The Problem With Rereading
Rereading feels productive because the material looks familiar, but familiarity is not the same as recall. Many students fail to notice gaps until they sit for the exam.
What Active Recall Looks Like
Close the book and write down what you remember about a topic. Answer practice questions, use flashcards, or teach the concept aloud. The effort of retrieving information strengthens memory.
Making It a Habit
After each study session, spend five minutes writing a short summary from memory. Check it against your notes and fill in gaps. Over time, this process builds confidence and reveals what to review next.