What are common study mistakes students make?

The short answer

Common mistakes include passive review, no spacing, poor sleep, ignoring feedback, and cramming. Recognizing them lets you swap in evidence-based habits that actually raise grades.

Strategies that work

• Re-reading and highlighting without self-testing.
• Cramming the night before instead of distributed practice.
• Studying while distracted—phone, TV, or constant notifications.
• Not asking for help until just before exams.
• Neglecting health: sleep, hydration, and movement affect cognition.

Mistakes to avoid

• Copying peers’ methods without checking what works for you.
• Confusing familiarity with mastery after re-reading notes.
• Multitasking during online lectures and missing key ideas.

Put it into practice this week

• Pick one mistake from this list you recognize and choose a replacement habit.
• Track study method and score for two weeks to see what correlates.
• Share your plan with a tutor or study partner for accountability.