Study sprints: preview → 10‑minute burst → quick recall (repeat)
The sprint loop
Each cycle has three parts: Preview → 10-minute burst → Quick recall. Preview primes your brain with structure. The burst moves fast using RSVP in Whoosh to minimize eye movement. Quick recall tells you whether speed produced learning—no illusions.
Designing your sprints
- Pick a target: “Understand the three causes of X” beats “Read chapter 4.”
- Choose tempo: start at a comfortable WPM and nudge +20–40 when recall is solid.
- Block distractions: one window, phone away, timer on.
Recall that actually tests memory
- Micro‑summaries: write one sentence per paragraph.
- Keyword trios: 3 words that reconstruct the idea later.
- Two quick questions: ask what the author claimed and what evidence was offered.
Scaling up
Chain 3–4 sprints with 3–5 minute breaks. After the chain, look across your summaries and build a 5‑bullet “chapter map.” This map becomes tomorrow’s warm‑up. Weekly, compile the best bullets into a one‑page sheet you can revisit before exams.
Common pitfalls
- Reading without recall: feels productive but doesn’t stick. Always close with recall.
- Speeds that outrun meaning: if your summary is vague, drop the WPM.
- Over‑annotating: flag during reading, expand after.
Templates
Humanities: read an essay at moderate speed; summarize arguments and evidence. Sciences: read explanation paragraphs fast; slow for definitions/equations and worked examples. Languages: RSVP helps for graded readers; pair with speaking or shadowing afterward.
Weekly plan
Mon–Thu: one 40–50 minute block (3–4 sprints). Fri: review maps and do a past‑paper set. Sat: catch‑up or free read. Sun: rest. Keep each block small and sharp; the consistency compounds.
Proof you’re learning
Track three numbers: WPM, recall score (out of 5), and confidence. If speed goes up while recall stays 4–5, you’re winning. If recall dips, lower speed or add a second pass.
Final thoughts
Sprints are not about rushing—they are about intent and feedback. When the loop hums, studying feels lighter and results arrive faster.