Exam Study Expert: ace your exams with the science of learning 220. Study Motivation and the U Shaped Curve
Mar 15, 2026
A deep dive into the U-shaped curve of study effort and performance. Tips on spotting where you sit on that curve through metacognition. Discussion of motivation versus burnout and finding the right study intensity. Advice on mixing flashcards and past papers depending on what you already know. How to personalise spaced repetition frequency to avoid under- or over-studying.
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Study Time Follows An Upside Down U
- Performance versus study time follows an upside-down U shape where both too little and too much studying reduce scores.
- William Wadsworth calls this the Goldilocks sweet spot: aim for the middle amount of study to reach peak exam performance.
Coaching Clients Show Opposite Study Problems
- About a quarter of William's coaching clients need help increasing study hours through motivation and routine, especially school-age students.
- He contrasts this with professional clients who more often risk overworking and burning out rather than lacking effort.
Mix Flashcards With Past Papers For Best Results
- Do balance study methods: mix flashcards (knowledge building) with past papers (application) rather than doing only one approach.
- Lean more on flashcards if you lack course knowledge, and more on past papers if you already know most content.
