17 active learning strategies to help you succeed while studying

Let's be real – cramming the night before an exam and memorizing slides word-for-word isn't the best way to learn. It might help get you through the test, but two days later? Gone. This is where active learning shines.

Active learning is all about actually doing something with the information. It's the difference between zoning out during a lecture and raising your hand to ask a question. Between re-reading your notes and quizzing yourself out loud while walking around your room. If you're tired of passive learning and want to remember the important materials you study while getting the most out of your tuition, these strategies are for you.

What is active learning?

Active learning is a way of learning that gets your brain involved. Instead of just listening, reading or highlighting, you're applying, discussing, solving, creating and questioning. Active learners stay engaged, which helps build long-term memory and understanding.

Basically, it’s a way to level up your studying and retention of things you're studying.

Why passive learning doesn't stick

Passive learning is everything you were probably taught to do in school, listen to the teacher, copy the notes, reread your textbook. The problem? It doesn’t ask much of your brain. You’re not creating connections or using the information. Instead, you're just hoping it sticks.

If you’ve ever felt like you studied hard but couldn’t remember anything during the test, you’ve been there.

Improve studying with active learning techniques

Ready to ditch the highlighter and remember what you're learning? Here are 17 active learning strategies, complete with examples to try in your next study session.

1. Teach it to someone else

If you can explain it in your own words, you get it. Try teaching the material to a friend, your pet or even your plant. (They wont judge).

2. Create flashcards

Create flashcards to study (then actually use them). Write questions on one side, answers on the other and quiz yourself. This will help you identify which areas you know well and which cards you should focus on.

3. Use the Feynman Technique

The Feynman Technique is a method where you explain a concept in simple terms, like you’re teaching it to someone with no background in the topic. Pick a topic, write about it in simple language, then identify the gaps in your understanding. Fill in those gaps. Repeat.

4. Draw a concept map

Visually connect ideas using diagrams or flowcharts. It helps you see the big picture.

5. Solve practical problems

Especially for STEM subjects, working through examples is a must. Don’t just watch someone else do it, try to give it a go yourself!

6. Join a study group

Talking through ideas with other students keeps you engaged and adds perspectives you might’ve missed. Check out your school's academic student organizations. You can join a group with people in the same area of study, giving you access to potential study partners. 

7. Turn headings into questions

Instead of reading passively, flip textbook headings into questions and try to answer them without looking.

8. Summarize each lecture in your own words

Right after class, jot down a quick summary. Don’t just rewrite what was said, translate it into your own language and in a way that you understand.

9. Make it a game

Create trivia questions, play Jeopardy with friends or turn your notes into a Kahoot.

10. Use active recall

Quiz yourself without looking at your notes. The struggle to remember is what makes it stick.

11. Practice retrieval throughout the week

Don't save studying for the day before the exam. Practice recalling key ideas multiple times across days. With more practice, comes better memory!

12. Record yourself explaining a concept

Listen back later and check for clarity. If you sound confused, time to review.

13. Use case studies and real-life examples

Apply what you’re learning to real-world situations. It’s especially useful in fields like psychology, business and health sciences.

14. Take practice tests

Simulate test conditions and time yourself. Go over what you missed and try again.

15. Do a brain dump

Before reviewing, write down everything you know about a topic. Then check what you missed and review that.

16. Mix up topics

Instead of studying one subject for hours, rotate between topics. It forces your brain to work harder (in a good way).

17. Reflect after studying

Ask yourself: What did I learn? What was confusing? What’s my plan to improve? Reflection builds study skills over time.

Active learning vs passive learning

Active learning is more work up front but less stressful when exams roll around and you know your stuff!

Active learning at Central Michigan University

At Central Michigan University, active learning isn’t just a strategy, it’s what We Do. With hands-on learning built into the classroom experience, students don’t just memorize facts, they apply them. From collaborative projects and labs to real-world simulations and fieldwork, CMU students have the chance to build skills in their field of study. Plus, our smaller class sizes mean you won’t get lost in a sea of faces. You’ll get to participate, ask questions and actually engage with what you’re learning.

Build study skills that stick

The best way to improve studying isn't to study more, it's to study smarter. These active study techniques help you build strong habits that go beyond memorizing. Whether you're prepping for finals or just trying to push through midterms, these strategies can change how you learn.

Pick a few, try them out and see what works best for you!