Here’s the thing, studying harder is not always the same as studying better. If you are sitting at your desk for hours, tired, stressed and barely remembering anything, the problem might not be your effort. It might be your routine.

Research has shown that exercise can improve focus, memory and mood. Even a short walk, a game of sport, or a quick workout can increase blood flow to the brain and help you feel more alert. That means exercise is not “wasting study time”. It can actually make the time you spend studying more effective. After moving your body, it is often easier to concentrate, solve problems and stay motivated.

Naps can help too. Studies on sleep and learning show that short naps can improve memory and help your brain process information. When you learn something new, your brain needs time to organise it. A nap gives your brain a reset, especially when you are exhausted after school. The key is to keep it short. A 20 to 30 minute nap can help you feel refreshed without waking up groggy. So instead of forcing yourself to study non-stop, try building smarter breaks into your day. Study for a focused block, then move around. Go outside, stretch, shoot hoops, or take a quick walk. Later, if you feel drained, take a short nap before getting back into work.

This does not mean you should use exercise or naps as an excuse to avoid studying. It means you should treat your brain like something that needs energy, rest and balance. Good study habits are not just about textbooks and notes. They are also about sleep, movement and looking after yourself. If you want better results, do not just ask, “How many hours did I study?” Ask, “Was my brain actually ready to learn?”

Nabil Harrar