5 Study Hacks YouTubers Swear By (And How You Can Use Them Too)

Discover the top 5 study hacks used by popular YouTubers to boost productivity and focus. Learn how to use the Pomodoro Technique, Active Recall, and more to study smarter, not harder!

Ever wonder how YouTubers manage to study for hours, stay focused, and still have time to create content? The secret is in their study hacks! These influencers have mastered the art of productivity, and today, we’re sharing their top 5 study hacks—so you can use them too. Whether you’re prepping for exams or just trying to stay on top of your coursework, these tips will change the way you study forever.

Why You Should Trust These Study Hacks

YouTubers like Mariana’s Study Corner, Ali Abdaal, and Ruby Granger have spent years perfecting their study routines. With millions of followers and proven success, their tips are tried and tested. Plus, these hacks are backed by science, so you know they work!

1. The Pomodoro Technique (Used by Mariana’s Study Corner)

What it is: Study for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After 4 cycles, take a longer break.

Why it works: Prevents burnout and keeps your brain fresh. Studies show that short breaks improve focus and productivity.

How to use it:

• Use a timer app like Forest or TomatoTimer.
• During breaks, stretch, hydrate, or do a quick mindfulness exercise.

Pro Tip: Mariana recommends pairing this with a study playlist to stay motivated. Try lo-fi beats or classical music for better concentration.

2. Active Recall (Popularized by Ali Abdaal)

What it is: Testing yourself on the material instead of passively rereading notes.

Why it works: Strengthens memory and helps you retain information longer. Research shows that active recall is one of the most effective study methods.

How to use it:

• Use flashcards (try Anki or Quizlet).
• Cover your notes and try to explain the concept out loud.
• Create practice questions and test yourself regularly.

Pro Tip: Ali suggests spacing out your recall sessions for better long-term retention. Review material after 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month.

3. Study With Me Videos (Inspired by TheStrive Studies)

What it is: Watching “study with me” videos to create a sense of accountability and focus.

Why it works: Mimics the feeling of studying in a library or with friends. The presence of someone else studying can motivate you to stay on task.

How to use it:

• Search for “study with me” videos on YouTube (e.g., 2-hour focus sessions with calming music).
• Follow along and stay on task.
• Use noise-canceling headphones to block out distractions.

Pro Tip: Choose videos with timers or Pomodoro intervals to structure your study sessions.

4. The Feynman Technique (Used by Elizabeth Filips)

What it is: Simplify complex topics by teaching them to someone else (or pretending to).

Why it works: Forces you to understand the material deeply. If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.

How to use it:

• Write down the topic you’re studying.
• Explain it in simple terms, as if teaching a child.
• Identify gaps in your understanding and revisit your notes.

Pro Tip: Record yourself explaining the topic and watch it back to spot areas for improvement.

5. Digital Minimalism (Inspired by Ruby Granger)

What it is: Eliminating digital distractions to create a focused study environment.

Why it works: Reduces multitasking and improves concentration. Studies show that multitasking can reduce productivity by up to 40%.

How to use it:

• Turn off notifications or use apps like Freedom or Focus@Will.
• Keep your phone in another room during study sessions.
• Use a minimalist desktop setup with only essential tools open.

Pro Tip: Ruby recommends setting specific times for checking emails and social media. For example, check them only during breaks.

Bonus: Tools and Resources to Supercharge Your Study Sessions

Here are some additional tools and resources to help you implement these study hacks:

• Notion: A versatile app for note-taking, task management, and organizing your study schedule.
• Khan Academy: Free educational resources for a wide range of subjects.
• Grammarly: Improve your writing and proofread essays effortlessly.
• Evernote: A great tool for organizing notes and creating study guides.

These study hacks aren’t just for YouTubers—they’re for anyone who wants to study smarter, not harder. Try one (or all!) of these tips and see how they transform your productivity. And hey, if you have a favorite study hack, share it in the comments below. Let’s help each other succeed!

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