While there are always one or two students in every class who seem hardwired to excel, the reality is that most children need to develop their organizational skills, test-taking strategies, and executive function habits over time. When schools take the time to explicitly teach study skills, they provide students with a long-term advantage that extends far beyond the classroom.
Study Skills Can Be Learned
Academic excellence is not an innate gift for most — it is a behavior that can be learned. Many students mistakenly believe they simply need to “work harder,” but the real key to success is learning how to work more effectively. Through targeted lessons, students can develop concrete habits that make school more manageable and fulfilling.
Executive Function Skills
Executive function — a set of mental skills that include working memory, flexible thinking, and self-control — is essential for academic success. These skills enable students to initiate tasks, organize their materials, plan and prioritize assignments, and manage their time effectively.
One helpful practice is for students to reflect on their own strengths and weaknesses in areas such as organization, time management, and goal-directed behavior. This self-awareness allows them to set achievable personal goals and develop the tools they need to track and meet them.
Building Organizational Systems
Organization is a foundational skill that directly impacts academic performance. Students benefit from periodic checks of their notebooks, folders, and binders to keep materials neat, labeled, and accessible. Knowing what to keep and what to discard — and having a system to stay on top of materials — can reduce stress and improve focus.
Time management is equally important. Students often over- or underestimate how long it takes to complete homework or study for a test. By tracking how they actually spend their time on evening routines — including dinner, homework, and getting ready for the next day — students develop awareness and can adjust accordingly to avoid burnout and last-minute stress.
Managing Stress and Exam Preparation
Exams are a significant source of stress for many students. Learning how to prepare efficiently, reduce anxiety, and perform under pressure is crucial. Students benefit from being taught specific techniques for studying, predicting potential test questions, and retaining information.
Incorporating mindfulness exercises can also help students quiet their minds before a big exam. These calming strategies help with focus and confidence, making test days feel more manageable and less overwhelming.
Final Thoughts
Study skills are just that — skills. With intentional teaching and consistent practice, students can learn how to study smarter, not harder. When given the right tools and support, students of all backgrounds can build the habits needed to thrive academically and manage the pressures of school life with confidence.