Many students take notes while they read.

Then they review the notes.

Some students also use a highlighter.

Experts say these old habits may help.

They help if you cram for a test.

But they are not good for long-term learning.

Pooja K. Agarwal is a cognitive psychologist.

She said people think the easiest methods work best.

But the opposite is true.

She said social media study hacks do not help.

These hacks include chewing gum, smelling oils, or listening to music.

They may make you happy.

They may keep you awake.

But research shows no real benefit.

Robert Bjork is a professor emeritus at UCLA.

He said highlighting and rereading notes feel useful.

But they do not help much long-term.

Bjork said students learn better with "desirable difficulties."

Small mental challenges make brain connections strong.

Then you can recall information more easily later.

Agarwal recommends "retrieval practice."

Do not take notes while you read.

Read a few pages.

Stop.

Then write down what you remember.

Henry L. Roediger is a professor at Washington University in St. Louis.

He said retrieval works in many ways.

You can write it down.

You can talk with a partner.

You can think it through.

But you must spell it out in your mind.

Do not just glance and think you know it.

Agarwal also suggests a "brain dump" before you review.

Spend one minute.

Write everything you remember.

Then ask yourself how well you learned the material.

She said cramming works for passing a test.

But spacing study over several days helps long-term memory.

Roediger added that sleep helps consolidate memories.

So pulling all-nighters is not a good idea.