How do I study more effectively to get better grades?

You can study more effectively by building a rock-solid foundation using proven techniques like active recall and spaced repetition. These methods make learning faster and more enjoyable by helping you avoid common mistakes like passive reading. Focusing on high-impact study habits ensures you retain information longer while reducing the total time spent at your desk.

What are the best memory techniques for retaining information?

The best memory techniques involve using mnemonic devices, visualization, and focus strategies that unlock your brain's natural ability to store data. By concentrating deeply and eliminating distractions, you can move information from short-term to long-term memory more efficiently. These strategies allow you to recall complex facts during exams with much greater clarity and confidence.

Why is critical thinking important for academic success?

Critical thinking is essential because it allows you to develop mental models for solving complex problems and making better decisions under pressure. Instead of just memorizing facts, thinking like a genius involves approaching challenges with a clear framework for analysis. This depth of understanding helps you tackle difficult subjects and provides a significant advantage in higher-level coursework.

Can I actually increase my learning speed for difficult subjects?

Yes, you can increase your learning speed by mastering advanced strategies for rapid skill acquisition and cognitive velocity. By streamlining how you process new information, you become a learning machine capable of tackling any subject with confidence. This approach focuses on identifying the core principles of a topic to achieve mastery in a fraction of the usual time.

Does deep focus actually work for improving intelligence?

Deep focus works by allowing your brain to reach a state of high concentration where it can process and synthesize information at a superior level. Strengthening your attention span directly impacts your ability to understand difficult concepts and perform better on cognitively demanding tasks. Consistent focus training is a primary driver for both academic excellence and long-term cognitive growth.

How long does it take to see results from new study habits?

You will typically see noticeable improvements in your comprehension and retention within the first two weeks of applying structured learning techniques. While mastering mental models and advanced memory strategies takes consistent practice, the initial shift toward active learning provides immediate benefits for your grades. Long-term success comes from refining these habits until they become second nature.

To be smarter and have good grades

LEARNING PLAN

This plan is essential for students and lifelong learners who want to move beyond rote memorization toward true cognitive mastery. It provides a structured path to optimize brain function, improve academic performance, and develop the mental agility required for modern intellectual challenges.

ByCommunity User

3 h 13 m

• 4 sections • 11 courses • Updated 35 days ago

11 sources

How This Learning Plan Was Made

This plan was crafted by BeFreed's proprietary AI to help you learn To be smarter and have good grades with ease. It is curated from in-depth research on the topic and structured around the most effective learning journeys proven by BeFreed users.

Each episode delivers bite-sized, high-impact lessons distilled from world-class sources — bestselling books, research papers, and expert insights. Together, they form a sophisticated yet accessible path to mastering To be smarter and have good grades.

What You'll Learn

Master proven study techniques to make learning faster and more enjoyable.
Enhance memory retention and concentration through specialized focus strategies.
Develop critical thinking skills and mental models for better decision-making.
Acquire advanced learning strategies for rapid skill acquisition in any subject.
Build a rock-solid foundation to avoid common academic mistakes and pitfalls.
Transform into a high-velocity learner capable of tackling complex challenges.

Build rock-solid study foundations with proven techniques that make learning faster, easier, and more enjoyable while avoiding common mistakes.

How to Become a Straight-A Student

Unlock the secrets of top students to ace exams, write stellar papers, and maximize free time in college.

8 m

12 sources

Study Smarter: The Science of Effective Learning

Discover evidence-based techniques that transform how you retain information, from retrieval practice to spaced learning, and leave ineffective cramming behind for strategies that work with your brain, not against it.

38 m

Learn Like a Pro

Master the art of learning with science-backed strategies to boost focus, memory, and efficiency in any subject.

9 m

Unlock your brain's full potential with memory techniques and focus strategies that help you retain more information and concentrate deeply.

Unlimited Memory

Unlock your mind's potential with powerful memory techniques to learn faster, remember more, and boost productivity effortlessly.

9 m

MAKE IT STICK , BROWN, PETER C. [Hardcover] HARVARD UNIVERSITY PRESS

20 sources

Memory training to stop forgetting what you read

We forget 90% of what we learn within a week. Discover how to use cognitive reps and strategic spacing to build a brain that actually retains info.

32 m

Unlock Your Brain

Brain optimization: manage distractions, sleep well, work deeply.

1 m

Develop critical thinking skills and mental models that help you solve problems, make better decisions, and approach challenges with clarity.

The Five Elements of Effective Thinking

Unlock your potential with five powerful thinking strategies to solve problems and spark creativity in all aspects of life.

9 m

Mental Models

Mental models toolkit for smarter, science-backed decision-making.

1 m

Master advanced learning strategies and rapid skill acquisition to become a learning machine who can tackle any subject with confidence.

The Science of Rapid Skill Acquisition

Master complex skills faster: science-backed shortcuts the elite use

9 m

18 sources

Become Intellectually Unstoppable

Discover how the top 1% of students build a 'second brain' to master material effortlessly. Learn the science-backed systems that transform ordinary studying into extraordinary academic performance.

13 m

Learn Better

Discover the science of learning and master techniques to become an expert in any field, revolutionizing your approach to skill acquisition.

9 m

Discover more

Strengthen my mind for academic success

LEARNING PLAN

Strengthen my mind for academic success

This plan is essential for students and lifelong learners who want to move beyond rote memorization toward true intellectual mastery. It bridges the gap between effort and results by combining cognitive science with practical resilience strategies.

2 h 26 m•4 Sections

Become a better learner

LEARNING PLAN

Become a better learner

This plan is essential for anyone looking to optimize their cognitive performance and master new skills in a fast-paced world. It is designed for students, professionals, and lifelong learners who want to move beyond passive study habits toward high-impact, evidence-based learning strategies.

3 h 15 m•4 Sections

Boost productivity, joy & intellect in school

LEARNING PLAN

Boost productivity, joy & intellect in school

This plan is designed for students and lifelong learners who want to move beyond rote memorization toward true intellectual mastery. It combines cognitive science with positive psychology to help anyone transform their academic experience into a high-performance, joyful pursuit.

2 h 42 m•5 Sections

Get better grades and learn more and more

LEARNING PLAN

Get better grades and learn more and more

This plan is essential for students and lifelong learners who want to move beyond rote memorization toward genuine mastery. It combines cognitive science with practical productivity systems to help anyone achieve academic excellence and intellectual maturity.

2 h 10 m•4 Sections

To get smarter

LEARNING PLAN

To get smarter

This learning plan is essential for anyone looking to optimize their cognitive performance and mental clarity. It is designed for lifelong learners and professionals who want to move beyond surface-level information to achieve true intellectual mastery and better decision-making.

2 h 42 m•4 Sections

To be successful in my academics

LEARNING PLAN

To be successful in my academics

This learning plan is essential for students and lifelong learners who want to move beyond rote memorization toward true academic mastery. It provides a comprehensive toolkit for anyone looking to optimize their cognitive performance and achieve sustainable academic excellence.

2 h 3 m•4 Sections

Be good in school

LEARNING PLAN

Be good in school

This learning plan is essential for students looking to move beyond rote memorization and towards a sustainable system for academic achievement. It is designed for learners at any level who want to optimize their cognitive performance while maintaining mental health and personal growth.

2 h 24 m•4 Sections

Learn better.

LEARNING PLAN

Learn better.

This learning plan is essential for students and professionals looking to optimize their cognitive output and master new subjects quickly. It provides a comprehensive roadmap from foundational brain science to the advanced mental models required for elite performance.

3 h 9 m•4 Sections

FAQs

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 1,000,000 Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 1,000,000 Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

See More Stories?

How people are talking about BeFreed across the web

1.5K Ratings4.7

Start your learning journey, now

To be smarter and have good grades

LEARNING PLAN

To be smarter and have good grades

ByCommunity User

3 h 13 m

• 4 sections • 11 courses • Updated 35 days ago

11 sources

How This Learning Plan Was Made

What You'll Learn

Master proven study techniques to make learning faster and more enjoyable.
Enhance memory retention and concentration through specialized focus strategies.
Develop critical thinking skills and mental models for better decision-making.
Acquire advanced learning strategies for rapid skill acquisition in any subject.
Build a rock-solid foundation to avoid common academic mistakes and pitfalls.
Transform into a high-velocity learner capable of tackling complex challenges.

Build rock-solid study foundations with proven techniques that make learning faster, easier, and more enjoyable while avoiding common mistakes.

How to Become a Straight-A Student

Unlock the secrets of top students to ace exams, write stellar papers, and maximize free time in college.

8 m

12 sources

Study Smarter: The Science of Effective Learning

38 m

Learn Like a Pro

Master the art of learning with science-backed strategies to boost focus, memory, and efficiency in any subject.

9 m

Unlock your brain's full potential with memory techniques and focus strategies that help you retain more information and concentrate deeply.

Unlimited Memory

Unlock your mind's potential with powerful memory techniques to learn faster, remember more, and boost productivity effortlessly.

9 m

20 sources

Memory training to stop forgetting what you read

We forget 90% of what we learn within a week. Discover how to use cognitive reps and strategic spacing to build a brain that actually retains info.

32 m

Unlock Your Brain

Brain optimization: manage distractions, sleep well, work deeply.

1 m

Develop critical thinking skills and mental models that help you solve problems, make better decisions, and approach challenges with clarity.

The Five Elements of Effective Thinking

Unlock your potential with five powerful thinking strategies to solve problems and spark creativity in all aspects of life.

9 m

Mental Models

Mental models toolkit for smarter, science-backed decision-making.

1 m

Master advanced learning strategies and rapid skill acquisition to become a learning machine who can tackle any subject with confidence.

The Science of Rapid Skill Acquisition

Master complex skills faster: science-backed shortcuts the elite use

9 m

18 sources

Become Intellectually Unstoppable

Discover how the top 1% of students build a 'second brain' to master material effortlessly. Learn the science-backed systems that transform ordinary studying into extraordinary academic performance.

13 m

Learn Better

Discover the science of learning and master techniques to become an expert in any field, revolutionizing your approach to skill acquisition.

9 m

Discover more

Strengthen my mind for academic success

LEARNING PLAN

Strengthen my mind for academic success

2 h 26 m•4 Sections

Become a better learner

LEARNING PLAN

Become a better learner

3 h 15 m•4 Sections

Boost productivity, joy & intellect in school

LEARNING PLAN

Boost productivity, joy & intellect in school

2 h 42 m•5 Sections

Get better grades and learn more and more

LEARNING PLAN

Get better grades and learn more and more

2 h 10 m•4 Sections

To get smarter

LEARNING PLAN

To get smarter

2 h 42 m•4 Sections

To be successful in my academics

LEARNING PLAN

To be successful in my academics

2 h 3 m•4 Sections

Be good in school

LEARNING PLAN

Be good in school

2 h 24 m•4 Sections

Learn better.

LEARNING PLAN

Learn better.

3 h 9 m•4 Sections

FAQs

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 1,000,000 Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 1,000,000 Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

See More Stories?

How people are talking about BeFreed across the web

1.5K Ratings4.7

Start your learning journey, now

To be smarter and have good grades

How This Learning Plan Was Made

What You'll Learn

1Master the Art of Learning

2Supercharge Your Memory and Focus

3Think Like a Genius

4Accelerate Your Learning Velocity

Discover more

Strengthen my mind for academic success

Become a better learner

Boost productivity, joy & intellect in school

Get better grades and learn more and more

To get smarter

To be successful in my academics

Be good in school

Learn better.

FAQs

How do I study more effectively to get better grades?

What are the best memory techniques for retaining information?

Why is critical thinking important for academic success?

Can I actually increase my learning speed for difficult subjects?

See More Stories?

To be smarter and have good grades

How This Learning Plan Was Made

What You'll Learn

1Master the Art of Learning

2Supercharge Your Memory and Focus

3Think Like a Genius

4Accelerate Your Learning Velocity

Discover more

Strengthen my mind for academic success

Become a better learner

Boost productivity, joy & intellect in school

Get better grades and learn more and more

To get smarter

To be successful in my academics

Be good in school

Learn better.

FAQs

How do I study more effectively to get better grades?

What are the best memory techniques for retaining information?

Why is critical thinking important for academic success?

Can I actually increase my learning speed for difficult subjects?

See More Stories?