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Tips and Tricks for Pre-Med Students

Whether you're just starting your pre-med journey or deep into your science courses, this page is your go-to guide. From smarter study methods and strategic course planning to time management hacks that actually work, we’ve collected the essential tips every pre-med student wishes they had known earlier. Stay ahead, stay balanced, and set yourself up for success — one smart step at a time.

Areas of Focus

Study Tips

Use active recall, space out your studying, and create a distraction-free zone to study smarter.

Time Management

Plan your week, avoid procrastination, and keep a healthy balance to reduce stress.

Course Selection

Pick courses wisely, balance your workload, and build good relationships with professors.

Study Tips

1 / The Active Recall Method

Instead of just rereading notes, test yourself to boost memory and understanding.

  • Use flashcards or apps like Anki

  • Quiz yourself after reading a section

  • Teach the concept to a friend or out loud to yourself

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2 / The Cornell Note-Taking Method

Organize notes to improve review and retention.

  • Divide page into three sections: cues, notes, summary

  • Write notes during class in the largest section

  • Add keywords or questions in the cues column

  • Summarize main ideas at the bottom after class

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3 / The Spaced Repetition Method

Review material at increasing intervals to improve memory.

  • Review notes right after class, then 1 day later, then 3 days, 1 week, etc.

  • Identify gaps in your explanation and study those parts more

  • Space out study sessions instead of cramming

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Time Management Tips

01

The Pomodoro Technique

Break work into focused intervals with breaks.

  • Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break

  • After 4 cycles, take a longer 15–30 minute break

  • Helps maintain focus and prevents burnout

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03

​Prioritization with the Eisenhower Matrix

Focus on what really matters.

  • Divide tasks into 4 boxes: urgent & important, important but not urgent, urgent but not important, neither

  • Do urgent & important tasks first

  • Delegate or defer less important tasks

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02

Time Blocking

Schedule specific blocks of time for tasks.

  • Dedicate set periods in your calendar for studying, classes, breaks, etc.

  • Stick to the schedule to build routine and avoid multitasking

  • Helps visualize your day and prioritize important tasks

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04

Set SMART Goals

Make your goals clear and achievable.

  • Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound

  • Break big goals into smaller steps

  • Track progress to stay motivated

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1 / Backward Planning

Start from the due date and plan tasks backward to today.

  • Break big projects into smaller steps with mini-deadlines

  • Avoid last-minute rushes and stay on track

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2 / Utilize Office Hours and Study Groups

Get extra help and different perspectives.

  • Ask professors or TAs questions when confused

  • Join or form study groups for discussion and motivation

  • Collaborate on challenging topics and share resources

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3 / Read Ahead Before Lectures

  • Preview material before class by skimming textbooks or lecture slides.

  • Helps you follow along better during lectures and identify key points.

  • Makes it easier to ask questions and participate actively.

  • Saves time later because you’ve already been exposed to the content.

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Coursework Tips

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