Home
Podcast
Unlock "Super Studying" Techniques
Here's social proof as to how my studying habits leveled-up my game. I was able to
  • Maximize my studying potential that allowed me to maintain a 4.0 GPA throughout my Masters degree
  • Make the Dean's list
  • Make the President's list
  • Thrive in my 9-5 job
  • Start my UGC side business
  • Work steadily on Inspiretobeu
  • Manage my friendships and still having fun (crazy, I know).
This lifestyle might not be for everyone, and that’s perfectly okay—it was my journey! So, what was the Golden Key to managing it all?
🔑Effective studying.
Effective study habits are the key to unlocking a world of limitless possibilities. Mastering the art of studying doesn’t just save time—it transforms the way you approach learning and achievement. Imagine effortlessly retaining information, confidently acing exams, and standing out as a leader in your field.
This is the power of effective study strategies. By applying the science of knowledge retention and adopting the habits of successful learners, you can elevate your performance to extraordinary levels.
Gone are the days of endless struggle to grasp concepts. With the right techniques, you’ll study smarter—not harder—and see meaningful results for the time and effort you invest.
Discover the secrets to unlocking your full potential and watch your academic and professional goals soar. Below, you’ll find some of the most impactful tips to solidify your study habits—no empty promises, just proven methods that actually work!
The Power of Handwriting

1

In our digital age…
Handwriting engages the brain uniquely, activating memory, language, and problem-solving areas.

2

Academic Benefits…
Writing notes by hand boosts information retention and leads to deeper understanding.

3

Well-being Impact…
Handwriting has a calming effect, reduces stress, and fosters creativity and self-confidence.

4

Unlocking Potential…
Embracing handwriting enhances learning, boosts cognitive abilities, and fosters a deeper connection with oneself and the world.
Enhance Retention
Studies show that writing notes by hand helps the brain better encode and retain information compared to typing or reading alone.
Boost Comprehension
The physical act of writing engages the brain in deeper processing, leading to greater understanding and insight.
Stimulate Creativity
Handwriting unleashes your brain's creative potential, allowing for more personalized and imaginative note-taking.
The Big Question?
Why does this matter to you…
Why does any of this matter to you?
Handwriting as a method for processing and retaining information is a game-changer, and its advantages over alternatives like typing or voice recording are rooted in how deeply it engages the brain. When you write by hand, you're not just recording words—you're activating multiple regions of the brain, including those associated with motor skills, memory, and comprehension. Let’s break this down and explore why handwriting is so effective and why it outperforms its modern alternatives.

Why Handwriting Works Better

Enhanced Memory Retention Handwriting demands more cognitive effort than typing, engaging the brain fully as you form each letter. This deep processing strengthens neural connections, making it easier to recall and understand information later. Unlike typing, handwriting encourages meaningful engagement, not just mindless transcription. Deeper Understanding Writing by hand naturally organizes and filters information, pushing you to engage with the "why" and "how" rather than just the "what." Typing, on the other hand, often skips this deeper processing. Boosted Creativity The tactile act of handwriting encourages creative thinking by giving your mind space to connect ideas. Unlike typing’s mechanical pace, handwriting taps into the brain’s creative right hemisphere. Stronger Neural Pathways Handwriting engages the brain’s motor and sensorimotor areas, reinforcing learning-related pathways. This "brain workout" builds cognitive strength in a way typing cannot match.

"Handwriting engages your brain on a deeper level, turning information into lasting knowledge." -VJ Lopez

Recording audio and typing is cool, but…

Why is Typing Inferior to Writing? Typing is often faster and more convenient, but these benefits come at a cognitive cost: Surface-Level Engagement: Typing encourages mindless transcription rather than meaningful engagement with the material. Less Memory Retention: The speed of typing allows for verbatim notes, which don't require much mental processing. As a result, the brain doesn’t fully encode the information. Minimal Motor Involvement: While typing involves finger movements, it doesn’t engage the brain’s motor regions in the same way that handwriting does. This lack of physical engagement reduces the strength of the memory traces formed. Why is Voice Recording Inferior to Writing? Voice recording has its place, but it falls short in terms of active learning: Passive Engagement: Recording is a passive activity. You’re not actively processing or organizing the information as you would with handwriting. Difficulty in Review: Listening back to recordings is time-consuming and less efficient for reviewing key points. Handwritten notes, by contrast, are easier to skim and revisit. Weaker Encoding: Speaking into a recorder doesn’t engage the brain’s motor areas or require the same level of cognitive effort as handwriting, leading to weaker memory retention.

The Science of Retention: Maximizing Knowledge Absorption

1

Encoding
(e.g. Active Note-Taking)
The initial process of converting new information into a format your brain can store. Active engagement, like taking notes or summarizing, is crucial for encoding.

2

Storage
(e.g. Spaced Repetition)
The process of keeping information in your brain over time. Effective storage depends on repetition, organization, and association.

3

Retrieval
(e.g. Free Recall)
The ability to access stored information when you need it. Regularly practicing retrieval through quizzes or self-testing strengthens memory and recall - this is also known as "Active Retrieval"
5 Proven Habits of Highly Effective Learners

1

Active Learning
Engaging with information through activities like summarizing, teaching, or creating flashcards reinforces understanding.

2

Spaced Repetition/Practice
Revisiting material at spaced intervals (days, weeks, or months) improves long-term retention and prevents forgetting. Your memory will transform from working memory to long-term memory.

3

Sleep
This is the Golden Ticket. Getting adequate sleep consolidates memories and allows your brain to process information effectively. Don't "sleep" on this lol

4

Mindfulness
Focusing on the present moment, reducing distractions, and practicing mindfulness techniques enhance concentration and reduce stress.

5

Nutrition
Interesting, I know.
A balanced diet rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins fuels the brain, promotes healthy brain function, and enhances memory and cognitive performance.
You'll Need These.
Study Smarter, Not Harder!
Get The Most Out Of Your Study Sessions 🎓
Here are some of the techniques you'll learn…
Interleaving Practice
Mixing up practice topics boosts learning and transfer between contexts.
The Feynman Technique
Explain concepts simply, visualize info, and reflect on learning to boost understanding.
The Pomodoro Technique
Take breaks, quiz yourself, and explain concepts to boost learning.
Spaced Repetition
Spaced repetition boosts long-term retention.
Active Recall
Self-testing boosts learning.
Mind Mapping
Mind maps organize information visually, boosting understanding.
Download Our FREE Custom ITBU Study Guides To Help You Navigate Your Learning!

Resources Availableâť—
Effective Studying Habits Guide

Effective Studying Habits Guide

Effective Studying Habits Guide

Want to ditch the textbook struggle and crush your exams? Master these 5 powerful techniques: Mix topics, teach yourself (Feynman Technique), focus & recharge (Pomodoro Technique), space out learning (Spaced Repetition), and test yourself (Active Recall). Get the full guide for in-depth strategies & activities!

Conquer Your Studies: 5 Powerhouse Techniques!
Ditch the textbook struggle! Master these 5 strategies to learn faster, remember more, and crush any exams!
  • Mix It Up: Interleave topics for deeper understanding.
  • Teach Yourself: Use the Feynman Technique to identify knowledge gaps.
  • Focus & Recharge: Master the Pomodoro Technique for laser focus with breaks.
  • Space It Out: Spaced Repetition optimizes long-term memory.
  • Test Yourself: Active Recall strengthens memory & recall. Get the full guide for in-depth strategies & activities!
Your Guide to Powerful Study Techniques

Your Guide to Powerful Studying Techniques

Your Guide to Powerful Studying Techniques

Feeling stuck in study mode? This guide goes beyond basic highlighting with powerful tools to improve your studying output by maximizing your input.

Break the Study Barrier: Master Advanced Techniques! Feeling stuck in study mode? This guide goes beyond basic highlighting with powerful tools to:
  • Mind Map complex topics for clear understanding.
  • Mix Up learning with Interleaved Practice.
  • Master Flashcards using the Leitner System.
  • Deepen Knowledge with Elaborative Interrogation.
Inside you'll find:
Clear explanations of each technique. Step-by-step activities to put them into action. Reflection prompts to track your progress. Combine these techniques with others on our website to become a study pro!
Unlock Your Brain Power: The Dual Coding & Self-Explanation Study Guide

Unlock Your Brain Power

Unlock Your Brain Power The Dual Coding & Self-Explanation Study Guide

Level Up Your Studying: Dual Coding & Self-Explanation This guide unlocks powerful techniques to learn faster, remember more, and ace your exams! Dual Coding: Combine visuals & text for clearer understanding and stronger memory. Self-Explanation: Explain concepts in your own words to solidify knowledge and identify areas for improvement. Perfect for: All learners & anyone who wants to study smarter, not harder! Inside you'll find: Step-by-step activities to master these techniques Reflection prompts to track your progress Combine this guide with others on our website to become a study pro! Remember: Consistent effort is key. Let's unlock your learning potential!

Dual Coding: Combine visuals & text for clearer understanding and stronger memory. Self-Explanation: Explain concepts in your own words to solidify knowledge and identify areas for improvement.
Perfect for all learners & anyone who wants to study smarter, not harder!
Inside you'll find:
Step-by-step activities to master these techniques, reflection prompts to track your progress. Combine this guide with others on our website to become a study pro!
Remember: Consistent effort is key. I can provide the tools and resources, but I can't learn for you.
The 6 Levels of Studying
Feeling overwhelmed by textbooks and lectures? Struggling to retain information for exams? This video is packed with powerful strategies to help you transform the way you learn and study!
Justin Sung unveils secret memorization techniques to unlock your brain's full potential and ditch the cramming for good. Discover effective spaced repetition methods for long-term knowledge retention. Learn how to create a study space that optimizes focus and minimizes distractions.
Move beyond passive reading with active learning strategies that boost comprehension. Finally, become a test-taking pro with techniques for approaching exams with confidence and answering questions strategically.
Stop struggling and start excelling!
These powerful tips will equip you to learn effectively, retain information, and achieve academic success!
In Summary, Here Are The 6 Levels…

1

Remember
The most fundamental level of studying involves focusing on memorizing and recalling information. This foundational approach lays the groundwork for deeper understanding and application of knowledge.
At this basic level, the goal is to commit facts, definitions, and key concepts to memory through repetition and active recall. By mastering the ability to accurately retrieve and articulate information, you establish a solid foundation upon which to build more advanced learning skills.
While rote memorization may seem simplistic, it serves as a crucial starting point. Developing a strong command of the fundamental building blocks empowers you to progress to higher-order thinking and problem-solving abilities. Effective studying at this level sets the stage for unlocking your full potential in your academic and professional pursuits.

2

Understand
Comprehending the meaning and concepts behind the material is a crucial step in effective studying. This level of learning moves beyond simply memorizing facts and definitions, and instead focuses on deeply understanding the underlying principles and ideas.
When you can grasp the true significance and interconnections within the subject matter, you unlock a deeper level of mastery. Rather than relying on rote memorization, you develop the ability to apply your knowledge to novel situations, solve complex problems, and engage in higher-order critical thinking.
Achieving this level of comprehension requires active engagement with the material, such as analyzing key concepts, synthesizing information from multiple sources, and drawing insightful connections. By investing the time and effort to truly understand the "why" behind the "what," you lay a solid foundation for long-term retention and the ability to effectively apply your knowledge.

3

Apply
Applying your knowledge to solve problems and complete tasks is the ultimate goal of effective studying. This level of learning goes beyond simply understanding concepts - it involves the ability to actively use your knowledge to achieve tangible outcomes.
When you can take the information you've learned and apply it to real-world scenarios, you demonstrate a true mastery of the subject matter. This could involve using your knowledge to troubleshoot issues, design solutions, or accomplish specific objectives.
Reaching this level of application requires not just comprehension, but also the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. By actively engaging with the material and practicing its use, you build the confidence and competence to leverage your knowledge in meaningful ways.
Ultimately, the ability to apply your knowledge is what separates mere understanding from true expertise. By consistently practicing the application of your studies, you'll be able to tackle increasingly complex challenges and achieve your personal and professional goals with greater efficiency and effectiveness.

4

Analyze
Breaking down information to examine relationships and patterns is a crucial step in deepening your understanding of a subject. This process of analysis involves carefully dissecting the material, identifying key components, and exploring how they interconnect.
By taking the time to break down the information, you can uncover hidden insights and discover new ways of interpreting the content. This level of examination allows you to move beyond simply memorizing facts and figures, and instead develop a more comprehensive and nuanced comprehension of the subject matter.
Through this analytical approach, you'll be able to identify underlying principles, recognize recurring themes, and draw meaningful connections between different concepts. This holistic understanding will not only enhance your ability to retain the information, but also enable you to apply your knowledge more effectively in real-world situations.
Engaging in this level of analysis requires active engagement with the material, as well as the cultivation of critical thinking skills. By consistently breaking down information and exploring its various components, you'll gradually refine your analytical abilities and become better equipped to tackle complex problems and challenges.

5

Evaluate
Evaluating the quality and usefulness of the studied material is a critical step in the learning process. This involves carefully assessing the value, accuracy, and effectiveness of the information you've been exposed to.
By taking the time to scrutinize the content, you can develop a more discerning and critical understanding of the subject matter. This allows you to identify any gaps, inconsistencies, or areas that may require further exploration or clarification.
Engaging in this evaluative process also helps you to determine the relevance and applicability of the information to your specific goals and needs. This ensures that you're investing your time and effort into learning content that will truly benefit you in the long run.
Ultimately, this level of assessment demonstrates a deeper level of engagement with the material, and a commitment to ensuring that your learning is both meaningful and impactful. By consistently evaluating the quality and effectiveness of the information you study, you'll be better equipped to make informed decisions and apply your knowledge in meaningful ways.

6

Create
The highest level of learning and understanding involves the ability to use your knowledge to generate new ideas, solutions, or products. This level of cognitive engagement demonstrates a deep mastery of the subject matter, as you're able to move beyond simply recalling information and instead leverage your understanding to create something novel and innovative.
At this stage, you're not merely applying pre-existing knowledge, but rather synthesizing and combining different concepts and principles in unique ways. This level of synthesis requires a high degree of critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, as you navigate uncharted territory and push the boundaries of what is known.
Reaching this pinnacle of learning can be incredibly rewarding, as it allows you to make meaningful contributions to your field of study or personal endeavors. By generating new ideas, solutions, or products, you're not only demonstrating your expertise, but also actively shaping the direction of your discipline or your own personal growth.
Ultimately, this highest level of learning represents the culmination of a comprehensive and deeply engaged educational journey. It's a testament to your ability to not only acquire and retain knowledge, but to also leverage that understanding in innovative and impactful ways. Embracing this level of cognitive engagement can be transformative, opening up new avenues for personal and professional development.