Study Less, Learn More

How do you study? According to surveys, the large majority of college students rely on reviewing material--going over it to reinforce it in memory. Unfortunately, extensive research shows that reviewing is among the least effective study strategies. The good news is that the same research clearly points to a much better way. Study Less, Learn More is based on a published research, not simply opinions of students, teachers, or experts. Readers learn how memory and attention work, and how to put these insights into practice for the most effective and efficient studying. The author provides evidence-based answers to such questions as what a study environment should look like, what students need to be doing in class and during their study sessions, as well as how long and how often students should be studying for maximum results. Because learning and academic performance are influenced by many factors, this book contains numerous strategies and tips. For example, there are chapters on boosting motivation and self-discipline as well as altering the reader’s beliefs about intelligence and learning. Special chapters on taming test anxiety, mastering mindfulness, getting good sleep, and the dangers of stereotype threat for women and ethnic minority students round out the psychological approach to helping the reader excel as a student. Finally, students have a book based on the psychology behind effective and efficient self-learning. Are you ready to change the way you study and learn?

Michael Wiederman is Director of Faculty Development a the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville. He teaches introductory psychology, as well as a variety of courses on personality, disorders, counseling, and sexuality. Dr. Wiederman has published more than 250 articles and book chapters, wrote the book Understanding Sexuality Research, and co-edited the Handbook for Conducting Research on Human Sexuality. He also is one of the handful of contributors answering reader questions at the popular site "Ask the Psychologist" (AskthePsych.com). He also can be found at his own site: MindingtheMind.com.