Ineffective Study Habits: Bad Practices Students Need to Avoid

Ineffective study habits are ways of studying that don’t help you actually understand or remember what you’re learning, like cramming the night before, getting easily distracted, or just reading notes without really thinking about them. You can fix bad study habits by spotting the mistakes you’re making, taking regular breaks, setting goals, and freeing yourself from distractions.

Are your exams too difficult, or are you just bad at studying? 

Let’s be more specific. Is your professor actually out to get you, or did you convince yourself that cramming months of material in one night was a solid plan?

We’ve all been there. I still cringe thinking about those late-night cram sessions, fueled by stress, energy drinks, and regret — letting all those assignments pile up until the last minute. 

So, why do we keep doing this? 

Maybe it’s fear of messing up, feeling overwhelmed, or simply not enjoying the work. The good news? There are proven strategies to help you survive (and even thrive) as a student. 

But first, you need to figure out what you’re doing wrong. 

This guide will show you: 

• The worst study strategies for students to avoid. 
• How to improve and build good study habits.
• Types of positive study habits to make a real difference. 

10 Bad Study Habits to Avoid

Here’s a list of ineffective study habits that all students should avoid: 

• Being disorganized without a study plan.
• Wasting time by over-planning.
• Keeping your phone within reach.
• Having too many distractions in the room.
• Cramming in long study sessions with no breaks.
• Relying on memory to study.
• Finding ways to procrastinate.
• Studying late at night and sacrificing sleep.
• Eating unhealthy food.
• Leaving studying until the last minute. 

Scrolling through Reddit or sneaking in irrelevant YouTube videos during study time might seem harmless, but little habits like these can seriously mess with your grades. A survey from ResearchGate with over 200 college students found that those who listened to music, skipped class, watched TV, or browsed the Internet while studying had lower exam scores. 

So, before pointing fingers at how tough the material is, let’s take a closer look at what habits are holding you back. 

1. Being disorganized without a study plan

You tell yourself you’ll study for three hours tomorrow morning. Then a friend invites you for coffee, so you push it to the afternoon. Then that new Netflix show drops, so you bump it to the evening. 

Next thing you know, it’s 1 a.m., and it’s tomorrow’s problem. 

A solid plan keeps you on track, helps you manage your time, and turns studying into actual learning, not just last-minute cramming. An hour-by-hour schedule might work for some, but an adaptable plan might work better for others, considering how unpredictable life can be. Focus on the essentials, spot your weak areas, and overcome them. 

2. Wasting time by over-planning 

There’s a fine line between planning and over-planning. 

Do you really need to color-code every folder, add doodles, and pick the perfect fonts for your notes? Sure, you’re not binge-watching The Office, but let’s be real — that’s not actual productivity.

Spending too much time creating the “perfect” study system only delays the real work. 

Over-planning masks avoidance. Fear of messing up or tackling something hard can hide behind all that “essential prep.” But every time you over-plan and don’t follow through, you’re teaching yourself it’s fine to delay. 

Keep it simple: make a straightforward and effective plan, then dive in. Planning should help you focus, not become an excuse to dodge actual study time. 

3. Keeping your phone within reach

It’s way too easy to interrupt studying for a “quick scroll” through Instagram or to check a notification. And even if you don’t end up doom-scrolling, those “harmless” interruptions can break your focus, making it harder to stay on task and absorb the material.

Research from ScienceDirect shows that frequent phone use while studying can hurt academic performance, learning, and cognitive abilities for success. Social media is a particular culprit among young people, with heavy users reporting they’re more distracted than their less-scrolling peers (Taylor & Francis Online).

What worked for me? Putting my phone in another room to create a distraction-free zone (it’s been a game-changer). And if you need to stay reachable, connect your messages or WhatsApp Web to your laptop — that way, you can stay in touch without having access to all your other phone apps. 

4. Having too many distractions in the room

When you’re knee-deep in modern philosophy or untangling chemical reactions, any distraction might feel like a welcome mental break. But those constant interruptions eventually make you reread the same lines, skim over tricky sections, or replay the time your stomach growled too loudly during that exam.

External distractions, like conversations, phone alerts, or music with lyrics, constantly pull your attention away from your work. Internal distractions, like hunger, anxiety, or daydreaming, can be just as derailing. Even study groups can go sideways when study time turns into a gossip session.

Identify your distractions and tackle them head-on. Silence notifications, declutter your workspace, and take care of internal needs like eating or relaxing beforehand. A distraction-free zone is different for everyone, but a calm space generally leads to a clear mind. 

5. Cramming in long study sessions with no breaks 

Cramming for hours without breaks might make you feel productive, but it’s a fast track to burnout. Your brain is like a muscle — it can only take so much at once before it hits a wall. Overloading it in one sitting leads to mental fatigue and poor retention.

The Forgetting Curve shows we naturally lose information over time unless we revisit it. In fact, the theory claims that learners will forget 90% of what they’ve learned in just a month. So, while cramming might get you through tomorrow’s quiz — good luck with that end-of-year exam. 

That’s where the Spacing Effect comes in — breaking study sessions into smaller chunks over time strengthens long-term memory. Aim for more focused sessions with regular breaks over a longer period to retain more information and feel less burnt out (your future self will thank you). 

Need a little boost during your study break? Look no further: Motivational Quotes & Tips to Stay Energized

6. Relying on memory to study

Memorizing facts and dates was my thing in school (hello, history major). 

My grades were solid, but it didn’t always pay off. Relying on memory is great for specific facts, but not so much for deeper understanding or applying unique perspectives. 

Passive methods like rereading or highlighting might feel productive, but it doesn’t engage your brain enough to make information stick. You’re absorbing facts without truly processing them, which makes them harder to recall later. 

True learning happens when you engage with the material. Studies from ScienceDirect also show that students who combine memory skills with study aids, note-taking, test strategies, processing information, and identifying the main ideas perform better academically. So while memorizing has its benefits, it doesn’t hurt to mix up your learning methods. 

7. Finding ways to procrastinate

We’re all guilty of saying “I’ll do it later” — and we’ve all suffered the consequences. A study from the JAMA network of over 3,000 university students found that procrastination is linked to more stress, anxiety, and even depression. And it doesn’t stop at mental health; putting things off is also tied to poor sleep, low energy, and unhealthy habits. 

And the student environment doesn’t help. Feeling tired or overwhelmed makes it easier to get distracted — scrolling social media, reorganizing your desk, or convincing yourself you’ll be “more focused tomorrow.” But as we know, delaying tasks often makes them feel harder and dials up the pressure.

Breaking this cycle starts with recognizing it. Remove distractions and tackle small tasks first to build momentum, with realistic goals for each study session. You can even reward yourself for the small wins with a tasty snack or a short walk outside. 

8. Studying late at night and sacrificing sleep

I’m not myself without enough sleep. I’m crankier, more emotional, and slower. Imagine doing an exam after a twelve-hour flight and a three-hour layover. That’s basically what pulling an all-nighter feels like for your brain.

Sleep is when your brain processes and organizes information. Without enough rest, your cognitive abilities, focus, and decision-making take a serious hit. Studies on student lifestyle habits show that those who sacrifice sleep often struggle with attention in class, make careless mistakes, feel unprepared for exams, and suffer from constant exhaustion.

Instead of burning the midnight oil, prioritize consistent, quality sleep. Study earlier in the day, and if you’re short on time, focus on reviewing key concepts. A rested brain is sharper, faster, and better equipped to handle those dreaded algebra notes. 

9. Eating unhealthy food

Feeling low-energy? Could it be related to the half-eaten burger, the fully eaten chocolate bar, and the total lack of water? I’ll admit, I simply can’t say no to a slice (or two) of pizza. But all cheesy goodness doesn’t exactly power me through a busy day.

Your brain needs the right fuel to work at its best, and junk food, like fast food or sugary snacks, just doesn’t cut it. These foods can leave you feeling sluggish, distracted, or craving more (cue the unnecessary snack breaks).

Research on nutrition and academic learning shows that a nutritious diet positively impacts thinking skills, behavior, and academic performance. For example, eating breakfast is linked to higher GPAs, while fast food has the opposite effect. 

So, swap out chips for nuts, grab fruit instead of candy, and don’t skip meals — especially breakfast. 

10. Leaving studying until the last minute

Why do we do this to ourselves? 

We put tasks off until the last minute, only to be rewarded with stress, exhaustion, and a good dose of regret. And shocker — it’s never as bad as we thought, so we’re left wondering why we didn’t get it done weeks ago. 

When you cram everything the night before, the information stays in your short-term memory, which makes it harder to recall later. Add sleep deprivation to the mix, and your brain doesn’t get the time it needs to process and store what you’ve learned.

My advice: just show up. 

It’s like doing a workout — it’s easier not to think about sweating at the gym, just show up and the rest will follow. The same with a study session — just open that book and take it from there. It’s rarely as difficult as you imagine, and you’ll feel great once you’ve ticked off that box.

Got more than studies on your mind? Here are a few helpful guides: 

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• How to Make Money Working From Home
• What to Do If You Hate Your Job
• Understanding the Gen-Z Work Ethic 
• How will the 2024 US Election Affect the Job Market?

Why Is It Important to Have Healthy Study Habits?

Healthy study habits go beyond school. They’re life skills that teach you discipline, time management, and self-care — all of which you’ll need in the “real world.”

I used to see studying as a way to cram as much information as possible, do the exam, and then promptly forget most of it (seriously, don’t ask me to do math). I got decent grades, but the stress was real, and I wasn’t holding onto anything long-term.

Getting through those years of education is already rocky — don’t add to that with last-minute panicking, sleepless nights, and a caffeine addiction. Healthy habits include taking regular breaks, staying hydrated, finding the right study methods, and getting enough sleep — boosting your focus and productivity.

How to Improve Study Habits

Follow these steps to improve your study habits:

• Identify your studying mistakes.
• Create a reward system to make studying more enjoyable.
• Find the right study technique that works for you.
• Reflect on how your studies align with your goals.

Changing habits overnight isn’t easy, but building solid foundations makes it way more doable. Start by reflecting: What tripped you up before? What topics do you actually enjoy? Which techniques fit how you learn best?

Here are some essential questions to ask yourself before deciding which study habits work best for you and your learning style. 

What are your past studying mistakes? 

Mistakes happen — that’s life. What matters is how you use them as stepping stones to do better next time. Take a moment to write down the mistakes you’ve made while studying. Did you pull too many all-nighters? Get lost on TikTok the night before an exam? 

Once you’ve identified your mistakes, think about how to approach things differently in the future. For each one, jot down a better way to handle it. 

Always running out of time for assignments? Break them into smaller steps and set earlier deadlines. Can’t focus because of distractions? Set up a workspace that keeps interruptions at a distance. 

How can you enjoy studying?

I know, actually enjoying studying sounds like a stretch. But there are ways to trick your mind by associating study time with other things that make you happy or relaxed. The secret is making it engaging and personal to you. 

If you have the choice, select courses that genuinely spark your curiosity. And yes, sometimes you can’t avoid the more “practical” subjects — but throwing in some interesting ones can make learning more engaging. When you’re motivated to learn because you care about the material, you’re more likely to enjoy the process. 

Listening to the right music also works wonders. I swear by classical tunes, movie soundtracks, LoFi beats, or my personal favorite, the Brain Food playlist on Spotify (thank me later). Everyone’s different, so experiment to see what clicks for you. 

Here are more ways to make studying feel less like a chore: 

• Listen to music that helps you focus. 
• Take short breaks to clear your mind. 
• Have healthy snacks and drinks on standby. 
• Create a comfortable and relaxing environment.
• Make learning a game with challenges and rewards.
• Use flashcards and quizzes to mix up your study methods. 

What’s the right study technique for you?

Everyone learns differently, so it’s worth experimenting to see what keeps you engaged and helps the material stick. 

There are plenty of methods to try, and you can mix and match them to suit your style.

Start by engaging actively with what you’re studying. Don’t just read and reread — that’s too passive. Take notes, rephrase concepts in your own words, or teach the material to someone else (even if that “someone” is your dog). Teaching is a great test of your understanding — if you can’t explain it clearly, review it more.

Here are some more popular study methods: 

• The Pomodoro Technique. Work in 25-minute focused intervals called “pomodoros,” followed by 5-minute breaks. After four pomodoros, take a longer 15–30 minute break to maintain focus and prevent burnout.
• The Feynman Technique. Learn by teaching in four steps: pick a concept, explain it simply, identify gaps in understanding, and review the material to clarify. 
• The Leitner System. Use spaced repetition with flashcards. Cards start in Box 1 (reviewed daily) and move to higher boxes if correct, reducing review frequency. Incorrect answers return to Box 1 for more focus on challenging material.
• SQ3R method. Follow these five steps: Survey the text, form questions, read for answers, recite key points aloud, and review the material later to reinforce retention.
• The PQ4R Method. Use six steps: preview, question, read, reflect, recite, and review. This is an extension of the SQ3R method, which helps to boost memory and comprehension. 

Be flexible. If a method isn’t working, switch it up. Your priorities and the material you’re studying can change, so staying adaptable will help you build a routine that evolves with you.

What are your goals?

Focusing on the end result is a big motivator — just don’t let the big picture overwhelm you. Break things down into smaller, more manageable goals, and suddenly that giant task doesn’t seem so scary. 

While focusing on smaller goals, you can also celebrate your wins along the way. Did you finish a chapter or complete a tough assignment? Treat yourself to something fun, like a coffee date or a cozy movie night. These little incentives keep you motivated and remind you that progress is progress, no matter how small.

Some days won’t go as planned, and that’s fine. You might feel stuck, staring at the same notes for what feels like forever. But showing up and doing something still moves you closer to your goal. Even if it’s one small task, you’re still moving in the right direction. 

Find out more about setting realistic targets: How to Write SMART Goals? 

Best Study Habits for Students

These are the best study habits for students:

• Make a plan and study in intervals.
• Stay away from distractions while studying. 
• Write questions and quiz yourself.
• Don’t neglect your health and well-being.
• Find an accountability partner.

In the words of Teddy Roosevelt, “complaining about a problem without posing a solution is called whining.” 

Identifying your poor study habits is just the first step — if you really want to make a difference to your grades (and stress levels), it’s time to take action. 

Make a plan and study in intervals 

Making a study plan isn’t about color-coding all your notes or buying flashy new planners. It’s a tool to help you meet your goals and focus on the essentials — not an excuse to procrastinate. 

What you can do:

• Create a study schedule. Use a planner or digital calendar to block out dedicated study times. Keep it consistent, such as studying at the same time each day, to build a routine. Break big tasks, like a research paper or a huge reading assignment, into smaller goals and set deadlines for each.
• Use intervals to stay focused. Try the Pomodoro Technique, which involves studying for 25 minutes, followed by a 5-minute break. Just stay flexible and adjust the timing based on what feels right for you.
• Make breaks intentional. Don’t let breaks become an internet binge. Instead, stretch, grab a snack, or handle quick tasks like responding to texts or emails. Keep “fun time” separate from after you’re done studying.

Stay away from distractions while studying

Social media, noisy environments, or those loud eaters, can make studying feel like a battle. The more you minimize interruptions, the more efficient your study sessions become. Reducing distractions also lowers stress and makes it easier to get into a productive flow.

What you can do:

• Create a distraction-free zone. Find a quiet, dedicated space for studying that’s free from unnecessary noise and movement. Avoid studying in your bed or bedroom if possible — keep those areas for relaxation to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Set up your tools and boundaries. Put your phone out of sight or on “Do Not Disturb.” Use website blockers like Freedom or Cold Turkey to stop yourself from scrolling. You can even create a separate account on your laptop without any distracting apps and prepare your playlists or bookmarks beforehand.
• Have a plan for when distractions strike. If your mind wanders, take a quick, purposeful break to stretch, walk, or grab water. Avoid rewarding distractions like YouTube or games — they can turn a quick break into two hours of true crime videos. 

Write questions and quiz yourself

Time to embrace your inner teacher. Re-testing yourself when learning can boost retention and knowledge, compared to simply rereading your notes. It forces your brain to work harder, solidifying the material and helping you spot areas you need to review. 

What you can do:

• Turn your notes into questions. While reviewing lectures or reading notes, don’t just passively read — write potential test questions. Think about what you’d ask if you were the teacher. Later, cover the answers and quiz yourself, focusing on areas where you struggle.
• Teach it to yourself (or others). Record yourself explaining a concept as if you’re teaching someone else. Yes, it’ll be awkward — but hearing your own explanations helps you identify gaps in your understanding and reinforces what you’ve learned.
• Use flashcards for quick quizzes. Write a question on one side and the answer on the other. Apps like Quizlet or old-school index cards work just as well. Regularly shuffle through these, focusing more on the ones you find trickiest.

Don’t neglect your health and well-being

Your body and mind are your most important tools for learning. When you don’t take care of them, your focus, energy, and motivation take a nosedive. Getting enough sleep, eating right, exercising, and managing stress are all linked to better academic performance and overall happiness.

What you can do:

• Create a healthy sleep routine. Sleep helps your brain process and organize everything you’ve learned. Aim for 7–8 hours a night, and create a bedtime environment that helps you wind down, such as low lights or no screens for 30 minutes before bed.
• Fuel your brain and body. Keep healthy snacks like nuts, fruit, or yogurt on hand while you study, and don’t forget to stay hydrated. If you’re craving caffeine, go for tea with honey instead of that triple-shot espresso. 
• Take movement or mental reset breaks. Short bursts of physical activity, like a quick walk around campus or even a mini dance party in your bedroom, can boost your energy and mood. Low on energy? A quick break to grab a snack, do some deep breathing or get a dose of sunlight can also work wonders. 

Find an accountability partner

A good study partner is like a gym buddy but for your brain, helping you stay motivated, focused, and on track. Working with someone else can keep you accountable for your goals, push you to stick to your schedule, and deepen your understanding through shared ideas. 

What you can do:

• Find the right person or group. Look for a group or classmate who’s reliable and serious about studying, not someone who’ll turn the session into a social hour. Set clear goals for each session to avoid getting sidetracked.
• Set up regular check-ins. Schedule consistent times to study together, review each other’s progress, or even quiz each other. Start by tackling the material independently, then regroup to clarify tough concepts or compare notes.
• Hold each other accountable. Agree on what you want to achieve during your study sessions, and check in to make sure everyone sticks to the plan. You can even reward yourselves after hitting milestones with your favorite takeout or a much-needed power nap. 

Summary 

Here’s a quick overview of how to level up your study sessions: 

• Set clear goals for each session, like finishing a chapter or mastering a concept. Avoid vague plans like “study everything,” which can leave you overwhelmed.
• Focus on shorter sessions rather than endless hours of ineffective studying. Don’t rely solely on passive activities like rereading — aim for deeper understanding and application.
• Avoid marathon sessions without breaks — they lead to fatigue and decreased productivity. Just make sure you don’t use those short intervals to fall down the TikTok rabbit hole. 
• Keep your study space clutter-free and comfortable. Minimize distractions by turning off notifications, using website blockers, and avoiding studying near a TV. 
• Use active learning methods like teaching the material, making flashcards, or taking practice tests. Avoid passive habits like only highlighting or rereading, which don’t actively engage your brain.
• Stick to spaced repetition by revisiting material over time. Don’t cram everything the night before a test — it’s less effective for long-term retention.
• Eat nutritious meals, hydrate, and aim for 7–8 hours of sleep. Avoid overloading on caffeine or skipping meals, as it will affect your focus and energy.
• If something isn’t working, try new techniques, like switching from rereading to teaching. Don’t stubbornly stick to ineffective strategies just because they’re familiar.
• Celebrate small achievements and remind yourself why you’re studying. Avoid harsh self-criticism — it’s demotivating and won’t help you stay focused on improvement.

FAQ

Is studying too much bad?

Yes, overdoing it when studying can backfire. Your brain needs breaks to process and retain information. Cramming for hours without rest leads to burnout, stress, and poor retention. Try shorter, focused sessions with regular breaks, which is more sustainable in the long run. It’s not about how long you study, but how effectively you use that time. 

What to do when you don’t want to study?

Start small by committing to just ten minutes. Showing up is often the hardest part, so if you set a small target, like reading two pages or writing five flashcards, the rest should follow. If that doesn’t work, switch up your environment, add a fun element (like some relaxing music), or pair studying with a reward. And remember, it’s okay to rest when you need it — sometimes, a short break can help you refocus.

Is it bad to study right before a test?

Reviewing key points or testing yourself briefly is fine, but cramming new material right before an exam can leave you stressed and sleep-deprived. Sleep is essential for memory, so prioritize rest over last-minute study marathons. For the future, it’s better to study over an extended period using different methods to remember the information long-term, then review the essential points before a test if necessary. 

How to study on your own?

Start with a plan and identify which study method works best for you. Break tasks into manageable chunks and set clear goals for each session. Stay active in your learning — take notes, quiz yourself, or teach what you’re learning to an imaginary audience. Minimize distractions by creating a dedicated study space and staying consistent with your routine.

What to eat while studying at night?

Go for brain-friendly snacks like nuts, fruits (like berries or bananas), or whole-grain crackers with peanut butter. Dark chocolate is also a tasty sweet option for a little energy boost. Stay hydrated with water or herbal tea instead of sugary drinks to keep your focus sharp. Avoid heavy, greasy meals — they’ll just make you sleepy. 

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