Why is it so Hard to Study?
Most people haven't been formally taught learning strategies; instead, we have adopted techniques that felt intuitive [1]. Understanding how we learn and recognizing our barriers is important to overcome them and make the learning process more effective. Keep reading to delve into the reasons why studying can be hard and get insights on how to start tackling these obstacles.
You Have Not Yet Found the Right Studying Methods for You
One significant reason learning can be so tough is that many people haven't discovered the studying methods that work best for them. Everyone has unique learning preferences, and a technique that works for one person might not work for another. It's important to try different study methods to find the ones that align with your personal learning style. Check out our guide on what study method is best for you.
A few examples of study methods that might work for you are the Blurting study method (which involves writing down everything you recall about a topic from memory), the Energy Cycles approach (which aligns your study sessions with your natural energy patterns), and the Block study method (which focuses on studying one subject intensely for a set period before switching to another).
Also, some people are visual learners who benefit from diagrams, charts, and videos. Others are auditory learners who retain information better through listening to lectures or discussions. Experimenting with various strategies and techniques can help you identify what works best for you.
Moreover, varying your study techniques can keep the process interesting and prevent monotony.
You Are Facing a Lack of Motivation
A significant barrier to effective studying is a lack of motivation, as the effectiveness of cognitive learning is greatly influenced by the students' level of motivation [2]. Without a clear sense of purpose or interest in the subject matter, it's easy to procrastinate and avoid studying altogether. To combat this, it's important to set specific, achievable goals that give you a sense of direction and purpose.
Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks and reward yourself for reaching milestones. Connecting the material to your personal interests or long-term goals can also make studying feel more relevant and engaging. Additionally, surrounding yourself with supportive peers who share similar academic objectives can provide motivation and accountability.
You Are Dealing with Environmental Issues
Your study environment plays a role in your ability to focus and retain information. A conducive study environment should be quiet, comfortable, and free from distractions. Noise and interruptions can significantly hinder concentration, making it difficult to absorb and process information.
Creating a dedicated study space that is well-organized and equipped with all the necessary materials can help establish a productive study routine. Ensure your study area is comfortable, with adequate lighting and a good chair that supports proper posture. Reducing clutter and keeping your workspace tidy can also contribute to a more focused and efficient study session.
Conclusion
Studying is undeniably challenging, but understanding the factors that contribute to this difficulty can help you develop better strategies and overcome obstacles. By finding study methods that align with your learning preferences, boosting motivation, and creating a conducive study environment, you can make studying more effective and less daunting.
Remember that everyone's study journey is unique, and it's important to be patient with yourself as you experiment with different techniques. With persistence and the right approach, you can turn studying from a dreaded task into a manageable and even enjoyable part of your academic life.
Read our blog on how to study effectively to discover techniques for better learning.
References
[1] Persky AM, Alford EL, Kyle J. Not all hard work leads to learning. Am J Pharm Educ. 2013. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3687122/
[2] Lo KWK, Ngai G, Chan SCF, Kwan KP. How Students' Motivation and Learning Experience Affect Their Service-Learning Outcomes: A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis. Front Psychol. 2022 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9062174/
