Our education system sort of promotes the cramming or mugging culture where students are encouraged to learn huge amounts of information in a short period. This hampers their ability to think critically and instead mug up the information.

So, when you sit down to study alone, the first and foremost step you can take is to discard this practice and avoid it at all costs because the goal of studying (Be it literature, science, or mathematics) is not to remember but to understand it deeply and critically.

Secondly, refrain from using multimedia devices if you prefer reading from books. Make sure that the environment is suitable for studying because a disengaged or distracted mind will not be of any use.

Create a study timetable to complete your studies on time and to stay on the correct track while learning. Lastly, set your focus and try to achieve your learning goals with full concentration and dedication.