Lakemary High School
Study Smarter 

February 26, 2026

Study hack’s, organization tips, and productivity tips that students actually use.

All teachers talk about being productive, no matter the subject. They always say, “The best thing to do before a test is study,” but after eight hours of school, it is hard for teens to come home and focus again. Let’s be honest, when students get home, the last thing we want to do is start another assignment.

Being productive after school is not easy. At home, there are distractions everywhere, including our phones, the people around us, and even our beds. An after-school nap sounds much better than opening a textbook.

However, studying does not have to be terrible. Short-term distractions may feel better, but long-term success matters more. When you earn a good grade, you will be glad you put your phone away.

For some students, studying is easier said than done. Others have strategies that make focusing easier. Let’s see what RamNation has to say.

Jordan (Freshman)

“The study method that works best for me is writing down the material and going over it again. I can usually focus for about 50–60 minutes before needing a break. One study mistake I’ve learned from is not keeping track of the correct answers, since not all notes are on a test. I keep track of assignments by making notes. My best organization tip is to always keep things tidy. The biggest thing that distracts me while studying is my phone or other people. To avoid procrastinating, I keep my work as my top priority. My go-to “get focused” trick is to put everything down and look at nothing but the work.”

Fernando (Freshman)

“The study method that works best for me is ask chat gpt to make a study guide off worksheets and notes. I can usually focus for about 1hour before needing a break. One study mistake I’ve learned from is don’t leave it till the date before you study. I keep track of assignments by checking skyward. My best organization tip is separate work in folders. The biggest thing that distracts me while studying is instagram . To avoid procrastinating,I set alarms to do my work . My go-to “get focused” trick is music.”

Jude (Sophomore) 

“The study method that works best for me is just doing the work and going over it a few times.I can usually focus for about like 45 minutes before I need a break.One study mistake I’ve learned from is waiting till the last minute and then stressing for no reason.I keep track of assignments by checking the app and putting stuff in my notes. My best organization tip is just don’t let it stack up or it gets bad fast.The biggest thing that distracts me while studying is my phone, 100%.To avoid procrastinating, I tell myself to just start it and get it over with. My go-to “get focused” trick is putting my phone somewhere I can’t see it and playing music.”