Tired of being an academic victim? Move over, Rory Gilmore—a slightly frazzled freshman is here to help you level up your study seshes and become the ultimate academic weapon. And no, it doesn’t involve 15 hours of grinding in the library with a lukewarm latte. 

These simple do’s and don’ts will help you study smarter (not harder!) before the school year starts. 

Do: Change Locations

I’m no expert in feng shui, but my personal study rule is: Brain feeling dead, move off your bed. 

OK, I just made that up, but the point stands. Your room is where you sleep and, let’s be honest, scroll the FYP. It’s not always the easiest place to focus.

If you find yourself in a funk, switch locations. Head to the library, move to the kitchen table or even just to a different room in your house. (Bonus points if you claim a lucky study spot in the library and make it your go-to whenever you need to lock in.) 

Don’t: Wait for Motivation

Motivation comes and goes—if you keep waiting for the perfect moment, riiight after you finish watching this episode of Ginny & Georgia (which we all know is code for binging the entire season), you’ll never get started. 

Instead, try writing anything on the page. It can be as simple as just the date, title and one sentence with your overall argument, or what formula you think you’ll need to answer the first question. Once you’ve started, it’s wayyy easier to keep going. 

Do: Carry on Exercising

I know StudyTube has everyone convinced that spending 12 hours straight chained to a screen is a good idea, but hear me (and the experts) out. 

Exercise has been linked to better memory, stronger thinking skills and lower stress levels. Plus, moving your body can help you sleep better—which means you’re less likely to spend the next day sleepy. And no, you don’t need to run a 5K every day. A quick walk, a bike ride, a Sabrina Carpenter dance break in your bedroom or even a few jumping jacks while your smoothie blends totally count.

Don’t: Compare Yourself to Your Friends

We all know *that* girl. She’s awake at 5 a.m., never misses an assignment, shows up with color-coded notes and extra pens and insists “she’s not even that smart.” While we’re happy for her success, it’s natural to feel jealous of someone who seems to do it all, while you’re just trying to remember where you put your calculator for chem. 

It’s easy to compare yourself to people who seem to have everything together. But instead of spiralling, get curious. Ask your friends what’s working for them. Form a study group. Quiz each other before tests. Swap revision tips. You might pick up a few game-changing ideas—and you’ll get to spend time with your besties, too.

Do: Find Your Study Style

Confession time: I never use highlighters. Why? Because I’d end up highlighting the entire page.

As tempting as it sounds to hop on the latest Pinterest aesthetic, three days before your exam is probably *not* the time to bust out the pastels. Think of it like trying on clothes at the mall. That cherry red, polka dot print may look flattering on your bestie, but you’ve always looked better in forest green. The same goes for studying. Maybe you’re a flashcard girlie. Maybe mind maps are your thing. Maybe you learn best by talking through concepts out loud. Whatever works, stick with it.

P.S. Different styles work for different subjects. Flashcards could work for factual recall in bio, but mind maps might be better for AP English Lit.

Academic weapons aren’t built overnight (unless you’re secretly Rory Gilmore). So don’t stress if you haven’t perfected your routine before the school year starts. Focus on building habits that work for you, staying consistent and giving yourself permission to take breaks when you need them. Good luck, girl!

Looking for more advice to unlock your academic weapon era? Check these out:
📚 This Is How Your Going To Stay Motivated Through Finals Season
📚 Study Tips To Help You Have A Rory Gilmore Semester
📚 Our Official A+ Study Track (That Actually Works)

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