Which of the following is not considered an effective study strategy?

Cramming before an exam is not considered an effective study strategy because it typically involves last-minute memorization of material, which may lead to superficial understanding and inadequate retention of information. This approach often increases stress and anxiety, and studies have shown that distributed practice—spread out over time—is much more effective for long-term retention and comprehension.

In contrast, summarizing information allows students to process and condense material, aiding in understanding and recall. Using flashcards is a well-documented effective study technique that promotes active recall, reinforcing memory retrieval. Both of these strategies facilitate deeper learning, making them more beneficial compared to cramming. Thus, the focus in effective studying should be on techniques that enhance understanding and retention over rushed memorization.