Study hacks

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Yes, You Read the Title Right—Study Hacks!

Oh yes, love—study hacks! And no, before you roll your eyes thinking, “Ugh, not another ‘use active recall and the Feynman technique’ thing,” don’t fret. I promise you, this isn't one of those posts.

I’ve been right where you are. Searching YouTube endlessly, asking ChatGPT for miracle solutions, downloading every flashy study app the internet throws at me. I’ve been that girl. But through all of it, I’ve finally found a study method that suits me—and that’s the trick, really. Finding what works for you.

Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying the good ol’ Feynman technique or active recall is rubbish. In fact, they’re solid tools in my toolkit. But what I want to share here goes beyond those classics. This is about real study tips for when you're burned out, fatigued, unmotivated, or just straight-up done.

You know that feeling when your mind wants to study, but your body checks out—or vice versa? Exactly. So I'm kicking off a series on how I tackle those days. From the apps I use to the methods I swear by (because I’ve used them, not just heard of them), I’ll take you through every step. Consider this your sign to find your way. That’s the real question—“What is my way?” Ask yourself that.

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✨ The Motivated Days

Let’s start with what I call the motivated days. You know those ones—when you're fired up, ready to conquer the world, already plotting how you're going to dominate physics like it’s your destiny. Sounds familiar? Yes, yes… I’ve lived it too.

But here’s the kicker: even the most motivated days can flop. So let’s talk about how to stop that from happening.

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❌ When You Don’t Plan Your Day Early

Motivation’s great, but without a proper plan? You'll be as lost as a sock in a tumble dryer.

There was this one time—I woke up buzzing with energy. Classes were short that day, so I was excited to finally get into my study mode. I thought, “Yep, I’m going to smash this topic today.” But guess what? I hadn’t actually planned out what to read.

So instead of diving into my notes, I spent 30 minutes planning—time that could’ve gone into revision. It drained me. And trust me, motivation doesn’t stick around forever. I ended up doing a fraction of what I’d hoped. That’s why I always say: write it down. Don’t just plan in your head—put pen to paper. It clears the fog.

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📝 How to Plan Like a Student Who’s Got Their Life Together (Even If You Don’t)

Planning is more than scribbling “study at 2pm” in a journal. It’s about clarity.

Here’s how I do it:

1. Start with subjects – What do you need to study today?

2. Break it into topics – Be specific. “Physics” is vague. “Newton’s Laws” is better.

3. Set your time blocks – Be realistic. You don’t have to finish a whole textbook in one go.

4. Track your strengths and weaknesses – Know what you’ve mastered, and what still needs work.

This system helps keep my brain from doing somersaults. And don’t worry—I’ll break this down more in another post. Planning itself is a full topic!

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📵 Doing What You’re Not Supposed to Be Doing When You’re Supposed to Be Studying

Now, this one hits home. Picture this: you’re meant to start reading at 1:30 PM. But… Instagram. Then you say 2 PM. Then 2:30. Before you know it, it’s 4 PM, and you’re sitting there fuming at yourself. Been there? Same.

This isn’t just laziness. It’s lack of discipline—and discipline is more than just “try harder.”

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💪 The Big Word: Discipline

We’ve all heard it: “Be disciplined.” But let me tell you, it’s not just a motivational quote for Pinterest boards. Discipline is what you fall back on when motivation runs dry—and it will run dry.

Discipline is choosing the uncomfortable now for the reward later. It's telling yourself: I’m doing this not because I feel like it, but because I said I would. Discipline becomes your best mate when you realise motivation alone won't save you.

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This is just the beginning of this series, love. I’ve got loads more to say—about apps, tricks, playlists, and everything that helps me win the study war. And don’t worry, I’ll keep it real. I won’t give you what sounds smart; I’ll give you what works.

Stick around. We’re only getting started.

Much love,

Stiora – your official study yapper 😛💅

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