Good study feels bad
Students who use harder study methods generally feel the least prepared, but score 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 better, make studying harder (in the right ways, and at the right times).
I spent years reading research and experimenting with new ways to study. Some worked, most didn’t. This site is basically a record of what actually helps you study faster. And I’m constantly updating it with the help of readers who report back.
Feel free to hit the blue button above and read about some ideas that survived.
Studying isn't yoga, it's powerlifting.