How I Discovered Effective Study Habits as a Working Student

I used to think cramming was an effective study habit. Memorize everything the night before, pass the test, and move on. That’s how I survived the early days of college. As long as I passed, I thought I was doing fine.

But behind those passing grades was someone stressed, sleep-deprived, and constantly anxious. I wasn’t truly learning—I was just surviving.

Eventually, I hit a wall. That’s when I realized I needed a new approach. I needed effective study habits that would actually help me learn, not just get by.

Building a Smarter Study System

I started by changing how I took notes. Instead of writing down everything word for word, I developed a simple system that worked for me:

• Left side of the notebook: Key points and keywords, written in my own words.
• Right side: Questions that popped into my head, like “Bakit ganito?” or “Paano ito nangyari?”

This helped me engage with the material and truly understand it. At home, I’d answer my own questions before reviewing or creating online flashcards in a Q&A format—again, using my own words. This method became one of my most effective study habits.

Understanding Over Memorization

What changed the game for me was focusing on understanding. I stopped cramming and started studying with intention. I call this “memorizing by heart.” You don’t just store facts in your brain—you live them, feel them, and fully understand them.

Thanks to this shift, I stopped freezing during exams. I felt more confident, and answering questions became easier because I actually understood the material.

My “Always Ready” Mindset

One of the most effective study habits I developed was preparing every day as if there were an exam tomorrow. Even without an announcement, I studied. That way, when tests came, I just needed to review. It removed the pressure and helped me stay consistent.

Balancing School and Work

Being a working student meant I had to master time management. Before, I did everything last minute. Tasks piled up, and I felt constantly rushed and overwhelmed.

Now, I use any available time wisely. During class breaks, I review instead of mindlessly scrolling. It’s one of those effective study habits that not only frees up my evenings but also improves retention.

Knowing When and How You Study Best

I discovered I’m most productive around 3 to 4 AM. I prepare my reviewers the night before, and when I wake up, I just absorb the information. This early morning routine became another key part of my effective study habits.

Listening to My Body

Another lesson I learned is to listen to my body. If I’m tired, I rest. I don’t force myself to keep studying because burnout only drains me further. Effective study habits also include knowing when to pause and recharge.

Setting Priorities and Practicing Self-Control

I realized that real self-care includes discipline. If you want results, you need to set your priorities and stay focused. One question I always ask myself is, “Ano ba talaga ang uunahin ko?”

Effective study habits aren’t just about academics. They’re also about balance, discipline, and self-awareness.

Helpful Study Tools

I started using online tools like kanbanflow.com to manage tasks and time (not sponsored!). If it feels natural and reduces stress, it’s a keeper. The right tools make studying easier and more organized—another part of maintaining effective study habits.

Protecting My Focus and Energy

Lastly, I learned how important it is to protect my energy. I stopped venting online and instead started journaling or talking to someone I trust. If social media or certain people made me feel bad, I took a step back. Protecting your peace plays a big role in sustaining effective study habits.

When you're always distracted, it’s hard to meet your goals. But when you commit to habits that support your focus, your progress becomes more steady and fulfilling.