Study Tip: Use Interleaving
Have you ever studied one topic for hours, only to forget most of it later? That’s probably because your brain wasn’t being challenged enough. While it feels natural to study one subject or type of problem at a time (called “blocking”), research shows there’s a better way: Interleaving.
Interleaving mixes up different topics or types of questions during a study session. It might feel more difficult at first, but it actually trains your brain to remember better and apply knowledge more flexibly – especially in exams.
What is Interleaving?
Instead of studying Topic A over and over, you alternate between different topics – like Topic A, then B, then C, and back to A. This forces your brain to switch gears, compare ideas, and spot patterns.
Think of it like training for multiple sports at once: it builds versatility and deeper understanding.
This improves problem-solving skills, strengthens memory by switching contexts frequently, and encourages comparisons and connections. In a real exam, topics can be mixed and students can go into the exam hall overconfident, assuming that they will be asked the specific things that they’ve revised. The reality is that exams can leave you humbled, and the spaced repetition of revision can help you prepare for that.
How to Use Interleaving:
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Pick 2 – 3 related topics.
For example: if you’re revising computer science, you might choose variables, if-statements, and loops. -
Study them in short bursts.
Spend 15 – 20 minutes on one, then switch to another. -
Mix up the question types.
Don’t just do definitions, mix in problem-solving, diagrams, and explain-in-your-own-words tasks. -
Review and return.
Go back to earlier topics in the same session, or rotate them in future study blocks.
Example Interleaved Study Session:
| Time | Task |
|---|---|
| 4:00–4:15 PM | Practice logic gates (Topic A) |
| 4:15–4:30 PM | Answer questions on binary addition (Topic B) |
| 4:30–4:45 PM | Do a loop structure quiz (Topic C) |
| 4:45–5:00 PM | Review logic gates & create flashcards (Back to A) |
Pro Tip:
At first, interleaving might feel confusing – and that’s a good thing! It means your brain is working harder to understand and retrieve information. That difficulty is what makes learning stick.
Try mixing up subjects, question types, or past paper topics when you revise. You’ll feel more ready when the exam throws a surprise your way.