How to Get Straight A's According to Science

Getting good grades is not about being a smart individual. It's about knowing how to study. Here's the science behind how to get straight A's in school.

How to get straight A's according to science:

🧠 1. Use Active Recall (Not Just Rereading)

What it is: Actively trying to remember information without looking at notes.

Why it works: It strengthens memory pathways.

How to do it:

• After reading a chapter, close the book and summarize key points.

• Use flashcards (like Anki or Quizlet) with spaced repetition.

• Teach the material to someone else (or pretend to).

⏱ 2. Use the Spacing Effect

What it is: Spread your studying over time instead of cramming.

Why it works: Your brain consolidates information better with gaps.

How to do it:

• Study a little each day for a week instead of 6 hours the night before.

• Revisit topics every few days.

📈 3. Interleave, Don’t Block

What it is: Mix subjects or types of problems instead of doing one at a time.

Why it works: It improves your ability to distinguish and apply concepts.

How to do it:

• Instead of doing 20 math problems of the same type, do 5 of each type at a time.

🧩 4. Practice Retrieval Under Pressure

What it is: Simulate exam conditions.

Why it works: Reduces test anxiety and improves performance under stress.

How to do it:

• Take practice tests in silence, timed, without notes.

🌙 5. Sleep More, Not Less

Why it works: Sleep consolidates memory and boosts focus.

How to do it:

• Aim for 7–9 hours/night.

• Avoid all-nighters – even one can ruin cognitive performance.

💪 6. Exercise Regularly

Why it works: Increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which helps with memory and learning.

How to do it:

• Just 20–30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise a few times a week can help.

🧘 7. Manage Stress and Emotions

Why it works: Chronic stress impairs memory and focus.

How to do it:

• Try mindfulness meditation, journaling, or cognitive behavioral strategies.

• Break big tasks into smaller, manageable parts to avoid overwhelm.

🗂 8. Use Effective Note-Taking Systems

Why it works: Organizing information helps encode it more deeply.

How to do it:

• Cornell Notes, mind maps, or outlines can all be effective.

• Review and reprocess notes within 24 hours.

📅 9. Plan with Intent (Not Just Hope)

Why it works: Planning helps avoid procrastination and last-minute cramming.

How to do it:

• Use a planner, calendar, or time-blocking method.

• Include review days and rest breaks.

🧭 10. Stay Motivated with Intrinsic Goals

Why it works: You're more likely to persist when the subject matters to you.

How to do it:

• Connect topics to your interests or future goals.

• Reflect on why you want straight A’s – not just for grades, but for growth.