Study Methods Compared: Which Technique Suits Your Study Style?

Posted on 11:54 PM by Lisa Ray

Every student has a different way of learning. Some people can sit for hours and focus deeply, while others need frequent breaks to stay sharp. With so many study techniques out there, it can feel confusing to know which one actually works best for you. In this blog, we’ll look at some of the most popular methods — like the Pomodoro Technique, Ultralearning, and a few others — to help you find the right match for your study style.

  1. Why Study Techniques Matter

Before jumping into different methods, let’s quickly talk about why your study approach is so important. Good study techniques help you:

  • Focus better
  • Save time
  • Remember information longer
  • Avoid burnout

When you study without a plan, you might spend hours reading without really learning. The right technique keeps your brain active and your motivation steady.

  1. The Pomodoro Technique – Great for Short Focus Sessions
The Pomodoro Technique is one of the most popular study methods among students who struggle to concentrate for long periods. It’s simple but powerful.

How it works:

  • Study for 25 minutes (this is called one “Pomodoro”)
  • Take a 5-minute break
  • After four Pomodoros, take a longer break (15–30 minutes)
Why it works: The idea is that your brain can only focus deeply for a short time before losing concentration. The regular breaks help prevent fatigue and give you something to look forward to.

Best for:

  • Students who get distracted easily
  • Those who procrastinate or find it hard to start studying
  • People who prefer structure and clear time limits

Quick tip:

Use a timer or mobile app to track your sessions. During breaks, avoid scrolling on your phone — get up, stretch, or grab water instead.
  1. Ultralearning – Perfect for Deep and Fast Learning
If you want to master a skill or subject quickly, Ultralearning might be your match. It’s a strategy that focuses on self-directed, intense learning. You take charge of what, when, and how you study.

How it works:

  • Set a clear learning goal (for example, “learn organic chemistry fundamentals in 6 weeks”)
  • Focus on deep understanding, not just memorization
  • Practice what you learn regularly (through quizzes, projects, or explanations)
  • Review and adjust your learning plan based on progress

Why it works:

Ultralearning pushes you to challenge yourself. You learn by doing, which builds stronger memory and real-world understanding. Best for:
  • Students preparing for exams or competitions
  • Those interested in fast-tracking their learning
  • Learners who are self-motivated and curious
Quick tip: Break your big goal into smaller daily tasks. Don’t just read — apply what you learn through writing, teaching, or practice tests.
  1. The Feynman Technique – Learn by Teaching
The Feynman Technique, named after the famous physicist Richard Feynman, is based on a simple idea: If you can’t explain something clearly, you don’t understand it well enough. How it works:
  1. Pick a topic you want to understand.
  2. Try to explain it in simple words, as if you were teaching a friend or a child.
  3. Identify any gaps or confusing parts.
  4. Go back to your notes, fill those gaps, and simplify again.
Why it works: Explaining helps you find weak spots in your understanding. It forces your brain to organize information clearly. Best for:
  • Students studying theory-heavy subjects
  • Anyone preparing for oral exams or interviews
Quick tip: You can use a notebook or talk out loud to yourself. Don’t worry about sounding silly — this process really helps!
  1. The Active Recall Method – Boost Your Memory
Many students reread their notes again and again, thinking it helps. But passive reading doesn’t make information stick. Active recall is a smarter approach. How it works:
  • Instead of rereading, close your notes and try to remember the key points.
  • Test yourself using flashcards, quizzes, or practice questions.
  • Review your mistakes and retry until you get it right.
Why it works: It strengthens memory by making your brain retrieve information actively. This makes you more confident during exams. Best for:
  • Subjects that need strong memory, like biology or history
  • Students preparing for tests or exams
Quick tip: Apps like Anki or Quizlet are great tools for active recall practice.
  1. The Mind Mapping Technique – For Visual Learners
Some students remember things better when they can see connections visually. Mind mapping helps you do exactly that. How it works:
  • Write your main topic in the center of a page.
  • Draw branches for related ideas or subtopics.
  • Use colors, arrows, and small drawings to show connections.
Why it works: Mind maps help you see the “big picture.” They’re especially useful for brainstorming essays or understanding complex topics. Best for:
  • Visual learners
  • Creative subjects like literature or history
Quick tip: Use paper for more freedom or try online tools like MindMeister or Canva for digital maps.
  1. The SQ3R Method – For Reading-Heavy Subjects
If you have to read long chapters or research papers, the SQ3R Method (Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review) can help you study smarter. How it works:
  1. Survey – Skim the text first to get an overview.
  2. Question – Write down questions about the headings or main ideas.
  3. Read – Read carefully to find answers.
  4. Recite – Summarize what you learned in your own words.
  5. Review – Go over everything later to refresh memory.
Why it works: This method helps you stay active while reading, so you don’t lose focus or forget quickly. Best for:
  • Students reading textbooks or research materials
  • Learners who want better comprehension
  1. How to Choose the Right Study Method for You
There’s no single “best” technique. The right one depends on your personality, goals, and subject. Here’s a quick way to decide:
If you... Try this method
Get bored easily Pomodoro Technique
Want to learn fast and deeply Ultralearning
Struggle to explain topics Feynman Technique
Need to memorize a lot Active Recall
Learn visually Mind Mapping
Read long chapters SQ3R Method
You can even combine techniques. For example, use Pomodoro for time management while practicing Active Recall during sessions. Experiment a bit to see what keeps you motivated and helps you remember the most.
  1. Final Thoughts
The way you study matters just as much as how much time you spend. Techniques like Pomodoro, Ultralearning, Feynman, Active Recall, and others are tools — not rules. Try them one at a time, track your progress, and see which one feels natural. And remember, consistency always beats intensity. Even short, focused study sessions each day can make a huge difference over time. If you ever feel stuck with assignments or need expert guidance to manage your workload, you can always visit getassignment.com.au — a reliable platform offering expert academic help to students in Australia.