The 90 Minute Daily Study Schedule

By: Justice Jones

24/7 Lead Superstar

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Part 1 - Mastering the Study-Life Balance:

A Proven 90-Minute Study Schedule for the Busy Student

As an academic performance coach and college counselor, I've encountered many students who struggle to juggle their busy lives and academic commitments. The never-ending cycle of classes, homework, extra-curricular activities, and personal lives often overwhelms students. So, how can you make the most of your time and excel academically? The secret lies in having a study schedule backed by empirically effective study techniques that fit into even the busiest lives.

The Importance of a Study Schedule

Before diving into the specifics of the 90-minute study plan, let's discuss why having a study schedule is crucial. A study schedule serves as a roadmap for your academic journey. It:

Improves Time Management: Knowing what to study and when eliminates the paralysis of choice and maximizes productive time.
Enhances Focus: A set schedule trains your brain to enter a 'study mode,' improving concentration.

Relieves Stress: Being organized can significantly reduce academic-related stress and anxiety.
Boosts Retention: Scheduled revision and diversified learning improve retention and understanding of the subject matter.

The 90-Minute Study Plan Explained

The 90-minute study plan aims to break down your core subjects and alternate non-core subjects into digestible daily chunks. Here's how it works:

Core Classes (60 minutes)
Study 20 minutes each for your three most important core classes.
Monday: Math (20 min), Science (20 min), English (20 min)
Tuesday: Math (20 min), Science (20 min), English (20 min)

... and so on.

Non-Core Classes (30 minutes)

Choose two non-core subjects and alternate them every other day for 15 minutes each.
Example:

Monday: History (15 min), Music (15 min)
Tuesday: Spanish (15 min), Technology (15 min)
Wednesday: History (15 min), Music (15 min)
Thursday: Spanish (15 min), Technology (15 min)

... and so on.

Note-taking: Your Key to Success

During your classes, taking effective notes is crucial. They serve as the backbone of your study sessions. Employ the Cornell Method or Mind-Mapping based on the subject matter for efficient note-taking. Use the 20-minute study sessions to revisit your notes, clarify doubts, and reinforce information.

Study Groups for Collaborative Learning (Twice a Week)

Active participation in study groups at least twice a week can significantly enhance your understanding of complex subjects. These sessions encourage:

Peer Teaching: Explaining a topic helps you understand it better.

Collaborative Problem-Solving: Multiple perspectives can lead to better solutions.
Accountability: A group setting can motivate you to stay on track.
Implementing the Plan Amidst a Busy Schedule
Be Consistent: Choose the same time slot every day to train your brain for 'study mode.'
Use Technology: Utilize study apps for time management and note-taking.
Time-Bound Breaks: For every 30-minute study session, take a 5-minute break to relax your mind.

Empirical Techniques for Successful Studying

Research suggests that active recall and spaced repetition can dramatically improve the efficiency of your studying. Active recall involves actively stimulating memory recall during the learning process. Instead of merely reading the text, quiz yourself or use flashcards to engage with the material. Spaced repetition involves reviewing and testing yourself on material over increasing intervals over time.

The Importance of Flexibility and Adaptation

While a study schedule is crucial, it's equally important to be flexible. Sometimes, unexpected commitments or situations may arise that conflict with your scheduled study time. The key here is to adapt and compensate for the lost time at your earliest opportunity.

How to Adapt:

Prioritize: If you missed studying for a core subject one day, prioritize it the next day.
Adjust Timings: Couldn't make your 90-minute slot? Don't worry—try breaking it into smaller chunks throughout the day.
Weekend Review: Use the weekend as a cushion for catching up or revising crucial subjects.

The Importance of Breaks and Mental Health

In our quest for academic excellence, we often neglect mental health. Short breaks, physical activity, and relaxation techniques can significantly enhance your concentration and effectiveness.

Implementing Breaks:

The Pomodoro Technique: Work for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. This aligns perfectly with your 90-minute study plan.
Physical Activity: Incorporate short walks or stretches during your breaks.
Mindfulness: Practice mindfulness or short meditation sessions to clear your mind.

Leveraging Technology for Success

In today's digital world, various apps can help you stick to your study schedule and manage your time more efficiently.

Calendar Apps: Use Google Calendar or iCal to set reminders for your study slots.
Note-taking Apps: Apps like OneNote, Apple Notes, or Evernote can be highly beneficial for maintaining digital notes.
Time Management Apps: Consider using time management apps like RescueTime and Pomodoro timers to track how you spend your time on the computer.

Monitor, Assess, and Revise

After a few weeks of following your new schedule, take some time to evaluate your performance. Are you meeting your study goals? Are you scoring better on tests and assignments? If not, some adjustments may be required.

Monitor: Keep track of your academic performance.
Assess: Evaluate your study techniques—are they effective?
Revise: Make necessary adjustments to your study schedule or methods based on your assessment.

Part Two: The Art of Consistent Learning - Why Being a Tortoise Wins the Race

The Timeless Lesson of Consistency over Intensity

We've all heard the adage, "Slow and steady wins the race," popularized by the tale of the Tortoise and the Hare. While the fable entertains kids, its message also holds a profound truth applicable to learners at all stages of life. The concept of gradual, consistent progress often outweighs any benefits gained from brief, intense efforts.

The Pitfall of Over-Commitment

Let's delve into real-world examples. Suppose you were eager to become a guitar maestro. On your first day, your excitement led you to strum away for hours, only to end up with sore, blistered fingers that halted your practice for days. Similar scenarios play out for those diving headfirst into learning a new language. An initial enthusiasm leads to an intense, hour-long session of verb conjugation, making you rethink if you're cut out for language learning at all.

This phenomenon isn't rare; it's a universal experience of biting off more than one can chew. Research shows that last-minute cramming doesn't contribute to long-term retention of information. What does work is a principle known as spaced repetition or distributed practice. Here, consistent, regular revisiting content is more effective than gulping down large chunks of information in one go.

Consistency: The Builder of Habits

But why is this measured approach so effective? Consistency isn't just about retention; it's a cornerstone for habit formation. Studies indicate that it takes approximately 66 days to cultivate a habit. This habit-forming process is critical in learning contexts, whether it's practicing a musical instrument, acquiring a new language, or excelling in academic subjects.

Just like in the educational programs of 24/7 Teach, students are encouraged to study in small but consistent increments. This repeated exposure to study material, tailored to each student's needs, reinforces learning, ultimately making studying a habit rather than a chore.

From Struggle to Second Nature

Once you cross the threshold of habit formation, something magical happens: the task no longer feels burdensome. For musicians, daily practice becomes an integral part of their lives; language learners find it easier to allocate time for consistent study. Similarly, students following a disciplined study schedule find the process more natural and less stressful.

Be the Tortoise in Your Learning Journey

So, in your quest for educational triumph, model yourself after the tortoise rather than the hare. A well-paced, consistent learning strategy enhances retention and turns the sometimes daunting task of studying into a routine activity. By adopting this approach, you're not just paving the way for academic success but setting the stage for lifelong learning.

By instilling consistency into your 90-minute study schedule, as discussed in part one, you magnify the effectiveness of every single minute. Your study groups, note-taking, and empirical study techniques will all benefit you, shaping you into a more resilient and successful learner. So remember, whether you're aiming for scholarly achievement or mastering a new skill, be consistent; your potential is boundless.

Final Thoughts

Creating a study schedule may seem tedious, but the benefits are enormous. Even if you're balancing a hectic schedule, dedicating just 90 minutes daily to focused studying can significantly impact your academic performance and mental well-being. From effective note-taking to empirical study methods, incorporating these expert tips into your routine will set you on the path to academic success.

Remember, hard work and intelligent work are the keys to a successful academic journey. Adopting effective study strategies and a well-thought-out 90-minute study schedule can be your most brilliant move yet. So make that commitment today and watch how a mere 90 minutes can radically transform your academic life.

Did you know early intervention in academic challenges can make all the difference? If you're ready to bolster your teen's academic performance, schedule a complimentary strategy session with our dedicated 24/7 Academic Performance Coaches.

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