Assessments such as quizzes and exams help educators recognize areas where students are excelling and where they might need extra help. In addition to regular tests on their classroom lessons, many students take standardized tests for state assessment purposes.

Testing may come easier to some students than others, but having good study techniques can improve students' performance on a wide range of exams. The testing preparation resource PrepScholar says it is important to build and maintain strong study habits to help students avoid undue stress and last-minute cramming. The following seven techniques may help foster good study skills.

First, students can try to find value in the lessons. Students might believe that what they learn in school is irrelevant in daily life, which can make the subject matter feel less important and uninteresting. Finding value in what one is learning and seeing how it can be applied outside the classroom may make a student more inclined to learn and retain the information.

Second, it is important to avoid distractions. Study time should be free of social media, video games, and any other distractions that can pull a student away from studying. Constantly checking notifications can interrupt thoughts and make it hard to learn the material.

Third, students should establish a system and a schedule for studying. Students should establish a routine of studying each day or at intervals throughout the week.

Fourth, it is important to establish dedicated study spots. Students should locate places that work best for them as study and homework stations. Certain individuals may need the quiet of a library or a bookstore while others may do best with the hum of conversation around them or as part of a study group. There is no right or wrong study spot. Maintaining consistency will help the mind to associate a place with studying.

Fifth, students can use grades as benchmarks and motivators. Grades can indicate how well one is learning the material and, in turn, the effectiveness of the student's studying habits. Students can modify their habits if they find they are not reaching their acadmic goals.

Sixth, students can rephrase the material. If students find textbook language dry and unappealing, they can try putting the material into their own words or rephrasing passages to make them easier to remember. Sharing the material with another person also may improve retention.

Lastly, making a formula sheet can improve study habits. Depending on the subject, students can create a sheet with shortcuts, formulas, or diagrams, thereby arranging the material in smaller groups of information that are easier to digest. Along the same line, writing information down can help improve recall.

By following these study tips, students may increase their potential for academic success.