You’ll be able to study more efficiently if you work in a comfortable space without distractions. Set up a desk or table in a quiet area of your home. A corner of your bedroom might be a good spot. Let other people in your household know that you are studying and don’t want to be disturbed.   Choose an area without a TV. If you like to work with noise, try listening to soft music. You might find that you work well in a corner of the library or in a nearby coffee shop. Bring everything you need with you to your study area so that you don’t have to get back up. This might include books, notes, water, or snacks. If you’re tempted to check your phone frequently, leave it outside of your study space. A quick way to retain information is to write an outline. An outline will help you to segment your studying so that the topics don’t blend together, which could be confusing. Use an outline style that works for you. For example, your outline might include notes on each section of the textbook. Or you might start by listing main points first, and then adding details in later.  You’ll be able to sneak in quick study sessions by just looking at your outline instead of all of the material. For a test on World War II, your outline headings might be:  Origins European Theater Pacific Theater The home front You’ll be able to study much more quickly if you are already familiar with the material. Make sure that you don’t just attend class, but that you are mentally present. Sit up straight and listen to the teacher. Pay attention when other students ask questions or make comments.  Engage with the material by participating in a constructive debate with other students. Take good notes by noting key points and jotting down questions you need to ask. Take 10 minutes every day to look over your notes. This will help you retain the information. When it comes time to study, you’ll really just need to review what you’ve already learned. Make flashcards of key terms if that system works for you. Don’t waste time studying by trying to figure out what the teacher means or what they want. Before you start studying, ask your teacher about anything that is unclear. You could say, “Will the test include Chapter 23?” You could also ask, “Is it more important that we know exact dates or should I focus on the larger themes?”
Set up a study space. Make an outline. Pay attention in class. Review your notes each day. Ask questions if you are confused.