By Katie Azevedo. M.Ed. When it comes to studying, there is a major difference between memorization and understanding. I’m going to explain the differences and when to use each method, but let’s start with this simple but important distinction: Memorization is temporary and limited to …
9 tips for taking timed tests
By Katie Azevedo, M.Ed. In this post, I’m sharing 9 tips for taking timed tests. Timed tests include standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and AP exams; they also include school exams that have to be completed in one class period. Tests are naturally anxiety-producing …
8 goal-setting tips for students
By Katie Azevedo, M.Ed. This tutorial offers 8 goal-setting tips for students, although many of the tips are solid strategies for goal-setting in general – for anyone. Goal-setting is all the rage around the new year, but I think most of that is simply traditional …
Before you shut down for school vacation, do this
By Katie Azevedo, M.Ed. School vacations come in all shapes and sizes. I also know that the moment any of these vacations begin, you’re slamming your device closed, chucking your backpack in the closet, and disconnecting from school entirely. I am all for the last …
4 ways to use flashcards to study
By Katie Azevedo, M.Ed. Flashcards are one of the most inexpensive, easy-to-find, and effective study tools you can possibly use. Yeah, I know there are approximately one bazillion cool apps and digital study websites available now, but I stand by my claim that old-school flashcards …
ADHD and procrastination: 5 tips for task initiation
By Katie Azevedo, M.Ed. Procrastination is normal, everyone does it, and it essentially serves a fundamental purpose: to avoid pain. But procrastination is also a self-destructive behavior that can lead to troubled relationships, poor academic performance, low confidence, and anxiety. ADHD and procrastination go hand-in-hand …
The ultimate 5-day study plan
By Katie Azevedo, M.Ed. Here’s the scenario: On a Monday, your teacher tells you there will be a test on Friday. Knowing it’s “only Monday,” you won’t even think about the test until Wednesday, at which point you tell yourself I’ll just study tomorrow. But …
10 productive things to do when you don’t have homework
By Katie Azevedo, M.Ed. Days without homework are the best. Whether it’s just one homework-free night, a weekend with nothing due on Monday, or even a whole vacation week with no long-term assignments hanging over your head, the feeling is liberating. While you should take …
Homework management system: Calendar vs. assignment notebook
By Katie Azevedo, M.Ed. I’m frequently asked about the difference between a calendar and an assignment notebook. They are not the same. At all. While both are essential pieces of a student homework-management system, they each have a unique function. The bottom line: Neither a …
How to be a good student: 4 common myths about what it really takes
By Katie Azevedo, M.Ed. There are a lot of misconceptions floating around about how to be a “good” student. Included in these common myths are false ideas about study habits, memorization, and time spent on homework. In this tutorial, I share 4 common myths about …










