What are good study skills for teens?
Have you been searching for “how to study smarter, not harder” or “study skills for teens”? You’re not alone! Many students struggle with how to study effectively, but the good news is that there are proven strategies to help you study smarter, not harder.
Not every study technique works for everyone, but trying a few new methods can boost your learning, improve recall, and make studying less stressful. Whether you’re wondering how to use your notes more effectively or how to study beyond just rereading your textbook, this list of study skills for teens will help you take control of your learning.
By organizing your study time and space, you’ll improve your ability to retain information, recall it when needed, and have more free time for the things you enjoy. Here are six proven ways to study smarter, not harder!
1. Take Notes the Smart Way (Cornell Note-Taking Method)
Better notes = less stress when it’s time to study! Whether you use a notebook, digital app, or Word document, the way you take notes matters.
One of the most effective strategies is the Cornell Note-Taking Method, which divides your notes into three sections:
✅ Cues: Write key terms or questions to test yourself later.
✅ Notes: Record key information during class.
✅ Summary: Write a short recap to reinforce learning.
When studying, cover the “Notes” section and use the “Cues” to test yourself. Reviewing the “Summary” before your next study session will help trigger memory recall.
🔗 Learn more: Cornell Notes Step-by-Step Guide
2. Use Pictures to Remember Words (Dual Coding: Words + Visuals)
Your brain remembers pictures better than words alone! This is called dual coding, and it’s a powerful way to boost memory.
Try these easy ways to use visuals in your study routine:
🎨 Sketch quick doodles or draw stick figures to represent ideas.
📊 Use charts, diagrams, or infographics to organize complex information.
📝 Highlight key concepts and connect them with symbols or arrows.
Visual learners and doodlers will love this method! You don’t need artistic skills—just create simple, meaningful images that make sense to you.
🔗 Learn more: The Learning Scientists on Dual Coding
3. Quiz Yourself to Remember More (Active Recall & Spaced Repetition)
Testing yourself is one of the best ways to learn! Instead of passively rereading notes, actively recall the information by quizzing yourself.
📌 How to do it:
✅ Use flashcards (digital or paper) to test your memory. Try apps like Quizlet or Anki.
✅ Cover your notes and try to recall key points before checking.
✅ Space out your review sessions over several days instead of cramming (this is called spaced repetition).
By practicing active recall and spaced repetition, you’ll retain more information and feel more confident on test day.
🔗 Learn more: Active Recall & Memory Boosting
4. Set Up a Smart Study Spot (Eliminating Distractions)
Your study environment affects your focus and productivity.
🛑 Avoid these common distractions:
❌ Cluttered desks → A messy space can distract your brain.
❌ TV, podcasts, or loud music → Background noise can make studying ineffective.
❌ Phones & social media → Turn off notifications or use apps like Cold Turkey to block distractions.
✅ Create a distraction-free study space by:
📌 Keep only the materials you need nearby.
📌 Use earplugs or white noise if studying in a noisy place.
📌 Put your phone in another room or inside your backpack.
A calm, organized workspace will help you study smarter not harder!
🔗 Learn more: How to Avoid Distractions While Studying
5. Use a Timer to Stay Focused (The Pomodoro Technique)
Ever feel like you sit down to study for hours but don’t actually get much done? The Pomodoro Technique helps you focus in short bursts while avoiding burnout.
⏳ How it works:
1️⃣ Study for 25 minutes without distractions.
2️⃣ Take a 5-minute break (walk around, stretch, breathe).
3️⃣ Repeat 3-4 times, then take a longer break (15-30 minutes).
This method is great for keeping your brain fresh and engaged. You can use a kitchen timer or a free app like Pomofocus to track your study sessions. 🍅Fun fact: The Italian creator named this time management strategy after his tomato-shaped kitchen timer!
🔗 Learn more: Pomodoro Study Method
6. Sleep Well & Stay Calm (Sleep & Mindfulness for Learning)
Skipping sleep to cram is a BAD idea! Research shows that sleep helps your brain absorb, organize, and recall information better.
📌 Why sleep matters for studying:
✅ Helps store new memories so you don’t forget them.
✅ Boosts problem-solving skills and creativity.
✅ Improves concentration and reduces stress.
Instead of cramming the night before a test, try this healthier study plan:
💡 Study a little each day before the test, so your brain has time to process the information.
💡 Wind down before bed with a book, a walk, or a quiet hobby (no screens!).
💡 Use mindfulness techniques like deep breathing or guided meditation to reduce stress before studying.
🔗 Learn more: How Sleep Affects Learning & Memory
Conclusion
These six proven strategies will help you study smarter not harder by organizing your study time, improving focus, and making learning more efficient.
✅ Take better notes with pictures and summaries.
✅ Quiz yourself instead of rereading.
✅ Study in short, focused bursts with a timer.
✅ Set up a distraction-free space and put away your phone.
✅ Get enough sleep and take mindful breaks.
By using these study skills for teens, you’ll feel more confident, less stressed, and better prepared for tests. Try a few of these methods and see what works best for you!
📥 Download this free study strategies infographic and share it with friends to help everyone study smarter!
Table Talk: What’s your favorite way to study? What is one tip that should have been included on this list?
