Study Tips

by Kay Lane

Have you ever needed to study, but don’t know the best way? Or maybe you’ve never needed to study, but now you do! Well here’s a how-to article on studying.

1. Stay organized.

Get rid of all distractions so that you can focus on studying rather on games and other distracting items. Make sure you are comfortable; it is easy to focus this way. Make sure you have enough space to spread your notes and textbooks.

2. Have a schedule.

Have a few hours of studying time with some breaks. 30 to 50 minutes with a 5 to 10-minute break between is what is best for studying.

3. Regularly drink water and move.

Make sure to have a big bottle of water to drink! Your brain is 80% water and needs water to keep moving. Make sure to do a few jumping jacks or run around your house when you are on break. It helps keep your brain from feeling sluggish.

4. Explain your answers to friends or family members.

If you explain what you are learning to your family members or friends; it helps the information to stick in your head!

5. Communicate with others.

Communicate with your parents and teachers openly about how things are going. Do not be afraid to ask for help. They are happy to help and want to see you succeed. 

6. Use your NSA resources.

Mrs. Kimberly Smith recommends looking at the folder in your orientation course from the Dean of Students, Mr. Scott Berggren, to review what is available to you. He gives lots of suggestions including using a timer and staying organized.

“I also work with families to help them find strategies and solutions to make their experience at North Star even better. If you need any academic assistance or would like advice with your class, contact me. I want you to have a great school year and I’m ready to help you and your family find that,” the Dean of Students, Mr. Berggren, says in his introduction.

Mrs. Smith, Student Success Coach says, “We want to help you get started at North Star successfully, so please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.”


Lastly here are some small tips to keep in mind!

1. Study even when you do not want to.

2. Believe you can become more intelligent.

3. Be willing to read outside the course material.

4. Know when to seek help from parents, teachers, and relatives.

5. Never be surprised by due dates.

6. Know where to find notes and documents.

7. Do not fall behind by not spending enough time studying.

8. Be willing to try new study techniques.

9. Be intentional with your study time.

10.  Seek and act on feedback.


I am hoping that this article will help you with your next test! Study hard!


Kay Lane is a journalist for The Navigator. She currently resides in the Middle East with her family. Kay is in the seventh grade, and this is her first year at NSA. Her hobbies are archery, painting, and she plays soccer. She also loves Star Wars.