be it academic literature, novels, or news articles. This habit not only broadens my knowledge but also helps me to develop critical thinking skills, fostering a deeper understanding of the world around me and my place within it.

Self-Care and Wellness

In the hustle and bustle of college life, self-care is a habit that is often overlooked but is of paramount importance. I make it a point to engage in activities that nourish my body, mind, and spirit. This includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep. Additionally, I engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation and yoga, which help to maintain my mental well-being.

Time Management

Reflection and gratitude.

In conclusion, my habits serve as the framework for my daily life. They are the building blocks that shape my character, influence my actions, and guide my journey towards personal and academic growth. While these habits have been beneficial, I am aware of the need for flexibility and adaptation, as change is a constant part of life. As I continue to grow and evolve, I am open to cultivating new habits that contribute positively to my life’s journey.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Information

• Author Services

Initiatives

You are accessing a machine-readable page. In order to be human-readable, please install an RSS reader.

All articles published by MDPI are made immediately available worldwide under an open access license. No special permission is required to reuse all or part of the article published by MDPI, including figures and tables. For articles published under an open access Creative Common CC BY license, any part of the article may be reused without permission provided that the original article is clearly cited. For more information, please refer to https://www.mdpi.com/openaccess .

Feature papers represent the most advanced research with significant potential for high impact in the field. A Feature Paper should be a substantial original Article that involves several techniques or approaches, provides an outlook for future research directions and describes possible research applications.

Feature papers are submitted upon individual invitation or recommendation by the scientific editors and must receive positive feedback from the reviewers.

Editor’s Choice articles are based on recommendations by the scientific editors of MDPI journals from around the world. Editors select a small number of articles recently published in the journal that they believe will be particularly interesting to readers, or important in the respective research area. The aim is to provide a snapshot of some of the most exciting work published in the various research areas of the journal.

Original Submission Date Received: .

• Active Journals
• Find a Journal
• Proceedings Series
• For Authors
• For Reviewers
• For Editors
• For Librarians
• For Publishers
• For Societies
• For Conference Organizers
• Open Access Policy
• Institutional Open Access Program
• Special Issues Guidelines
• Editorial Process
• Research and Publication Ethics
• Article Processing Charges
• Testimonials
• Preprints.org
• SciProfiles
• Encyclopedia

Article Menu

• Subscribe SciFeed
• Recommended Articles
• Google Scholar
• on Google Scholar
• Table of Contents

Find support for a specific problem in the support section of our website.

Please let us know what you think of our products and services.

Visit our dedicated information section to learn more about MDPI.

JSmol Viewer

Longitudinal associations between healthy eating habits, resilience, insomnia, and internet addiction in chinese college students: a cross-lagged panel analysis.

1. Introduction

2. materials and methods, 2.1. participants and procedures, 2.2. measurements, 2.2.1. internet addiction, 2.2.2. healthy eating habits, 2.2.3. resilience, 2.2.4. insomnia, 2.3. statistical analysis, 3.1. common method bias test, 3.2. characteristics of the participants, 3.3. preliminary analyses, 3.4. cross-lagged analysis, 4. discussion, strengths and limitations, 5. conclusions, author contributions, institutional review board statement, informed consent statement, data availability statement, acknowledgments, conflicts of interest.

• Cui, G.; Yin, Y.; Li, S.; Chen, L.; Liu, X.; Tang, K.; Li, Y. Longitudinal relationships among problematic mobile phone use, bedtime procrastination, sleep quality and depressive symptoms in Chinese college students: A cross-lagged panel analysis. BMC Psychiatry 2021 , 21 , 449. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Wang, J.; Hao, Q.H.; Peng, W.; Tu, Y.; Zhang, L.; Zhu, T.M. Relationship between smartphone addiction and eating disorders and lifestyle among Chinese college students. Front. Public Health 2023 , 11 , 1111477. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• China Internet Network Information Center (CNNIC). The 50th Statistical Report on China’s Internet Development. 2022. Available online: https://www.cnnic.ac.cn/n4/2022/0914/c88-10226.html (accessed on 8 October 2023).
• Spada, M.M. An overview of problematic internet use. Addict. Behav. 2014 , 39 , 3–6. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Cheng, M.; Wang, S.; Wang, Y.; Zhang, R.; Qin, L. Physical activity reduces internet addiction among “post-00” college students: The mediating role of coping styles. Front. Psychol. 2022 , 13 , 1052510. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Gong, Z.; Wang, L.; Wang, H. Perceived Stress and Internet Addiction Among Chinese College Students: Mediating Effect of Procrastination and Moderating Effect of Flow. Front. Psychol. 2021 , 12 , 632461. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Shao, Y.J.; Zheng, T.; Wang, Y.Q.; Liu, L.; Chen, Y.; Yao, Y.S. Internet addiction detection rate among college students in the People’s Republic of China: A meta-analysis. Child Adolesc. Psychiatry Ment. Health 2018 , 12 , 25. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Tateno, M.; Teo, A.R.; Shirasaka, T.; Tayama, M.; Watabe, M.; Kato, T.A. Internet addiction and self-evaluated attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder traits among Japanese college students. Psychiatry Clin. Neurosci. 2016 , 70 , 567–572. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Craparo, G.; Messina, R.; Severino, S.; Fasciano, S.; Cannella, V.; Gori, A.; Cacioppo, M.; Baiocco, R. The relationships between self-efficacy, internet addiction and shame. Indian J. Psychol. Med. 2014 , 36 , 304–307. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Liang, S.; Ren, Z.; Yang, G. Cross-sectional and prospective association between internet addiction and risk of fatigue among Chinese college students. Medicine 2022 , 101 , e30034. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Jiang, M.; Zhao, Y.; Wang, J.; Hua, L.; Chen, Y.; Yao, Y.; Jin, Y. Serial Multiple Mediation of the Correlation between Internet Addiction and Depression by Social Support and Sleep Quality of College Students during the COVID-19 Epidemic. Psychiatry Investig. 2022 , 19 , 9–15. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Kumar, G.; Dash, P.; Jnaneswar, A.; Suresan, V.; Jha, K.; Ghosal, S. Impact of internet addiction during COVID-19 on anxiety and sleep quality among college students of Bhubaneswar city. J. Educ. Health Promot. 2022 , 11 , 156. [ Google Scholar ] [ PubMed ]
• Shen, Y.; Meng, F.; Xu, H.; Li, X.; Zhang, Y.; Huang, C.; Luo, X.; Zhang, X.Y. Internet addiction among college students in a Chinese population: Prevalence, correlates, and its relationship with suicide attempts. Depress. Anxiety 2020 , 37 , 812–821. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Grajek, M.; Krupa-Kotara, K.; Białek-Dratwa, A.; Sobczyk, K.; Grot, M.; Kowalski, O.; Staśkiewicz, W. Nutrition and mental health: A review of current knowledge about the impact of diet on mental health. Front. Nutr. 2022 , 9 , 943998. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Xiao, L.J.; Tao, R. Nutrition Support Therapy. Adv. Exp. Med. Biol. 2017 , 1010 , 281–293. [ Google Scholar ] [ PubMed ]
• Kim, Y.; Park, J.Y.; Kim, S.B.; Jung, I.K.; Lim, Y.S.; Kim, J.H. The effects of Internet addiction on the lifestyle and dietary behavior of Korean adolescents. Nutr. Res. Pract. 2010 , 4 , 51–57. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Tayhan Kartal, F.; Yabancı Ayhan, N. Relationship between eating disorders and internet and smartphone addiction in college students. Eat. Weight Disord. 2021 , 26 , 1853–1862. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Connor, K.M.; Davidson, J.R. Development of a new resilience scale: The Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC). Depress. Anxiety 2003 , 18 , 76–82. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Li, S.; Cui, G.; Yin, Y.; Tang, K.; Chen, L.; Liu, X. Prospective Association Between Problematic Mobile Phone Use and Eating Disorder Symptoms and the Mediating Effect of Resilience in Chinese College Students: A 1-Year Longitudinal Study. Front. Public Health 2022 , 10 , 857246. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Windle, G. What is resilience? A review and concept analysis. Rev. Clin. Gerontol. 2011 , 21 , 152–169. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Sato, K.; Suzuki, F.; Tsujiguchi, H.; Hara, A.; Kannon, T.; Miyagi, S.; Suzuki, K.; Nakamura, M.; Takazawa, C.; Shibata, A.; et al. Relationship between Vitamin Intake and Resilience Based on Sex in Middle-Aged and Older Japanese Adults: Results of the Shika Study. Nutrients 2022 , 14 , 5042. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Ciydem, E.; Bilgin, H. The moderating role of resilience in the relationship between peer pressure and risky behaviors among nursing students. Perspect. Psychiatr. Care 2022 , 58 , 355–363. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Hidalgo-Fuentes, S.; Martí-Vilar, M.; Ruiz-Ordoñez, Y. Problematic Internet Use and Resilience: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nurs. Rep. 2023 , 13 , 337–350. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Tsai, P.S.; Wang, S.Y.; Wang, M.Y.; Su, C.T.; Yang, T.T.; Huang, C.J.; Fang, S.C. Psychometric evaluation of the Chinese version of the Pittsburgh Sleep. Quality Index. (CPSQI) in primary insomnia and control subjects. Qual. Life Res. 2005 , 14 , 1943–1952. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Palmese, L.B.; DeGeorge, P.C.; Ratliff, J.C.; Srihari, V.H.; Wexler, B.E.; Krystal, A.D.; Tek, C. Insomnia is frequent in schizophrenia and associated with night eating and obesity. Schizophr. Res. 2011 , 133 , 238–243. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Katagiri, R.; Asakura, K.; Kobayashi, S.; Suga, H.; Sasaki, S. Low intake of vegetables, high intake of confectionary, and unhealthy eating habits are associated with poor sleep quality among middle-aged female Japanese workers. J. Occup. Health 2014 , 56 , 359–368. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Chen, Y.L.; Gau, S.S. Sleep problems and internet addiction among children and adolescents: A longitudinal study. J. Sleep Res. 2016 , 25 , 458–465. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Wrzosek, M.; Wojnar, M.; Sawicka, A.; Tałałaj, M.; Nowicka, G. Insomnia and depressive symptoms in relation to unhealthy eating behaviors in bariatric surgery candidates. BMC Psychiatry 2018 , 18 , 153. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Brand, M.; Young, K.S.; Laier, C.; Wölfling, K.; Potenza, M.N. Integrating psychological and neurobiological considerations regarding the development and maintenance of specific Internet-use disorders: An. Interaction of Person-Affect-Cognition-Execution (I-PACE) model. Neurosci. Biobehav. Rev. 2016 , 71 , 252–266. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Trinko, R.; Sears, R.M.; Guarnieri, D.J.; DiLeone, R.J. Neural mechanisms underlying obesity and drug addiction. Physiol. Behav. 2007 , 91 , 499–505. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Luo, X.; Yu, T.; Yang, Z.; Wang, D. Psychotic-Like Experiences and Suicidal Ideation among Adolescents: The Chain Mediating Role of Insomnia Symptoms and Resilience. Psychol. Res. Behav. Manag. 2023 , 16 , 3519–3530. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Doi, S.; Fujiwara, T.; Ochi, M.; Isumi, A.; Kato, T. Association of sleep habits with behavior problems and resilience of 6- to 7-year-old children: Results from the A-CHILD study. Sleep Med. 2018 , 45 , 62–68. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Mignot, E.; Taheri, S.; Nishino, S. Sleeping with the hypothalamus: Emerging therapeutic targets for sleep disorders. Nat. Neurosci. 2002 , 5 (Suppl. S11), 1071–1075. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Borrell-Carrió, F.; Suchman, A.L.; Epstein, R.M. The biopsychosocial model 25 years later: Principles, practice, and scientific inquiry. Ann. Fam. Med. 2004 , 2 , 576–582. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Yao, L.; Liang, K.; Huang, L.; Chi, X. Relationship between fruit and vegetable consumption and internet addiction with insomnia and depression as multiple mediators during the COVID-19 pandemic: A three-wave longitudinal study in Chinese college students. BMC Psychiatry 2023 , 23 , 939. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Gorsuch, R.L. Factor Analysis , 2nd ed.; Lawrence Erlbaum: Hillsdale, NJ, USA, 1983. [ Google Scholar ]
• Shek, D.T.; Tang, V.M.; Lo, C.Y. Internet addiction in Chinese adolescents in Hong Kong: Assessment, profiles, and psychosocial correlates. Sci. World J. 2008 , 8 , 776–787. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Cao, W. Development and psychometric tests of a Chinese version of the HPLP-II scales. Chin. J. Dis. Control Prev. 2016 , 20 , 286. [ Google Scholar ]
• Chi, X.; Liang, K.; Chen, S.T.; Huang, Q.; Huang, L.; Yu, Q.; Jiao, C.; Guo, T.; Stubbs, B.; Hossain, M.M.; et al. Mental health problems among Chinese adolescents during the COVID-19: The importance of nutrition and physical activity. Int. J. Clin. Health Psychol. 2021 , 21 , 100218. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Wang, L.; Shi, Z.; Zhang, Y.; Zhang, Z. Psychometric properties of the 10-item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale in Chinese earthquake victims. Psychiatry Clin. Neurosci. 2010 , 64 , 499–504. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Campbell-Sills, L.; Stein, M.B. Psychometric analysis and refinement of the Connor-davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC): Validation of a 10-item measure of resilience. J. Trauma. Stress 2007 , 20 , 1019–1028. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Liu, X.; Yang, Y.; Liu, Z.-Z.; Luo, Y.; Fan, F.; Jia, C.-X. Psychometric properties of Youth Self-Rating Insomnia Scale (YSIS) in Chinese adolescents. Sleep Biol. Rhythm. 2019 , 17 , 339–348. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Tehseen, S.; Ramayah, T.; Sajilan, S. Testing and Controlling for Common Method Variance: A Review of Available Methods. J. Manag. Sci. 2017 , 4 , 142–168. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Toyoda, A. Nutritional interventions for promoting stress resilience: Recent progress using psychosocial stress models of rodents. Anim. Sci. J. 2020 , 91 , e13478. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Ferland, G. Vitamin K, an emerging nutrient in brain function. Biofactors 2012 , 38 , 151–157. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Kunugi, H. Depression and lifestyle: Focusing on nutrition, exercise, and their possible relevance to molecular mechanisms. Psychiatry Clin. Neurosci. 2023 , 77 , 420–433. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Zahedi, H.; Djalalinia, S.; Sadeghi, O.; Zare Garizi, F.; Asayesh, H.; Payab, M.; Zarei, M.; Qorbani, M. Breakfast consumption and mental health: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. Nutr. Neurosci. 2022 , 25 , 1250–1264. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Cheng, P.; Kalmbach, D.A.; Hsieh, H.F.; Castelan, A.C.; Sagong, C.; Drake, C.L. Improved resilience following digital cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia protects against insomnia and depression one year later. Psychol. Med. 2022 , 53 , 3826–3836. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Jackson, M.L.; Gunzelmann, G.; Whitney, P.; Hinson, J.M.; Belenky, G.; Rabat, A.; Van Dongen, H.P. Deconstructing and reconstructing cognitive performance in sleep deprivation. Sleep Med. Rev. 2013 , 17 , 215–225. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Zohar, D.; Tzischinsky, O.; Epstein, R.; Lavie, P. The effects of sleep loss on medical residents’ emotional reactions to work events: A cognitive-energy model. Sleep 2005 , 28 , 47–54. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Yen, J.Y.; Lin, H.C.; Chou, W.P.; Liu, T.L.; Ko, C.H. Associations Among Resilience, Stress, Depression, and Internet Gaming Disorder in Young Adults. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019 , 16 , 3181. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Shang, R.; Pang, H.; Jiang, J.; Ji, Y.; Liu, Q.; Zhang, M.; Yang, R.; Li, S.; Li, Y.; Liu, Q. Internet addiction and depressive and anxious symptoms among Chinese rural left-behind adolescents: Mediating roles of resilience and friendship quality. Child Care Health Dev. 2023 , 50 , e13160. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Fumero, A.; Marrero, R.J.; Voltes, D.; Peñate, W. Personal and social factors involved in internet addiction among adolescents: A meta-analysis. Comput. Hum. Behav. 2018 , 86 , 387–400. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Gieniusz-Wojczyk, L.; Dąbek, J.; Kulik, H. Risky Behaviour among Nurses in Poland: An Analysis of Nurses’ Physical Condition, Mental Health, and Resilience. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021 , 18 , 1807. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Palagini, L.; Moretto, U.; Novi, M.; Masci, I.; Caruso, D.; Drake, C.L.; Riemann, D. Lack of Resilience Is Related to Stress-Related Sleep Reactivity, Hyperarousal, and Emotion Dysregulation in Insomnia Disorder. J. Clin. Sleep Med. 2018 , 14 , 759–766. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Zhou, P.; Zhang, C.; Liu, J.; Wang, Z. The Relationship Between Resilience and Internet Addiction: A Multiple Mediation Model Through Peer Relationship and Depression. Cyberpsychol. Behav. Soc. Netw. 2017 , 20 , 634–639. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Karbasi, S.; Asadi, Z.; Mohaghegh, Z.; Saeedi, F.; Ferns, G.A.; Bahrami, A. The relationship between dietary patterns and insomnia in young women. Neuropsychopharmacol. Rep. 2023 , 43 , 228–238. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Da Silva, E.C.; Carneiro, J.R.; De Almeida Fonseca Viola, P.C.; Confortin, S.C.; Da Silva, A.A.M. Association of Food Intake with Sleep Durations in Adolescents from a Capital City in Northeastern Brazil. Nutrients 2022 , 14 , 5180. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Peuhkuri, K.; Sihvola, N.; Korpela, R. Diet promotes sleep duration and quality. Nutr. Res. 2012 , 32 , 309–319. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Bhurosy, T.; Thiagarajah, K. Are Eating Habits Associated with Adequate Sleep among High School Students? J. Sch. Health 2020 , 90 , 81–87. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Abbasi, B.; Kimiagar, M.; Sadeghniiat, K.; Shirazi, M.M.; Hedayati, M.; Rashidkhani, B. The effect of magnesium supplementation on primary insomnia in elderly: A double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. J. Res. Med. Sci. 2012 , 17 , 1161–1169. [ Google Scholar ]
• Dawson, D.; Encel, N. Melatonin and sleep in humans. J. Pineal Res. 1993 , 15 , 1–12. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Corrêa Rangel, T.; Falcão Raposo, M.C.; Sampaio Rocha-Filho, P.A. Internet addiction, headache, and insomnia in university students: A cross-sectional study. Neurol. Sci. 2022 , 43 , 1035–1041. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Riemann, D.; Krone, L.B.; Wulff, K.; Nissen, C. Sleep, insomnia, and depression. Neuropsychopharmacology 2020 , 45 , 74–89. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Brailovskaia, J.; Rohmann, E.; Bierhoff, H.W.; Margraf, J.; Köllner, V. Relationships between addictive Facebook use, depressiveness, insomnia, and positive mental health in an inpatient sample: A German longitudinal study. J. Behav. Addict. 2019 , 8 , 703–713. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Shen, Y.; Jin, X.; Zhang, Y.; Huang, C.; Lu, J.; Luo, X.; Zhang, X.Y. Insomnia in Chinese College Students With Internet Addiction: Prevalence and Associated Clinical Correlates. Front. Psychiatry 2020 , 11 , 596683. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Kim, J.; Hong, H.; Lee, J.; Hyun, M.H. Effects of time perspective and self-control on procrastination and Internet addiction. J. Behav. Addict. 2017 , 6 , 229–236. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Williams, A.B.; Dzierzewski, J.M.; Griffin, S.C.; Lind, M.J.; Dick, D.; Rybarczyk, B.D. Insomnia Disorder and Behaviorally Induced Insufficient Sleep Syndrome: Prevalence and Relationship to Depression in College Students. Behav. Sleep Med. 2020 , 18 , 275–286. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Yang, S.Y.; Fu, S.H.; Chen, K.L.; Hsieh, P.L.; Lin, P.H. Relationships between depression, health-related behaviors, and internet addiction in female junior college students. PLoS ONE 2019 , 14 , e0220784. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Wang, H.; Luo, W.; Huang, W.; Xiang, H.; Chen, S.; Lin, W.; Chen, C.; Zhang, Y.; Huang, S.; Wang, Y.; et al. How sleep duration mediated childhood trauma and Internet addiction of the vocational college population in urban areas of south China. Front. Psychiatry 2022 , 13 , 1088172. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Zheng, H.; Wang, M.; Zheng, Y.; Dong, G.H. How sleep disturbances affect internet gaming disorder: The mediating effect of hippocampal functional connectivity. J. Affect. Disord. 2022 , 300 , 84–90. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Wortmann, H.R.; Gisch, U.A.; Bergmann, M.M.; Warschburger, P. Exploring the Longitudinal Stability of Food Neophilia and Dietary Quality and Their Prospective Relationship in Older Adults: A Cross-Lagged Panel Analysis. Nutrients 2023 , 15 , 1248. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Thorpe, M.G.; Milte, C.M.; Crawford, D.; McNaughton, S.A. Education and lifestyle predict change in dietary patterns and diet quality of adults 55 years and over. Nutr. J. 2019 , 18 , 67. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Carbonneau, E.; Lamarche, B.; Provencher, V.; Desroches, S.; Robitaille, J.; Vohl, M.C.; Bégin, C.; Bélanger, M.; Couillard, C.; Pelletier, L.; et al. Associations Between Nutrition Knowledge and Overall Diet Quality: The Moderating Role of Sociodemographic Characteristics-Results From the PREDISE Study. Am. J. Health Promot. 2021 , 35 , 38–47. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Zhou, S.; Chen, J.; Lin, H.; Ye, Y.; Xiao, Y.; Ouyang, N.; Pan, S.; Feng, S.; Xie, M.; Li, B. Associations Among Workplace Bullying, Resilience, Insomnia Severity, and Subjective Wellbeing in Chinese Resident Doctors. Front. Psychiatry 2022 , 13 , 840945. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Falch-Madsen, J.; Wichstrøm, L.; Pallesen, S.; Ranum, B.M.; Steinsbekk, S. Child and family predictors of insomnia from early childhood to adolescence. Sleep Med. 2021 , 87 , 220–226. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Falch-Madsen, J.; Wichstrøm, L.; Pallesen, S.; Steinsbekk, S. Prevalence and stability of insomnia from preschool to early adolescence: A prospective cohort study in Norway. BMJ Paediatr. Open 2020 , 4 , e000660. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Spielman, A.J.; Caruso, L.S.; Glovinsky, P.B. A behavioral perspective on insomnia treatment. Psychiatr. Clin. N. Am. 1987 , 10 , 541–553. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Shek, D.T.; Yu, L. Internet addiction phenomenon in early adolescents in Hong Kong. Sci. World J. 2012 , 2012 , 104304. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ] [ PubMed ]
• Song, H. Longitudinal Investigations of Autoregressive Cross-Lagged Path Models Among Internet Use, Executive Function Problems, and Maternal Control in Young Korean Children. Front. Psychiatry 2022 , 13 , 846995. [ Google Scholar ] [ CrossRef ]
• Widaman, K.F. III. Missing Data: What to do with or without Them. Monogr. Soc. Res. Child Dev. 2006 , 71 , 42–64. [ Google Scholar ]

Click here to enlarge figure

Share and Cite

Yao, L.; Liang, K.; Huang, L.; Xiao, J.; Zhou, K.; Chen, S.; Chi, X. Longitudinal Associations between Healthy Eating Habits, Resilience, Insomnia, and Internet Addiction in Chinese College Students: A Cross-Lagged Panel Analysis. Nutrients 2024 , 16 , 2470. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16152470

Yao L, Liang K, Huang L, Xiao J, Zhou K, Chen S, Chi X. Longitudinal Associations between Healthy Eating Habits, Resilience, Insomnia, and Internet Addiction in Chinese College Students: A Cross-Lagged Panel Analysis. Nutrients . 2024; 16(15):2470. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16152470

Yao, Liqing, Kaixin Liang, Liuyue Huang, Jialin Xiao, Kaiji Zhou, Sitong Chen, and Xinli Chi. 2024. "Longitudinal Associations between Healthy Eating Habits, Resilience, Insomnia, and Internet Addiction in Chinese College Students: A Cross-Lagged Panel Analysis" Nutrients 16, no. 15: 2470. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16152470

Article Metrics

Article access statistics, further information, mdpi initiatives, follow mdpi.

Subscribe to receive issue release notifications and newsletters from MDPI journals

Home — Essay Samples — Psychology — Personal Development Planning — Importance Of Spending Habits

Importance of Spending Habits

• Categories: Personal Development Planning

About this sample

Words: 511 |

Published: Aug 1, 2024

Words: 511 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Cite this Essay

Let us write you an essay from scratch

• 450+ experts on 30 subjects ready to help
• Custom essay delivered in as few as 3 hours

Get high-quality help

Prof Ernest (PhD)

Verified writer

• Expert in: Psychology

+ 120 experts online

By clicking “Check Writers’ Offers”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy . We’ll occasionally send you promo and account related email

No need to pay just yet!

Related Essays

3 pages / 1263 words

5 pages / 2444 words

2 pages / 996 words

2 pages / 842 words

Remember! This is just a sample.

You can get your custom paper by one of our expert writers.

121 writers online

Still can’t find what you need?

Browse our vast selection of original essay samples, each expertly formatted and styled

Related Essays on Personal Development Planning

“The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He/She is the one that gets the people to do the greatest things.” – Ronald Reagan. A leader must have in their toolbox a focus on maintaining [...]

Help.open.ac.uk. (2019). Friends and family: When study gets difficult - Help Centre - Open University. Available at: Jou

The transition from high school to college is a significant milestone that shapes an individual's academic and personal life. Going to college is often portrayed as a rite of passage, a journey that not only imparts knowledge [...]

In a world characterized by rapid changes and complexities, the significance of good advice cannot be overstated. From personal decisions to professional choices, the guidance we receive can profoundly impact our lives. Good [...]

The first step in the development plan is to conduct a self-analysis such as SWOT and then identify the priority areas that junior managers need to become senior managers in the same organization. After completing this section, [...]

The protagonist of the book is William Kamkwamba. When the book begins, William is a firm believer in magic and has many superstitions. Though as the book progresses, he educates himself and nurtures his curiosity for science. [...]

Related Topics

By clicking “Send”, you agree to our Terms of service and Privacy statement . We will occasionally send you account related emails.

Where do you want us to send this sample?

By clicking “Continue”, you agree to our terms of service and privacy policy.

Be careful. This essay is not unique

This essay was donated by a student and is likely to have been used and submitted before

Download this Sample

Free samples may contain mistakes and not unique parts

Sorry, we could not paraphrase this essay. Our professional writers can rewrite it and get you a unique paper.

Please check your inbox.

We can write you a custom essay that will follow your exact instructions and meet the deadlines. Let's fix your grades together!

Get Your Personalized Essay in 3 Hours or Less!

We use cookies to personalyze your web-site experience. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy .

• Instructions Followed To The Letter
• Deadlines Met At Every Stage
• Unique And Plagiarism Free