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Boosting Memory with Short Bursts of Study

An open book and notebook

Learn how short bursts of study with regular breaks are a powerful tool that can help you master your study sessions.


Here’s a little nugget of wisdom that can revolutionise the way you study, work, or learn: the basic ideas of integrating breaks into everyone’s schedule. It is really one of those rules that, quite often, many find very difficult to follow, but ignoring it can cost a lot. So, lets dive in and explain in detail one straightforward but game-changing concept – why it is beneficial to break up your study sessions.



Why Breaks Work Wonders


A graph showing the effect of repetition on memory recall

Think about this: talking of the mind when for instance you want to memorise fifty new words what do you find is that the initial words and the end words are easier to memorise? That is because of what in psychology is referred to as the primacy and recency effects.


The primacy effect comes into play right from the initial time you open your books to study, when your brain is most active. It enables you to have a better understanding of the topic due to the concentration you give to it. However, with time, this sharpness is lost and this is usually accompanied by a decline of learning and memory acquisition. This is the onset of the middle of the project where you hit the wall or what others call the midlife crisis in project.


There is also the recency effect, for example, if you are revising and your brain dulls down halfway through, when you near the time you should stop studying, your brain wakes up fully because you’re almost done. It makes it simpler to recall the most current data that is in the RAM. But, as you would probably expect, the middle portion of this study session is typically affected, which results in less recall of the material discussed during this part.



The Pomodoro Technique


A tried and tested method of studying is the Pomodoro technique, an effective time management system that was created by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. The idea is simple yet powerful: do work or study in concentrations which are called “Pomodoros,” this is for 25 minutes then take a break for 5 minutes. So, four Pomodoros, or approximately two hours, are followed by a break of 15 to 30 minutes.


Why does this work so well? Knowing that a break is just a few minutes away keeps you motivated and focused. It’s like having a mini reward system built right into your study routine. These short, frequent breaks help you maintain your concentration and prevent mental fatigue, making your study sessions more productive and less of a marathon.



How Breaks Enhance Your Learning


Taking breaks isn’t just about giving your brain a rest—it’s about making your study time more effective. When you split your study periods into shorter intervals, you avoid the dreaded mid-session slump and make it easier to stay engaged. This approach also helps with memory retention, as frequent breaks keep your mind fresh and focused.


Repetition is another key to effective learning. Just as advertisers repeat catchy slogans to ensure you remember them, going over key points multiple times helps reinforce your memory.


And let’s not forget the power of making your study sessions engaging. Incorporating a bit of humour or presenting information in a unique way can make it more memorable. This ties into the Von Restorff effect, where unusual or standout elements are easier to recall.



Tips for Effective Study Breaks


To get the most out of your breaks, start by using a timer or a Pomodoro app. This helps you stick to your study and break intervals and ensures you’re making the most of your time. Building a routine of regular breaks can help you stay focused and avoid burnout.


During your breaks, choose activities that genuinely refresh you. Whether it’s taking a quick walk, doing some light stretching, or simply enjoying a few moments of quiet, pick what helps you recharge. Try to avoid distractions that could eat into your break time, like scrolling through social media. Be sure to try other study hacks if you notice a slowdown in the effectiveness of these techniques or motivation.



Wrapping It Up


Breaking your study time into shorter, focused intervals and incorporating regular breaks can make a huge difference in your learning efficiency. It’s all about finding a balance that keeps you engaged and prevents burnout. So next time you sit down to study or work, remember the magic of breaks and the Pomodoro Technique. Embrace these strategies, and you’ll find your study sessions are not only more productive but also a lot more enjoyable.


So, grab that timer, take those breaks, and watch your productivity and retention levels soar. Happy studying!

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