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What are the best ways to overcome the need for sleep while doing intense studying?

24/5/2020

What are the best ways to overcome the need for sleep while doing intense studying?

By Jay Wiwchar, Exploring my options - First appeared at Quora on April 6, 2014 -

Edited to fit Kenyan Student Context

I actually discovered this method by accident. I have no Idea If it will work for anyone else but It really helped for me. And as far as cramming like you are doing (not the best method of learning though), I suggest the only method for you Is not cramming, but taking breaks every 45 to an hour for the same amount of time, doing something Involving your physical aptitude.

But here is my study method for future, If you choose to use It.

I am a university student who is also working a night shift as an electrician 10 hrs.’ per day, during the week. I thought it would be Impossible to effectively study because we are only given 4- 15mIn breaks no half hour for lunch or anything long.

At the end of each night, right before I go to bed I actually scan all of the Information I went through that shift and continue with the process the next day.

What are the best ways to overcome the need for sleep while doing intense studying?

This actually proved to be a really effective way to learn.

First I gather all my notes and textbooks, write-ups etc.

Then I begin by summarizing each component by handwriting It down on paper. As If I was making a cheat sheet. I only look at one component during each break. Then between breaks I am working with tools and am exercising my creative and physical aptitudes.

The following break I move onto another component regardless of completing the last one. This trains me to find more important concepts because I know I have a time constraint. I seem to retain it better because the 2 hours following I tend to regurgitate It In my mind. At the end of each night, right before I go to bed I actually scan all of the Information I went through that shift and continue with the process the next day.

After I have reviewed each section once (usually takes a day or two), I go back and repeat the process. I am astonished at how much Information I have retained and can apply effectively.

I just keep doing It this way up until the exam.

When I do actually sit through the exam even If I don’t know everything about everything I have never felt more relaxed and calm. I know I have put in a solid effort and also realize that being an expert with anything is subjective.

When It comes to getting marks back; I tend to float around the B+ to A (85-95%). Haven’t walked away with an A+ but I am sure It is possible in a matter of time.