Study Myths We All Believed That Are Actually Hurting Your Grades

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“Akala ko effective, ‘yun pala kalokohan lang!”

Studying feels like trial and error most of the time. You try what works for others, highlighting your books like a coloring book, re-reading notes a hundred times, or pulling all-nighters with nothing but caffeine and vibes, only to realize… wala pa ring pumapasok sa utak mo.

Here’s the real deal: not all “study tips” are created equal. Some of them are actually myths—passed down like ancient secrets—that do more harm than good. So before you highlight your entire textbook again, read this!


Myth #1: “The longer you study, the better you'll remember.”

Reality: Studying for hours without breaks? That’s not dedication, that’s torture. Your brain isn’t a sponge—it’s more like a phone battery. It needs charging (a.k.a. breaks) to work well.

Try this instead: Use the Pomodoro Technique – 25 minutes study, 5-minute break. Repeat four times, then take a longer break. Mas productive ka pa, promise. and you may have read about the technique here because it really works! 

Myth #2: “Highlighting everything helps me memorize.”

Reality: If your notes look like a rainbow, you're probably not really absorbing anything. Highlighting is only useful when you actively process the info.

Try this instead: Use active recall. Cover your notes and try to explain the topic in your own words—kahit aloud pa 'yan sa kwarto mo, okay lang. That’s how you really learn.

Myth #3: “Cramming the night before is better than nothing.”

Reality: Cramming might work sometimes (hello, short-term memory), but it’s not reliable. You forget most of what you read the next day—lalo na kung puyat ka pa.

Try this instead: Spread out your review. Kahit 30 minutes a day basta consistent, you’ll thank yourself during the exam.

Myth #4: “Re-reading notes is the best way to review.”

Reality: Reading without testing yourself is like watching someone do push-ups and expecting your muscles to grow.

Try this instead: Take practice tests, flashcards, or quiz yourself. Your brain learns better when it struggles a little.

Myth #5: “Studying in complete silence is the only way to focus.”

Reality: Not true for everyone. Some people actually focus better with background noise or soft music. The key is finding your vibe.

Try this instead: Try instrumental music, lo-fi beats, or ambient coffee shop sounds. (YouTube and Spotify got you covered.)

Final Thought:

Wag kang papa-budol sa myths! Just because it’s been passed down from upperclassmen or a viral study hack video doesn’t mean it actually works. Figure out what helps you learn, not just what looks aesthetic or “smart.”

Pro Tip: Track which strategies work and which don’t. Studying smart > studying hard.

You might also be interested with The Top 10 Excuses That Students Make or you might have missed our Free Resources filled with Top School Admission Links and Reviewers

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