Write Before You ReadInstead of starting with reading your textbook, try writing down what you already know about the topic first. This forces your brain to recall information and sets the stage for deeper understanding. When you read after writing, your mind becomes more active, and you begin to notice what is new or what you misunderstood earlier. This approach strengthens memory and encourages more meaningful learning. Create Personal TriggersAttach new information to something personal, a place, a face, or even a funny story. For example, if you are learning about gravity, think of dropping your water bottle in class. Personal triggers help your brain form stronger associations, making it easier to remember facts during tests. This technique works well for abstract topics or historical events, where a little imagination can go a long way. Use Silent Walks for RevisionGo for a short walk without any distractions and use the time to mentally review what you have studied. The act of walking helps clear your mind and boosts focus. Instead of using a book or screen, recall facts or explain concepts to yourself silently. You can also quiz yourself in your head. This method helps with clarity and strengthens memory through movement. Talk to Yourself in QuestionsRather than just repeating facts, try speaking to yourself in the form of questions. For example, instead of saying “Water boils at 100 degrees,” ask, “Why does water boil at 100 degrees?” This method activates your critical thinking and shifts your brain from passive learning to active understanding. It is a simple trick that makes information stick without relying on memorisation alone. Switch the Subject Mid-TopicStop halfway through a topic and switch to another. Come back to the first topic after a short while. This may feel strange at first, but it helps break mental patterns and trains your brain to adapt. Switching in the middle also forces your brain to pick up from where it left off, which boosts focus and improves long-term retention. Draw a Timeline for EverythingEven if the subject is not history, try placing events, concepts, or steps in a timeline format. Whether it is a science process or a maths solution, arranging things in time order helps your brain follow a clear path. You start seeing how ideas connect and change over time. This trick improves understanding and gives structure to what may seem like scattered information. Test Yourself on Paper, Not Just in MindMany students quiz themselves mentally, but writing your answers on paper makes a huge difference. It slows you down and reveals gaps in your understanding that may not show up in your head. Practice writing answers without looking at your notes, especially for subjects that need clear explanations. You will be more prepared for actual exams and better at expressing ideas. Pause at Confusing WordsWhen reading, stop at words or phrases that feel unclear even slightly. Take a few moments to check or think about what they mean. Many students skip over tricky words assuming they will understand the bigger picture later. But real understanding often lies in those small details. Building this habit helps improve comprehension and builds confidence in difficult topics. Copy and Modify QuestionsInstead of only solving textbook questions, copy them down and change small parts like numbers, situations, or keywords. Then try answering your version. This method pushes you to understand the structure of questions and think from different angles. It prepares you better for tricky exam questions and builds problem-solving skills beyond just memorising answers.