#study hacks that work

[solargeist]

Hey Brosiki love ur art so much no pressure to answer this or anything but if you have free time can you show how you draw hands? (It causes me so much pain to draw hands)

use your own hands as reference + simplify !!!!! thats wuh i do !!!

[artist-diaries]

Hey guys, I know its been like 2 and half weeks since I've been active on here and sorey about that. I'll explain everything later but, I felt like this is too important not to share.

Did you guys know the IRS has a site for students with learning modules and assessments design to teach you the basics of understanding/filing taxes?

I don't know how good it is but I plan on going through EVERYTHING today so I'll let you know. As someone without really a foundational understanding of how taxes work, this feels like a good resource to share.

Designed for students but it doesn't seem like there's anything stopping ANYONE from just going on here and learning. It look approachable and easy to understand, with links to explain tax jargon and 14 learning modules.

Is it weird to be excited about this? I am genuinely happy to have found this tbh- here I was prepared for a day of slogging through different websites explaining complicated financial terms and this is just here.

I really hope you guys take a look, because I am kind of amazed this just exists in the world and I- at 24 have never come across it or heard any of those dumb financial gurus talk about this.

https://apps.irs.gov/app/understandingTaxes/student/

Let me know if the link doesn't work, and please please pass this knowledge along. I feel like I've stumbled on a goldmine here.

[rakelrambles]

do you have that one thing that, almost without fail, makes you feel better?

for me that is my choir. regardless of how stressed i am or how bad my mood is, i will always be happy and content after a choir rehearsal. only on days when i am completely exhausted, when i feel like i am going to fall asleep or start crying the moment i slow down, only on those days is choir not enough to make everything feel right in my life again.

my choir is a space where i feel welcome, appreciated and like it is where i am meant to be any time i am there. we sing beautifully and joyfully, even when we are focused and dedicated to making our performance the best that we can. i think it is this combination of skilful musicianship and community that makes my choir so special to me.

if you have any one thing that never fails to put a smile on your face or to make everything feel right in the world, cherish it! prioritise it even when life gets busy, because that one thing will make all the busyness so much easier to bear.

i have this one thing that always makes life make sense and i am so grateful for it.

[lesbian-disaster-academic]

fun productivity hack i learned recently!!

have someone profess their undying love and affection for you so that your intimacy issues kick in and you panic and throw your phone across the room. no phone = fewer distractions! badda bing badda boom ur welcome

[antirepurp]

rediscovering my terminal obsession with weregarurumon in digimon world 1. another creature in the limbo of almost being real but not quite. permanent state of undone gone so far that even the dedicated digivolution item does nothing, for there is nothing to evolve to. should you force such an evolution to occur the game will crash. this video showcasing the state of weregarurumon as it is reads like a creepypasta, with the quality of the video and audio alongside the editing choices

no digimon obtainable through normal means evolves into weregarurumon, but if you obtain panjyamon by cheating in its evolution item, it's able to digivolve. one option is vegiemon, and the other crashes the game. i have no way of confirming it myself, but i wouldn't be surprised if the other choice was weregarurumon. i couldn't find standalone footage of the game crash caused by it, but it is shown in this video and it is beautiful and captivating and i want to hold this game crash in my arms. is this the weregarurumon i long for every day. does he make the ps1 sing to me as he tries to reach me through a game disc that doesn't let him exist

im not sure if there is a real way to ever add weregarurumon into the game as he completely lacks a model and animations, and from the little research i've done i haven't any attempts from anyone to do something like that. perhaps that'd be something only a real disassembly could make possible by breaking the limits of hacking and hex editing. either way weregarurumon remains out of reach, as placeholder data that was never elaborated upon, reachable by mortal hands but unable to be completed in the way that was intended

[enlitment]

Okay, at the risk of sounding Eurocentric & un-feminist, there is something so comforting about using MS Word to read your thesis back to you in a posh British guy voice.

Like yes sir, go off, you're spitting facts! Without it, it's much more of a 'what the hell was I trying to say here' vibe.

[harmonyhealinghub]

Acing Your Finals: Tips and Tricks to Succeed in School

Shaina Tranquilino

January 25, 2024

It's that time of the year again – finals season! As students, we all experience a mixture of stress and excitement during this period. However, with proper planning and effective strategies, you can conquer your exams with confidence. In this blog post, we will share some valuable tips and tricks to help you get through your finals successfully.

1. Start early and create a study schedule: Procrastination is an enemy you must defeat when it comes to preparing for finals. Starting early allows you to cover material thoroughly without cramming. Create a realistic study schedule that allocates specific times for each subject or topic, ensuring you have ample time to revise before the exam day.

2. Organize your study space: A cluttered desk equals a cluttered mind. Find a quiet, well-lit area where you can focus solely on your studies. Keep all necessary materials like textbooks, notebooks, and stationery within reach so that you don't waste precious studying time searching for them.

3. Use active learning techniques: Instead of passively reading through notes or textbooks, engage in active learning techniques such as summarizing information in your own words, teaching concepts to others (or even imaginary friends!), creating flashcards, or practicing problem-solving exercises. Active learning enhances understanding and retention of knowledge.

4. Prioritize challenging subjects/topics: Identify the subjects or topics that pose significant challenges for you and allocate more study time accordingly. Tackling difficult areas first ensures that you have enough energy and concentration to grasp complex concepts fully.

5. Collaborate with classmates: Forming study groups with classmates can be highly beneficial as it promotes discussion, aids in clarifying doubts, and provides different perspectives on the subject matter. Explaining concepts to others also reinforces your understanding of the material.

6. Take regular breaks: Studying continuously without taking breaks can lead to burnout and reduced productivity. Divide your study sessions into manageable chunks of time, followed by short breaks to relax and recharge. Incorporate activities like stretching or going for a walk to refresh your mind.

7. Practice past exams or sample questions: Familiarize yourself with the format and style of previous exams or sample questions relevant to your subjects. This practice helps you understand the exam's structure, identify common patterns, and gain confidence in tackling similar questions during the actual test.

8. Get sufficient sleep and maintain a healthy lifestyle: Pulling all-nighters might seem tempting, but it ultimately hampers cognitive function and retention. Aim for at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to enhance memory consolidation and concentration levels. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and engaging in physical activity contribute to overall well-being during this stressful period.

9. Seek for help when needed: Don't hesitate to reach out to teachers, tutors, or classmates if you encounter difficulties while studying. Asking for clarification or discussing challenging concepts can provide valuable insights and help clear any confusion.

10. Stay positive and manage stress: Maintaining a positive mindset is crucial throughout finals season. Avoid negative self-talk or comparisons with others' progress – focus on your own growth instead. Take regular breaks for relaxation activities such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or pursuing hobbies that bring joy.

The path to success during finals lies in effective planning, diligent effort, and adopting healthy study habits. By following these tips and tricks, you'll be better equipped to tackle your exams confidently while minimizing stress levels along the way. Remember that preparation is key – stay focused, keep calm, and give it your best shot! Good luck!

[ourunspokenepithets]

Study stuff I did today for the neurospicy people (or really anyone who isn't GOOD at the "normal" way of studying or whatever) who might happen across this post

....So.... I have to study for my chemistry exam (It's MANY chapters, SO MANY worksheets. Haven't started shit. Awesome. wow. sooo repressing the urge to read fanfic rn)

SO in the hopes of helping other people who are precariously placed rn I'm going to write the stuff that worked for me. It might only work for today, or only once but that's ok because it WORKED

Start with an embarassingly small study time and an embarassingly large study:break ratio. For me? This is 5 minutes work : 2 minutes break. Use the first few 5-2s to organise your space. Basically to clean, and to get the stuff you need. It took 3 of these for me to actually be able to do that. Since you've gotten kinda used to this workbreak flow thing, study for 5 sessions in the same format. Try to set a timed goal for five minutes, like you'll read and summarise one small section of a chapter, or you'll finish one maths problem - the whole point is to get an adrenaline rush from a timed goal. Your last break (if you're following the same repition pattern as me and doing this hour on hour) should be six minutes long. I'm actually on this one right now, writing this post). If you've gotten this far with me, CONGRATS!!! WE DID FORTY WHOLE ASS MINUTES OF PRODUCTIVE WORK THAT IS VERY VERY POGGERS MY DUDE.

So... I'm going to do my second hour of work but this time with a 10-4 format (With the Last Break of the hour being 8 minutes, so I'll update this post then? With other stuff other than break time work time shit I swear)

[generationlostexe]

Okay, seriously. What is wrong with you people. Fucking hell. Fuck off.

[raintheghost]

I hid a bunch of little tea candy things in nearly every single one of my bags or boxes or suitcases so that when I’m packing my things to move again I’ll find one every twenty or so minutes and feel better. Did not account for the fact I might be doing similar motions to get ready for traveling. It made my packing 3x faster than usual.

I fucking Pavloved myself. And it worked.

[leanbyresearch]

⏱️ Pomodoro or Deep Work? I dug into the research to find out which focus method works best for your brain. ✅ Backed by science 💡 Real tips you can try today. 🔗 Read more on LeanByResearch #Focus #Productivity #Pomodoro #DeepWork #LeanByResearch

[pritishkumar]

Mastering Time Management for Students: Tips and Tools for Success

Effective time management is the cornerstone of academic and personal success for students. By planning and prioritizing tasks, students can achieve more without feeling overwhelmed. Learn the secrets to balancing study, work, and leisure with our comprehensive guide at IT Solution Nest.

Discover proven strategies, including creating a personalized schedule, setting realistic goals, and avoiding procrastination. With the right techniques, students can boost productivity, reduce stress, and make the most of their time. Visit us today and unlock your potential!

[tibo254]

A cool article about productivity :

https://steemit.com/productivite/@t-motmot/les-meilleurs-hacks-de-productivite-pour-2024

[eliteprepsat]

Why aren’t Americans saving enough for retirement? Economics, of course, plays a factor; the twenty-first century has seen a rise in income inequality and sharp spikes in the cost of living throughout many of the nation’s major cities.

But in 2009, scientists at UCLA completed a study [PDF] that determined there may also be a neurological basis for this growing trend. Led by psychologist Hal Herschfield, the research group scanned the brains of study participants while asking them questions about (1) their Current Self, (2) their Future Self, (3) a Current Other, and (4) a Future Other.

The team found that the participants’ brain activity when answering questions about their Future Self was more consistent with their brain activity while considering a Current Other rather than their Current Self.

“Put in practical terms,” explains Becky Kane, editor at Doist, “when thinking of yourself in a month or a year or a decade, your brain registers that person in ways similar to how it would register Taylor Swift or the mailman or the lady driving the car in the next lane over.”

In short: It’s not you. It’s your brain.

Chances are you have experienced the disastrous consequences of this bad neurological deal. Cramming for a test. Pulling an all-nighter for a paper. Hastily, stressfully preparing for a project. Not to mention that when we procrastinate, we often feel stressed while we aren’t doing the work we’re supposed to be doing.

Anyway you cut it, procrastination is a killer. It hampers our ability to achieve our goals, heaps stress onto our Future Self, and it usually doesn’t provide the instant gratification to our Present Self that it seems to guarantee.

So, how do you battle this beast if it’s part of your neurological wiring?

1. RECOGNIZE THAT YOUR FUTURE SELF AND PRESENT SELF ARE THE SAME PERSON

Easier said than done, I know.

This seems especially difficult when you’re young. Many young people hold onto an unconscious conviction that they will be smarter, more efficient, and better prepared tomorrow than they are today. Tomorrow’s self, we think, is better, stronger, faster.

Except it often isn’t. It’s just as likely that tomorrow’s self will be more tired, more stressed, and equally or more distracted.

Mending the gap between your Present and Future Self can be as simple as repeating the mantra, “Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.”

But perhaps a more effective strategy is to visualize and to try to inhabit that Future Self.

In recent years, Hal Herschfield and Daniel Goldstein have used software that allows participants to visualize themselves at 60, 70, and 80 years old. They have found that seeing this Future Self helps people commit to investing more into their future retirement.

On a smaller scale—for a final project, SAT preparation, or college applications, where the goal is much closer at hand—try to very deliberately imagine your day tomorrow or next week, whenever you imagine your Future Self will be so incredibly productive. Write down the details.

What gets in the way of that Future Self? Why is this Future Self free from distractions that the Present Self struggles with? Are there reasons other than a vague conviction that you can do better later?

If not, get to work. You’ll thank your Past Self later.

2. TREAT YOUR FUTURE SELF LIKE SOMEONE YOU LOVE

This brings me to my second point, a twist on the old adage, “Treat yourself like someone you love.”

This approach entails embracing rather than resisting your neurological makeup.

Think, OK, fine: I am bound to imagine my Future Self as a whole other person. Your job is to bring that other in close.

Imagine the option before you is this: either you can do the work you need to do now or you can leave it for someone you care for deeply, someone you feel the need to protect—a sibling, a grandparent, a best friend.

Turn your Future Self into an actual other person, but one that you care for deeply. You might then find the motivation to save that loved one from your present burden.

3. FOCUS…AND EMBRACE DISTRACTION WHEN IT COMES

Here’s a trick I practiced in graduate school.

If you’re like most ambitious teenagers, you have a lot going on. Sometimes, the sheer number of tasks can leave you feeling drained before you even begin.

It’s always best to focus on one task at a time. Clear off your desk of all distractions but that one, most pressing thing. This is a key technique advocated by Randy Pausch in this popular lecture on time management.

Close out all those excess tabs on your browser and get to the one or two windows you need. Split your screen in half to a word processor and one browser window. These are practical tactics that work.

But if you find your mind drifting, you might just want to let it drift…but take control of the wheel.

It’s natural to get distracted, but instead of diving into social media, pick up another project. Work on that for the ten or two-hundred minutes (no judgment) you might otherwise waste online.

This way, you can feed that little dopamine addict in your skull while chipping away at the tasks at hand.

4. GET REAL (VISUAL) ABOUT YOUR TIME

It’s not infinite, even though it might sometimes feel that way. Teenagers often hear, “you have plenty of time!” Which is true until you have none. Time is finite and unforgiving.

One way to visualize this scarcity of time is to take a look at this chart by Tim Urban, founder of waitbutwhy.com. Urban maps out a 90-year life in weeks. If you’re facing a semi-long-term goal, like acing the SAT, you can take a slice of this chart to envision just how little time you have. (Credit to Becky Kane for linking to this.)

This chart is especially useful because it reduces time into homogenous blocks. We often imagine our future time will be filled with epiphanies struck by the wand of genius. But this big, monotonous breakdown of our weeks reminds us that that’s often not the case.

Next week is a hollow little block, just like this week. Might as well get to it now.

5. OUT OF CONTROL? FIND A COMMITMENT DEVICE

In a 2014 Elite blog post, Ethan Sawyer described how he learned to overcome procrastination (mostly):

“One day I read something that really hit me: The next time you think, ‘I’ll do it later,’ do it now instead. Repeat this 20 times. I don’t remember where I read it, but I do remember feeling tired of not getting things done. So I tried it. And it actually worked.”

This is a simple version of what Daniel Goldstein calls a “commitment device.” As a postdoctoral fellow at Columbia University, Goldstein forced himself to write five pages per day. If he didn’t, he forced himself to leave $5 on the subway in an envelope.

These are dangerous—your Present Self might manage to find an excuse as to why you can cheat just this once, or twice, or thrice, or…

But if you find your discipline waning and that you need an external control, a commitment device is worth a shot.

–

Keep in mind that we are always developing habits. Procrastinate now and you will get good (and used to) procrastinating in the future.

Our teenage years are a time to develop habits for adult life. If you don’t address your bad procrastination habits now, you are essentially, well, procrastinating. Don’t sabotage your Future Self, who will find the habit harder to kick then than it will be for your Present Self today.

[glowettee]

25 Self-Improvement Hacks to Level Up Your Life⋆🍓.

Start each day by making your bed—instant productivity boost.

Plan your week with a pastel-colored planner or digital aesthetic template.

Set monthly intentions instead of overwhelming resolutions.

Learn a new skill every quarter, like calligraphy or coding.

Invest in quality over quantity (this applies to friends and shoes).

Schedule your “glow-up” days—DIY spa treatments, anyone?

Create a “success playlist” for studying or working out.

Listen to podcasts during commutes (multitasking = efficiency).

Take aesthetic notes using color-coded pens and highlighters.

Start a “things I love” gratitude list.

Implement a digital detox every Sunday.

Read at least one self-help book per month (hello, Atomic Habits).

Wake up 15 minutes earlier to avoid rushing.

Commit to a skincare morning and nighttime routine.

Learn to say “no” to protect your peace.

Create a morning mantra and repeat it every day.

Try monthly challenges (like daily journaling or yoga).

Write down your goals and review them weekly.

Spend time in nature to reset your mindset.

Journal about your dream life and take actionable steps.

Break down big goals into tiny, manageable tasks.

Surround yourself with inspiring people or creators.

Organize your phone with aesthetic folders and wallpapers.

Romanticize drinking water with chic glasses or infused flavors.

Reward yourself for small wins—progress deserves celebration.

[literallynathandrake]

This is my pro tip for anyone struggling during finals rn. Before you start studying, you need to bore yourself before you start. Find a place with few people, turn off your phone, don't listen to music. Just be bored. The second you start doing work your brain will be so starved for stimulation that you'll immediately start being more productive at anything. Did this and cranked out the most B tier essay in less than an hour. It's cheaper than Adderall