5 Science-Backed Study Techniques to Score High in Exams

Deepak Rajeev | Dec 21, 2025, 13:00 IST
Best Tricks to Retain Memory for Students (Image credit: AI)

Students can conquer exam fear with proven study methods. Active recall, the 2 7 30 method, and teaching concepts to others boost memory. Visual aids and writing by hand also enhance learning. Implementing these science-backed tricks will lead to better scores and less stress. Regular exercise, sleep, and healthy food are also recommended for success.

When exams come near a lot of the students go into panic mode. However, if we study well from the beginning onwards, we can always face exams with courage. The truth is there are some time-tested tricks that anyone can use to score high marks in their exams. Backed by science, lets explore these tricks. It could be guaranteed that your score will increase in the upcoming exam if you follow these steps diligently. Furthermore, you will gradually attain freedom from the pricking exam related stress.

1. Active Recall


Study by Understanding the Concepts Deeply
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Instead of reading the same pages again and again, we should close the book and try to recall what we just read. To do this we should understand the exact meaning of the concepts that are contained in the chapter. Once you start learning with deep understanding and interest, learning becomes much simpler and fun.


2. 2 7 30 Method



This research-backed method makes use of the fundamental principle of memory retention i.e., spaced repetition. It has been proved that if we don’t revisit something, we will begin to forget the details as time pass. 2 7 30 method works by forcing us to revisit what we have learnt within 2 days first, then within 7 days and finally within 30 days. When we repeatedly revisit what we studied within the above-mentioned time periods, it will naturally move into our long-term memory. Once the concept or idea has entered the long-term memory, it has a much higher chance of remaining in our brain forever.

3. Feynman Technique or Teach Others


Teaching is Learning Too
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This is one of the most powerful techniques for learning named after the great physicist Richard Feynman. When we talk about what we have learnt, the concepts become very clear and palpable in our mind. We use almost all our senses when we teach it to someone. Just the act of teaching in itself can make sure that your lessons go directly into the long-term memory. Even if you don’t have a student or a friend, its ok. Speak to yourself. Write the concept down on a board or paper. Imagine a student sitting in front of you. Eventually you will experience the manifestation of magic.

4. Visual Aids and Stories


Visual Aids are Very Effective for Active Learning
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Try to create some stories or pictures based on your syllabus. If you have to learn a concept in Physics, imagine a story around the same. Use colour pencils and be creative. Make learning a creative process. Additionally, you can also use mind mapping which is a visual diagram to arrange information around a central concept. Use branches, keywords, images and colours to draw your diagrams or mind maps.

5. Writing by Hand


Writing by Hand Multiplies Memory Retention
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Studies have proved that writing by hand multiplies memory retention and recall of words. When you are writing, you won’t be able to focus on other things. This will direct your focus entirely on learning, avoiding distractions nearby. Furthermore, researchers have also found that when we take notes by hand during a lecture, we achieve a better conceptual understanding of the material.

Along with these tips do regular exercise, sleep 7-8 hours and eat healthy food. In the upcoming exam you are going to achieve great marks, for sure. The only condition is implement these tricks in your life. Action habit is a must to achieve greatness.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  1. How can I focus 100% on studying?
    To focus 100%, eliminate all the distractions, use techniques like Pomodoro, sleep and exercise well, eat healthy and meditate.
  2. Is music good for studying?
    Yes, music helps studying by improving mood and focus and by reducing stress.
  3. Is memory genetic or learned?
    Memory is a complex mix of both genetics and learning. Even though genes influence our brain's structure and potential for memory, life experiences build and shape specific memories.
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