Good study feels bad
Effective studying doesn't feel effective.
In several studies, students who used the hardest methods felt the least prepared, but scored the highest (Karpicke & Blunt, 2011; Kornell & Bjork, 2008; Soderstrom & Bjork, 2015).
Actual performance
Predicted performance
Adapted from Karpicke, J. D., & Blunt, J. R. (2011). Retrieval practice produces more learning than elaborative studying with concept mapping. Science, 331(6018), 772–775.
vs.
A core theme in the science of learning is desirable difficulty (Bjork & Bjork, 2011). To study faster, make studying harder (in the right ways).
I spent years testing study methods that maximize this desirable difficulty. They're extremely efficient, and they're specific: not the vague advice you're used to (e.g., "active recall and spaced repetition"). They might not be perfect, but they'll never be vague.
The mastery loop is the most efficient way to study facts and concepts. If you use it, it'll save you way more time than the 10 minutes it takes to learn. Feel free to hit the blue button above and read about it.
Studying isn't yoga, it's powerlifting.