10 Study Habits from Top Students (and How You Can Copy Them)

Ever wondered why some students always seem to ace exams without pulling all-nighters?

They just use methods that YOU don't know about, and obviously those selfish guys won't share them with you. But today, we'll be breaking down 10 of the GREATEST study hacks that EVERY top student uses and how you can effectively implement them before your next exam.

The BEST tip is last, but obviously ALL these tips are goated, so read on. (Don't just scroll to the bottom)

1. A Flexible Schedule

Top students ALWAYS plan their schedule ahead, but always keep buffer timings for unexpected events or changes, so that they NEVER miss a study session. It may sound like you never miss study sessions, but honestly, when was the last time you decided to skip a study session just because you had something else to do?

To implement this in your schedule, you want to obviously plan out your days, but leave “catch-up blocks” when unusual stuff takes place. If you don't have anything to catch up on in these blocks, just have some free time outdoors, because that really helps with focus and calmness.

2. Studying in Short Bursts

Most top students use the Pomodoro Technique (25 min focus, 5 min break) or variations of it, which doesn't break their focus and keeps them locked in.

If you also want to do this, set a timer and commit to one small chunk at a time instead of endless cramming. There are SO many apps and tools online with pomodoro timers, so you might as well make use of those.

3. Mix Study Techniques

Top students combine active recall, spaced repetition, and mind mapping instead of just rereading notes. This allows them to remember WAY more information and gives them the leading edge in exams.

To copy them, try using flashcards (Anki/Quizlet) for active recall and review them every few days instead of all at once.

4. Prioritizing Sleep

Sleep > studying. Toppers avoid sacrificing rest for last-minute studying because they know memory needs sleep.

Treat sleep as part of your study plan. Aim for 7–9 hours of good sleep before big exams, instead of cramming on that 3am study session.

5. Studying in “Distraction-Free Zones”

Class toppers choose a dedicated space for studying and keep it clutter-free, or they just study in libraries.

Find one spot at home or in a library where you only do schoolwork. No scrolling, no eating, no gaming, no nothing.

6. They Test Themselves

What toppers do: They quiz themselves before exams to find gaps in knowledge.

To copy them, use past papers or create your own practice tests based on your notes. Trust me, past papers are like GOLD.

7. Teaching Themselves Concepts

They explain concepts to friends or even to an empty room, which makes them easily recall what they taught in the exam and also REALLY makes themselves understand the topics thoroughly.

8. Taking Smart Breaks

Toppers use breaks to recharge, not to get lost in TikTok. I personally would ALWAYS get lost scrolling, until I became aware and just forced myself to stop.

Go for a walk, stretch, or do a quick chore during breaks to keep your mind fresh. But if all those are boring, work on something refreshing and new, like a blog like mine.

9. Avoid Last Minute All-Nighters

DON'T cram the day before the exam. Toppers will ALWAYS study a little every day instead of only before exams. Trust me, I learnt it the hard way.

Even 20 minutes of daily review beats a 5-hour panic session the night before.

10. Put Your Phone in a DIFFERENT Room

Finally, the BEST hack that sounds a bit stupid. I know, this might sound dumb, but TRUST me, it's worth it.

Ask a parent or sibling to put your phone in a different room, so you don't even know where it is. Now, instead of craving TikTok, you can ACTUALLY focus.

(Thank you Gohar for sharing this tip it REALLY works)

Pro Tip: You don’t need to adopt all 10 at once. Start with 2–3 habits, make them routine, then add more over time.