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smartgirl

@smartgirrl / smartgirrl.tumblr.com

just a girl trying to survive AP Chem as well as other classes

meet smartgrrl

hello and welcome to my blog! i'm smartgirrl (or just call me kohane) and i am now in my junior year of high school. i'm not new to tumblr, however this is my first time actively posting to my blog.

about me

  • kohane, she/her
  • i'm waisian (white/japanese) and live in the US
  • 16 y/o, taurus, enfj

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classes

  • anatomy + physiology
  • english 3
  • AP chemistry
  • AP psychology
  • AP precalculus
  • french 3
  • physics

how to complete the book you started

finishing a book can be incredibly rewarding, especially when you’ve made the effort to stay consistent. the only issue is... well actually reading the book.

set small reading goals

  • daily pages: set a goal to read a certain number of pages or chapters daily.
  • chapter milestones: reward yourself after completing each chapter to keep up your momentum.

create a reading routine

  • set a time: choose a specific time each day dedicated to reading, such as before bed or during your morning commute.
  • find a quiet space: create a distraction-free zone where you can focus entirely on your book.

eliminate distractions

  • turn off notifications: silence your phone or put it in another room while you read.
  • set a timer: use a timer to focus on reading for a set time without interruptions, such as 20-30 minutes.

switch formats

  • audiobooks: listen to the book while driving, walking, or doing household chores to keep making progress.
  • e-readers: using a digital reader might be more convenient if you’re often moving around.

track your progress

  • use a bookmark: visually seeing how much you’ve read and how much is left can provide a sense of accomplishment.
  • reading apps: apps like Goodreads allow you to log your reading progress and connect with other readers.

find an accountability partner

  • reading buddy: partner with a friend who’s also reading or start a book club to discuss the book and motivate each other.
  • social media: share your reading goals or progress for additional accountability. i think i know a website called tumblr...

apps that boost productivity

i feel like i've tried every productivity app out there, and so i gathered my favorites so far here:

task management apps

1. todoist

features -> subtasks, recurring tasks, priority levels, and collaboration features. benefits -> easy organization of tasks with intuitive categorization helps you stay on top of deadlines.

2. tiimo

features -> color-coded daily overview of all your plans, focus timer, ai-powered checklists that break down big tasks. benefits -> flexible planning and visually rewarding, making it easy to digest your day

3. structured

features -> intuitive timeline, subtasks, focus timer, easily rearrange tasks, color coding. benefits -> visual timeline and easily creating tasks makes it easy to stay on task

this is my personal favorite!! i've been using it for a while and the visual appeal + the functions make it so easy to stay motivated.

focus and concentration apps

4. forest

features -> set a timer for focused work sessions, and if you stay off your phone, a tree grows. benefits -> visually rewarding, this app helps you build good habits and combat phone addiction.

5. focus@will

features -> different music channels tailored to various tasks and productivity styles. benefits -> the right music can create an optimal studying environment, minimizing distractions.

time management apps

6. toggl track

features -> one-click time tracking, reporting, and project management. benefits -> learning how you spend your time can help you tailor your habits.

7. pomodoro timer apps

features -> customizable work sessions (typically 25 minutes), followed by short breaks. benefits -> helps maintain focus and reduces burnout during intense study sessions.

note-taking apps

8. evernote

features -> notebooks, tags, web clipping, and integration with other apps. benefits -> keeps your study materials organized and accessible across devices.

9. onenote

features -> sections, tags, and integration with the microsoft office suite. benefits -> perfect for students who enjoy a more visual and flexible approach to note-taking.

my schedule today

10-15-24

morning

05:00 | wake up!

05:05 | breakfast

05:35 | thermochemistry hw

05:50 | study bone anatomy + osteons

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school

today I have my anatomy, chem, precalc, and physics. i have an anatomy test today and chem test thursday... this test cycle will never end 😭

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after school

15:50 | workout!!

  • this is also when i binge watch shows and youtube videos :)

17:10 | shower

17:35 | math hw

18:35 | study chem reactions

  • this involves reading the textbook 3 times over and completing an endless amount of practice problems...

20:50 | downtime

the two-minute rule

the two-minute rule states that if a task can be completed in two minutes or less, you should do it immediately.

the benefits

  • momentum boost -> each small task completed adds to a sense of progress, motivating you to tackle larger tasks.
  • improved focus -> completing minor tasks frees up mental space, allowing you to concentrate on more complex assignments.
  • increased self-efficacy -> accomplishing tasks, no matter how small, reinforces your ability to succeed.

how to implement the two-minute rule

take note of tasks that typically linger on your to-do list. for ex:

replying to an email organizing your study space making a short phone call updating your planner or calendar

find moments in your day to tackle quick tasks:

  • during breaks -> use study breaks to complete small tasks, helping to refresh your mind.
  • while waiting-> complete tasks while waiting for a class to start or while commuting.

keeping track of completed tasks can further enhance your motivation:

  • use a checklist -> check off completed tasks to visually represent your progress.
  • celebrate small wins -> acknowledge your accomplishments, no matter how minor, to maintain motivation.
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applying to schools (what to consider)

academic programs: ensure the schools offer strong programs in your areas of interest. there's no point getting into and attending a prestigious school if you're not interested in what you're studying.

location: think about whether you prefer an urban, suburban, or rural setting, and consider the climate and distance from home. distance from home is a big thing if you're still living at home or are not yet in university/college. i'm in tenth grade at the moment and attend a school that is around an hour and a half away from my home - but it's a great school and i enjoy the schooling!

when applying to universities outside of your state/country, research the surrounding areas so that you understand what you're getting yourself into by applying.

size: decide if you want a large university with many resources or a smaller college with a close-knit community. additionally, consider whether you'd like to learn in a fast-paced and busy city or in a more laid-back environment.

cost and financial aid: evaluate tuition costs and the availability of scholarships, grants, and financial aid. if you have the ability to apply for a scholarship/grant, do not waste the opportunity!

campus culture: visit campuses if possible or attend virtual tours to get a feel for the student life and community. this can help you understand whether or not the environment is right for you.

admissions requirements: check the average gpa, test scores, and other requirements to ensure you meet the criteria. - and then bloody work for it! make sure that you are suitable for your dream school. there is no point in researching these things if you will not work to improve them.

extracurricular opportunities: look for clubs, sports, and other activities that interest you, or that you currently participate in. sharing an extracurricular activity with a university/college may give you a talking point for your interview/admissions essay.

career services: consider the support available for internships, job placements, and career counseling.

reputation and rankings: while not the only factor, the school’s reputation and rankings can provide insight into its strengths. check the times higher education site to look at the strengths and weaknesses of your preferred college.

personal preferences: think about what matters most to you, such as diversity, study abroad programs, or specific facilities.

i hope this was helpful! ❤️nene

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how to use “toxic productivity habits” the right way

there are so many ways to be productive that often end up labelled “toxic” because they result in burnout or demotivation, but from personal experience (i.e., lots of cycles of toxic productivity -> demotivation -> burnout -> repeat) i believe it's because you need to use these strategies the RIGHT way. you wouldn't try to use a spoon the way you use a fork and vice versa! 🍽️ so here's how i keep my plate FULL while maintaining my sanity 😌

🏃‍♀️ multitask the right way 🏃‍♀️

  • certain activities lend themselves to stacking together while others do not
  • as a general rule: mindless activity x mentally engaging activity

🌸 some examples from my life:

  • doing readings x stretches or getting steps in
  • watching lectures x eating meals
  • laundry or other chores x language lessons

🗓️ overbook yourself the right way 🗓️

  • this strategy is best used in conjunction with that of booking in buffer time and prioritizing must-haves vs. nice-to-haves
  • sometimes you underestimate how long something will take simply because you're dreading it or doubting your own abilities, so this is a great way to get around that if you're that kind of person!
  • i like to make a dream list of everything i want to get done in a day so that i can keep track of it all and i'm never left wasting my free time because i didn't plan something
  • also, because it's a dream list, i know i can cut things if i can't make it all happen and there's no pressure or regret

🍨say yes to everything the right way🍨

  • use this for external accountability, but ONLY for things you actually want to do anyway
  • do it scared, do it alone, do it imperfectly, as long as you do it, you will see growth, i promise!

🌸 some examples from my life:

  • i wanted to get my driver's license, so i booked and paid for my lessons and the exam ahead regardless of whether i felt scared or tired (but not too tired, practice safe driving, guys!!), and i got my license with just 2 months of practice
  • i wanted to start my own engineering project at work, so i told my entire team that i would take charge of it before i had any clue about a solution for the problem we were facing or who would even want to work with me, and i figured that shit out because i had to

💌 bonus tip: once you get really comfortable with using these strategies, you can start bringing it all together! say yes -> overbook -> multitask — you'll find you can accomplish far more than you think! 💓

exercise in your routine

incorporating physical activity into your study routine can significantly enhance your cognitive function and overall productivity.

the cognitive benefits of exercise

  • enhanced memory -> regular physical activity promotes the growth of new brain cells and improves memory retention, helping you recall information more effectively.
  • increased focus -> exercise boosts blood flow to the brain, which can enhance concentration and attention span.
  • reduced stress -> physical activity releases endorphins, the body's natural stress relievers, which can help reduce anxiety and improve your mood.
  • better sleep -> incorporating exercise into your routine can improve sleep quality, allowing you to be more alert and focused.

how to incorporate exercise into your study routine

  • mini workouts -> try quick, bodyweight exercises like push-ups or squats to get your blood flowing during study breaks.
if i study for 2+ hours, i'll try to cram a one hour workout in sessions and take a shower afterwards
  • standing desk -> consider using a standing desk that allows you to alternate between sitting and standing while studying.
  • study walking -> if possible, take your study materials outdoors and walk while reviewing notes or listening to lectures.
  • find an activity you enjoy -> choose exercises that you find fun to make it easier to stick to a routine. even walking can be active.
  • post-study workout -> promise yourself a workout or a fun physical activity after finishing a challenging study session.
keep this in mind: don't exercise too late into the day otherwise you'll mess up your circadian rhythm, making it harder to sleep

how to effectively review your notes after class

reviewing your notes shortly after class can greatly improve retention and understanding. here are something that i do!

why review your notes?

forgetting curve -> a phenomenon where our brains tend to forget information rapidly if we don’t revisit it.

by reviewing your notes within 24 hours, you strengthen neural connections and solidify the material in your long-term memory.

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effective strategies for reviewing your notes

1. active review

  • summarize the material -> after class, write a brief summary of the key points in your own words.
  • ask yourself questions -> turn headings or bullet points into questions and see if you can answer them without looking at your notes.
  • teach someone else -> explaining the material to someone else can reinforce your understanding and identify gaps in your knowledge.

2. organizing your notes

  • highlight key concepts -> use different colors or underlining to emphasize important points, formulas, or definitions.
  • add examples -> include real-world examples next to complex ideas to make them more relatable and easier to remember.
  • create summaries or concept maps -> condense lengthy notes into diagrams, charts, or mind maps to visualize relationships between topics.

3. spaced repetition

  • review within 24 hours -> go over your notes right after class to reinforce initial learning.
  • space subsequent review -> revisit the material after a few days, then again after a week.
  • use flashcards or apps -> tools like anki or quizlet can help with spaced repetition by showing you content at optimal intervals.

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how to keep your notes engaging

  • make it visual -> use diagrams, doodles, or flowcharts to break up text-heavy notes and make reviewing more interactive.
  • incorporate mnemonics -> create acronyms, rhymes, or mental images to help remember lists or difficult concepts.
if you want to go beyond... what i do is take my notes digitally during class (or before if the lecture is posted online) and after the lesson rewrite everything in my notebook. by rewriting everything, i review the lesson :)

tips for better focus

break it down with the pomodoro technique -> trains your brain to stay focused in short bursts by breaking your study sessions.

25-minute chunks, followed by a 5-minute break. after 4 pomodoros, take a longer break (15-30 minutes).

create a distraction-free zone -> set up a dedicated study space that’s free from clutter and noise.

put your phone on do not disturb mode or use apps like forest or cold turkey to block distracting websites and apps.

use the two-minute rule -> if you have a task that will take two minutes or less, do it right away! getting these out of the way before studying can clear your mind for better focus.

studying with friends: the pros and cons

studying with friends can be a great way to enhance your learning experience, but is it always beneficial?

the pros

  • accountability: you’re less likely to procrastinate. knowing others are relying on you can motivate you to stay on track.
  • diverse perspectives: group study allows you to gain different viewpoints on the material, making it easier to understand complex topics.
  • collaboration: working together can lead to better problem-solving and idea generation.
  • shared resources: friends can share notes, textbooks, and online resources that can enhance your study materials.
  • motivation: studying with others can create a supportive environment, making the learning process more enjoyable and less isolating.

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dealing with study burnout

it’s that moment when the textbooks, notes, and exams start to feel overwhelming. what can you do to avoid study burnout?

take regular breaks -> follow the pomodoro technique or take short breaks every 45-60 minutes.

set realistic goals -> break your study sessions into smaller, manageable tasks.

instead of cramming an entire chapter in one sitting, focus on mastering one section at a time.

mix up your study routine -> alternate between reading, writing, watching videos, or using flashcards.

practice self-care -> get enough sleep, stay hydrated (~72 oz), and eat nourishing foods. incorporate exercise, whether it's a quick walk, or a gym session.

know when to step back -> taking a break occasionally will help you return to your studies feeling refreshed and ready to focus.

practice mindfulness -> try practicing meditation to calm your mind. even a 5-minute session can help you reset mentally and emotionally.

headspace - a great guided meditation app, the only con is the pricing

here are some good free alternatives tho:

  • insight timer
  • runner
  • medito

connect with others -> even a quick chat about how you’re feeling can make a huge difference in your mood and motivation.

celebrate small wins -> don’t wait until you’ve finished a whole subject to feel accomplished.

celebrate the small victories—whether it’s finishing a section, acing a practice quiz, or just sticking to your study plan for the day.

adjust your expectations -> if things don’t go exactly to plan, don’t beat yourself up. adjust your expectations and keep moving forward.

take time to unplug -> unplugging for a few hours can give you a much-needed mental break.

I can guarantee that less social media makes my mood better, not just for studying but for social interactions. try making a dedicated time of the day where you step away from screens!!

tips for different learning styles

we all learn differently, so tailoring your routine to your unique needs can make a huge difference in how effectively you study.

for visual learners

create color-coded mind maps -> link ideas with arrows and branches, using different colors

red for key points, blue for examples, green for definitions

use diagrams and charts ->detailed diagrams and flowcharts used to illustrate processes

highlight key text -> use a highlighter for dense readings to create a clear structure

watch educational videos -> subject-specific videos and pause them periodically to take notes on key visuals

Crash Course - they have pretty much every subject Khan Academy - also a lot of subjects Amoebea Sisters - good science explaining (esp biology) Brilliant - has great diagrams + excersizes

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for auditory learners

record yourself reading key notes -> and listen to the recordings while reviewing.

study with a friend and explain concepts to each other out loud.

if a reading is especially dense, explain them step by step

use podcasts or audiobooks -> use podcasts or audiobooks related to your subjects as a way to absorb information on the go.

Hardcore History Science Vs Math Ed Podcast College Info Geek Podcast

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for kinesthetic learners

space while studying -> try studying while moving, like walking around or pacing, to keep your body engaged.

hands-on-learning -> participate in hands-on activities like experiments or creating models to better understand abstract concepts.

create interactive flashcards -> shuffle flashcards and lay them out on the floor or a table, grouping related concepts to create a physical connection between ideas.

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for reading/writing learners

summarize in your own words ->re-write the key points of a reading in your own words

create a one-page summary for each chapter and try to condense the information into a clear structure

annotate as you need -> jot down important ideas in the margins

underline significant concepts and write your thoughts or questions directly in the text

use practice tests -> review your practice test carefully, writing down why each choice was correct or incorrect, to reinforce your learning

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A NEW ISSUE OF THE ELONOMH TIMES! oh my it has been too long! i definitely want to get back into the habit of posting these mini-magazines fortnightly,,

and be sure to send any post suggestions to my ask box!

❤️nene

physics study tips

physics can be such a difficult class but how can you make it work for you?

master the fundamentals -> understand basic concepts like Newton's laws and energy conservation before tackling advanced physics problems.

draw diagrams and graph -> create visual representations of problems, such as free-body diagrams of motion

i have so many doodles of badly drawn people throwing object 😭 but it rlly helps reinforce the idea

the science of learning

understanding how your brain learns can help you optimize your study habits and make learning more efficient and enjoyable

how the brain learns

your brain is a network of neurons that form new pathways or strengthen existing ones when you learn.

neuroplasticity -> allows your brain to adapt and learn throughout life.

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spaced repetition

...is reviewing information over increasing intervals of time.

  • this technique helps move information from short-term memory to long-term memory, making it stick better.
  • Anki or Quizlet use this technique for efficient studying

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active learning

passive studying (re-reading) is less effective. use active learning methods:

  • testing yourself - with flashcards or quizzes
  • teaching others - explaining concepts out loud
  • turning notes into visual aids - like mind maps or concept diagrams

the more actively you engage, the better you retain information!

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chunking

the brain can only hold a limited amount of information in working memory at once

  • break large information into smaller, manageable "chunks."
ex: group numbers into sets (like phone numbers).

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the importance of sleep

sleep consolidates memories and strengthens neural connections + filters out irrelevant info, helping key details stick

  • studying before bed - improves retention after a good night's rest.

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multisensory learning

the more senses you use when learning, the better you’ll remember.

  • using visual aids, audio, and even physical movement can help reinforce what you’re trying to learn.
creating colorful notes, speaking aloud, or even walking while reviewing flashcards can make a big difference in memory retention.

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growth mindset

... believing you can improve is crucial to learning effectively.

  • embrace mistakes as part of the learning process – they’re essential for growth!
  • focus on effort and progress, not perfection
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