Planning, preparation, and sleep are vital to the success of students at UTHSC. This section includes advice and techniques that prepare students for academic success.
Last Reviewed:
June 8, 2026
First Published:
January 20, 2023
Why Use This Strategy
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Practice testing is an effective study tool. Integrating practice testing into studying routines demonstrated measurable benefits, especially over re-reading and highlighting studying techniques.
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Group contracts or “Team Expectations Agreements” enable student groups to become effective teams.
Top Tips
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To improve long-term knowledge acquisition, utilize study strategies like retrieval (flash cards) instead of passive studying tactics like rereading and highlighting. (Retrieval-Based Learning Strategies in Medical Education | Lecturio Medical)
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When engaging in group work, make sure to set goals and deadlines, delegate tasks, and discuss meeting times and communication methods when the group is first formed. (Using the Stages of Team Development | MIT Human Resources)
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Adequate sleep is very important for learning and memory because sleep deprivation reduces the ability to learn and retain knowledge. Sleep is of vital importance to academic success, as memories only consolidate (become stable) during sleep. (Sleep, Learning, and Memory | Healthy Sleep (harvard.edu))
- Rethink the study practice of “rereading.” It is not a high-yield study practice. Try these suggestions instead.(Rethinking Rereading | Faculty Focus)
Resources
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Retrieval-based strategies for medical education: lecturio_Retrieval-bases-Strategies.pdf
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Rethinking Rereading: Rethinking Rereading | Faculty Focus
- Sleep and Memory: https://sleep.hms.harvard.edu/education-training/public-education/sleep-and-health-education-program/sleep-health-education-88
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Timelycare – UT Health Science Center’s Free Virtual Health and Well-being Platform
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Educational Coaching – Academic Success, Disability Services, and Retention
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