We all know the usual study tips: make a schedule, take breaks, and get enough sleep. But what if the secret to acing that exam or researching for an essay isn’t just about sticking to the basics? What if the most effective study hacks are the ones that sound a little...odd? From weird habits to downright strange techniques, some of the best ways to boost your brainpower aren’t exactly what you’d expect. Let’s dive into some weird study hacks that might just surprise you.
Chew gum
Who doesn’t love chewing gum? It’s not just a tasty distraction, it might just help you better retain information. If you chew the same flavour of gum while studying and during the exam, the scent and taste association can trigger memories tied to what you’ve learned. So, next time you’re deep into your notes, grab a stick and chew your way to efficient memorization.
Move around
This one’s for all the kinesthetic learners out there—or those who just need to stretch their legs! Moving around can be a great way to lock in all those topics that can often feel overwhelming. Take a stroll around your house or walk through a familiar location while associating specific facts, themes, or topics with the objects around you. For example, as you pass your bookshelf, think of a key point from your history lecture. The movement can help keep your brain engaged, and the connection to physical space will make the information stick better.
Laugh
OK, this one might make you look a little funny if you’re studying in a public space, but hear me out: laughter can actually help you remember things. Studies show that laughing can stimulate circulation and relax muscles, reducing stress and improving your mood. It also helps lower cortisol levels, which, when elevated, are linked to decreased memory and learning. So, next time you’re stressed, take a break and watch something funny or share a laugh with a friend. It’s not only a great mood booster, but it can also elevate your studying routine.
Scents
This one’s a little like the chewing gum trick, but instead of flavour associations, it’s all about fragrance. Certain smells can trigger memories and associations in your brain, so try using a specific perfume, cologne, or even hand cream while you study. When it’s time for the exam, wear that same scent to trigger those memories and help you recall the material you studied.
If you’ve ever smelled sunscreen and instantly recalled a summer vacation, that’s the kind of scent-memory connection we’re talking about. A familiar aroma can help you re-access your study notes like a scent-triggered flashcard.
Font change
Try using an unorthodox font for your study notes. It might sound odd, but the unfamiliarity of a new font can create stronger associations in your brain, making it easier to remember specific facts. For example, if you take note of a fact in bubble letters, your brain might remember it in a totally different way than if it were in a plain, default font.
Little tip: Apparently, Times New Roman is known to be one of the fastest fonts to read, so if you're working from an online text, try switching to it and see if it helps your brain process the material quicker.
Colour coding & doodling
Colour coding isn’t just for organizing your notes, it can actually help boost your focus and memory. By associating different colours with different themes or ideas, you create visual cues that can make the information easier to recall. Doodling also plays a role here, keeping your brain physically engaged while you study. If you’re studying a specific concept, try using a certain colour for all related notes and sketch a quick visual reminder. It’ll help reinforce the material in a way that’s both creative and effective.
Music as a mnemonic device
Music isn’t just a way to fill the silence while you study, it can actually be a powerful mnemonic device—a tool that helps your brain remember information. By pairing specific songs or tunes with certain subjects or topics, your brain begins to link the music to the material. It’s like creating an auditory shortcut to your study notes, making studying not only productive but much more fun as well!
Looking for more help with your studying? Dal offers study workshops, personal coaching, and tutoring.