Junior Achievement at Green River College

1. Create a Routine

• Set a consistent study schedule: Help them figure out when they focus best—whether it's after school, in the evening, or on weekends—and stick to that schedule. 
• Use a planner or digital calendar: Encourage them to keep track of assignments, tests, and important dates. This helps prevent last-minute cramming and teaches time management. 

2. Stay Organized

• Keep a tidy workspace: A clutter-free desk or study area makes it easier to focus and reduces distractions. 

• Organize materials: Use binders, folders, or apps to keep class notes, assignments, and projects in order. This will help them find what they need quickly and reduce stress. 

3. Set Goals / Break Tasks Into Steps

• Set small, achievable goals: Whether it's finishing a chapter, completing a math problem set, or reviewing a set of flashcards, breaking big tasks into smaller ones makes studying more manageable. 

• Use a to-do list: Cross things off as they go, which can give a sense of accomplishment and motivation. 

4. Active Study Techniques

• Use active recall: Instead of passively reading through notes, encourage them to quiz themselves or explain the material out loud, like they're teaching it to someone else. This strengthens memory. 

• Use spaced repetition: Revisit material regularly rather than cramming it all in at once. Apps like Anki or Quizlet can help with flashcards. 

• Try different study methods: Some students benefit from group study sessions, others from independent work. Experiment with methods like mind mapping, summarizing, or using multimedia (videos, podcasts). 

5. Avoid Procrastination

• Use the “Pomodoro Technique”: Set a timer for 25 minutes of focused study, followed by a 5-minute break. After 4 cycles, take a longer break. 

• Eliminate distractions: Turn off phone notifications, TV, or other distractions while studying. 

6. Practice Self-Care

• Get enough sleep: Students need rest to consolidate what they've learned. Make sure they're getting 8–10 hours of sleep a night. 

• Exercise and eat well: Physical activity boosts brain function, and a healthy diet helps with concentration and energy levels. 

• Stress management: Help them recognize when they're feeling overwhelmed and encourage breaks, relaxation, or talking about their stress. 

7. Develop Critical Thinking Skills

• Ask questions: Encourage them to ask questions about the material to deepen their understanding. 

• Reflect on learning: After finishing a study session, it’s useful to take a few minutes to review what was learned and identify areas that might need more attention. 

8. Seek Help When Needed

• Ask for help: Remind them that it’s okay to reach out to teachers, tutors, or classmates if they’re struggling with a concept. 

• Use online resources: Websites like Khan Academy, YouTube educational channels, or even apps like Duolingo or Grammarly can be useful for reinforcing concepts. 

9. Balance School and Fun

• Take breaks: Studying isn’t all about hitting the books. Let them have time for hobbies, friends, and relaxation. A good balance will prevent burnout. 

• Reward themselves: After completing a study session or finishing an assignment, it can help to reward themselves with something enjoyable (playing a game, watching a show, etc.).