Explore every episode of the podcast Exam Study Expert: ace your exams with the science of learning
Dive into the complete episode list for Exam Study Expert: ace your exams with the science of learning. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
Rows per page:
50
1–50 of 224
Title
Pub. Date
Duration
205. A Hands-On Guide To Zettelkasten Notes: Practical Advice from Expert Bob Doto
09 Nov 2025
00:58:11
Today we’re revisiting the Zettelkasten system for capturing and organising your notes, with esteemed expert Bob Doto. Bob has effectively codified the Zettelkasten methodology, written the excellent go-to primer on the topic, and moderates the popular r/Zettelkasten subreddit community.
So few have thought more about the practical implementation of Zettelkasten than Bob. And today we’re breaking down a lean Zettelkasten workflow for anyone interested in starting the method, but with a particular interest in academic use.
From initial note-taking through to the anatomy of different note types, and with clear steps and live examples, Bob will help you see the value of making connections between your notes, thoughts and ideas.
• Join a candid, relatable roundtable on PhD experiences with Dr Alix Hibble and Dr Kerri Edinburgh, in episode 124: https://examstudyexpert.com/celebrating-phds/
204. Introducing: "S.O.C.K. To Do Lists" - My Perfect Planning Protocol for Faster Studying
02 Nov 2025
00:17:28
Today, I'm sharing a simple way to study faster by clearing mental clutter and turning a long or disordered to‑do list into a sharp plan for today.
There is surprising power in the right daily task list to boost focus, reduce decisions, and build momentum.
Discover how my all-new "SOCK" method for the perfect daily to-do list can transform your day.
When you start with a list that is Specific, Ordered and Clear, you can Knock it out in no time!
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams*
*
* As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
A simple daily practice to have happier, more productive days: gratitude journalling for students.
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams*
Today's references:
Jeliseh, M.T., Valizadeh, M., Zohrabi, M. and Xodabande, I. (2025), Enhancing Language Teachers' Well-Being Through Positive Psychology Interventions: A Mixed-Methods Study Focusing on Gratitude Journaling. Psychology in the Schools. https://doi.org/10.1002/pits.70005
Tolcher, K., Cauble, M., & Downs, A. (2022). Evaluating the effects of gratitude interventions on college student well-being. Journal of American College Health, 72(5), 1321–1325. https://doi.org/10.1080/07448481.2022.2076096
Redwine LS, Henry BL, Pung MA, Wilson K, Chinh K, Knight B, Jain S, Rutledge T, Greenberg B, Maisel A, Mills PJ. Pilot Randomized Study of a Gratitude Journaling Intervention on Heart Rate Variability and Inflammatory Biomarkers in Patients With Stage B Heart Failure. Psychosom Med. 2016 Jul-Aug;78(6):667-76. doi: 10.1097/PSY.0000000000000316. PMID: 27187845; PMCID: PMC4927423.
*
*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
The Study Smarter Network is my new signature extravaganza VIP programme lovingly designed to provide the ultimate support for students or professionals studying for challenging exams.
It's an unbeatable blend of on-demand video trainings on exactly how to learn faster, remember more, beat procrastination and maximise your mark on exam day, backed up by personalised advice and guidance from me via regular Office Hours and Q&A.
How to learn the Math / Maths more effectively, for top scores on the quantitative element of your tests and exams. Part 3 of my "5 High Impact Upgrades" series all this week on the Exam Study Expert podcast.
The Study Smarter Network is my new signature extravaganza VIP programme lovingly designed to provide the ultimate support for students or professionals studying for challenging exams.
It's an unbeatable blend of on-demand video trainings on exactly how to learn faster, remember more, beat procrastination and maximise your mark on exam day, backed up by personalised advice and guidance from me via regular Office Hours and Q&A.
How to upgrade your spacing / spaced repetition system - one of my all-time favourite "secret" formulas for exam success, especially when you have tonnes to memorise. Part 2 of my "5 High Impact Upgrades" series all this week on the Exam Study Expert podcast.
The Study Smarter Network is my new signature extravaganza VIP programme lovingly designed to provide the ultimate support for students or professionals studying for challenging exams.
A winning blend of next-level video teaching on exactly how to learn faster, remember more, beat procrastination and maximise your mark on exam day, backed up by personalised advice and guidance from me via regular Office Hours and Q&A.
How to upgrade your study routine / revision timetable - a powerful way to get more done and take control. Part 1 of my "5 Powerful Study Upgrades" series.
The Study Smarter Network is my new signature extravaganza VIP programme lovingly designed to provide the ultimate support for students or professionals studying for challenging exams.
A winning blend of next-level video teaching on exactly how to learn faster, remember more, beat procrastination and maximise your mark on exam day, backed up by personalised advice and guidance from me via regular Office Hours and Q&A.
This bonus episode unpacks all the different ways Exam Study Expert is available to provide you with support in studying for your exams, including a very special announcement!
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
*
* As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams*
*
* As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
What drives you to get to your books each day and get your studying done?
I share some of the best answers to this question I've come across recently, to help get you inspired, and perhaps give you some ideas to find (or deepen) your own sense of purpose.
Because with a big enough WHY, any HOW becomes possible!
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
97. Quiet Ambition for Students - with Ruth Poundwhite
05 Mar 2023
00:42:03
Exploring introversion in school / university, your ambition, personalised goal setting for students, coping with overwhelm and burn out in the run-up to exams, deep mindset work and more!
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
* As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
An important message for those who need to hear it, because simply packing in more hours is not the path to success. Balance is the key.
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
195. The Happy Student - with Dr Heather Frederick
22 Jun 2025
00:39:30
Happiness isn't just about feeling good – it's about living in alignment with your values and purpose while managing inevitable stress more effectively.
• Stress is the primary barrier to happiness, hijacking your brain and making good decisions difficult • Toning your vagus nerve through humming, breath work, movement, connection and nature helps reset your nervous system • Self-care doesn't just take time – it expands time by improving decision-making and clarity • Colour-code tasks as red (urgent), yellow (needs attention), green (ongoing) or grey (time-wasters) to manage overwhelm • Create space between receiving feedback and responding to avoid reactive decisions • When confused or uncertain, ask for clarification rather than guessing • Focus on enjoying the learning process rather than fixating solely on grades
Visit expandyourhappy.com to learn more about Dr. Heather Frederick's work and resources.
Heather's podcast is at https://happydocstudent.com/
Her 5.0-star rated book is at https://geni.us/happy-student*
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams*
*
*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
95. How To Set Study Goals That WORK - With David Hyner
19 Feb 2023
00:32:52
Finding your why, setting MASSIVE goals, and the magic "pyramid" process for how to achieve them, with today's special guest, goals expert David Hyner!
Find David online at: DavidHyner.com StretchDevelopment.com
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
Don’t settle for less than you can be. Never give up.
Today's epic tale spans decades of our hero's life, and has seen her overcome lack of money and grind in minimum-wage jobs, lack of time, family tragedy and her own mental health struggles.
No matter what you're facing - never say never!
NB: Please stay listening to the end of the episode - although our protagonist had some poor sleep habits earlier in her life, she later saw the error in her ways and now prioritises sleep, and, like us, is a big advocate of a healthy sleep routine!
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
92. 3 Magical Mental Models To Help You Plan, Prioritise And Feel Calmer
22 Jan 2023
00:13:01
Discover the power of The Glass, The T-Shape and The Process Flow: 3 handy and flexible mental images I often use to help students plan, prioritise and feel calmer in their studies.
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
“The path to productivity runs right through calm.”
The “most productive man you could hope to meet” (TED), Chris Bailey, was back on the show to talk about how finding calm not only is good for mind and body, it also actually helps us get more done (not less).
Find more from Chris at ChrisBailey.com, and you can find his podcast (Time & Attention) on all podcast players.
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
* As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
Hosted by William Wadsworth and Dr Alix Hibble, memory psychologists and study skills coaches. We help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, our award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
* I may get compensated if you use Headspace, but this has no bearing on my decision to recommend it to you. In fact, I had been personallyusing and enthusiastically recommending Headspace for 3-4 years before we started our commercial partnership.
How do friends and colleagues impact your study habits? Who lifts you up... and who drags you down?
Whether you prefer to swim solo or are a long-time fan of your study group, everyone wants slightly different things from their peers.
We get real on the potential frictions and how to manage them, as well as making the most of using your support network as you prepare for exams.
Featuring Dr Alix Hibble, Exam Study Expert's new study strategy coach and expert on all kinds of useful stuff, in conversation with your regular host, William Wadsworth.
88. Effective Study Strategy In Action: Flashcards, Anki & Spacing
06 Dec 2022
00:41:38
Max, a CPA (accounting) exam candidate, brings us the daily challenges of learning an information-dense course, and how flashcards make the learning process flow!
Whatever course you're studying, I encourage you to listen to the logistics of flashcard use, as foundation for progressing your own goals.
*
Flashcard links in line with Max's recommendations:
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
87. Five Fun Memory Effects & How They Can Help Your Studying
27 Nov 2022
00:17:43
Today, I wanted to share 5 fun little features of memory that psychologists have figured out over the years, and how we can use them to help "hack" the learning process. Enjoy!
86. Writing A Stand-Out College Essay - Greg Smith
29 Oct 2022
00:40:38
College essays: the bit of your application that give you an opportunity to really shine, and stand out from the crowd, especially for competitive schools.
To help us smash our essays out of the park, I’m joined by vastly experienced US tutor and education guru, Greg Smith, who drops some incredible wisdom on how to nail your college essay.
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
85. Navigating US College Applications - Teri Thompson
28 Oct 2022
00:31:19
If you’re applying for US colleges and universities, or thinking of doing so, then this episode is for you.
I’m talking to college consultant Teri Thompson who is a formidable wealth of information about the vast ecosystem of US colleges, and who’s generously here on the show today to walk us through the main options in terms of choosing colleges, and how to decide where is right for you to apply.
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
194. The Motivated Student - Set The Vision With Steve Gamlin + Find Your Purpose with Ian Chamandy
15 Jun 2025
00:50:55
Discover the power of clear purpose and a compelling vision with today's double bill episodes featuring two guests: Ian Chamandy and Steve Gamlin.
***
First, we dive into the world of purpose with coach, entrepreneur and author Ian Chamandy:
Unpack the value of having a really clear view of your purpose in life and as a scholar
Learn how to distil that purpose into helpful statement
Discover the tangible effect on confidence and decision making
Learn how knowing your purpose can help drive your studies and career choices
Visit https://purposeu.ai/about/ to learn more about Steve Gamlin's work and resources at PurposeU.
***
Next up, meet author, coach and vision board expert, Steve Gamlin, and:
Learn how to improve all areas of your life by visualising where you want to be one year from now
Discover how to identify your core values
Learn how to create an effective vision board focused on realistic goals
Find out the importance of celebrating the small wins alongside the big achievements!
Visit https://stevegamlin.com/ to learn more about Steve Gamlin's work and resources.
Find Steve's podcast the Motivational Firewood Podcast here: https://stevegamlin.com/podcast/
***
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams*
***
*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
I took major exams over 7 years of my life, through high school and University (Cambridge).
Looking back, there were 7 pivotal moments itself which made all the difference when it came to my final grade.
I'm not talking about the studying or the exam prep - these 7 moments are all taken from what happened actually in the exam hall itself.
Learn from my mistakes, borrow from what I did well, and use my experiences to help set YOU for maximum success if and when you face similar challenges on the day of your exam.
Because sometimes, all you need is one more mark to pass.
Here's how to get it :-)
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
Discover my 12 time-saving tips and tricks to create more time in even the busiest of schedules!
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
How to overcome procrastination when studying: my top 6 tips to beat procrastination and get things done!
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
I'm in the hotseat this week, as habit change coach Chris Loper puts me through my paces in building a lasting habit in my own life.
Whatever habit you’re trying to build, I encourage you to listen to the approach Chris takes with me, and try and apply the same principles to your own goals.
Can a leopard change its spots? Is it possible to make lasting changes to your daily habits? Listen in and find out!
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
REWIND: Jo' Journey: A Truly Incredible Student Story [Orig. Ep 18]
19 Dec 2021
00:36:45
Another chance to catch perhaps the greatest "student story" I'll ever tell: how one man named Jo made it from primitive island village to the top of the career ladder in the Western world, through the power of education.
But perhaps the most incredible part of it all: how he did it all while staying humble, gentle and incredibly generous of spirit.
He's an inspiration to us all. This is Jo's story.
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
Summarising and synthesising the How To Study Effectively course right here on the Exam Study Expert podcast. It all works together as a complete system - listen today to discover how!
The 8th and final part of this special 8-part series on "How To Study Effectively" (abbreviated to H2SE in show titles).
* Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. https://examstudyexpert.com
78. A Neat Trick For Mastering Problems In Maths (& More!) (H2SE 7/8)
06 Dec 2021
00:27:53
Today, we’re talking about interleaving: a powerful but not widely-known study strategy for maths-style problems.
Interleaving will help you master maths faster, and score more highly in tests and exams.
This is Part 7 of this special 8-part series on "How To Study Effectively" (abbreviated to H2SE in show titles).
If you haven't already listened to Part 1 (broadcast as Episode 66 "How To Study Effectively: 6 Pillars of Student Success"), I recommend you start there before listening to this episode.
* Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. https://examstudyexpert.com
We catch up with Australian high schooler Rose from Episode 69, one year on, to hear about the impressive transformation she'd pulled off, and break down just how she did it.
Learn the strategies she used to go from a C grade to an A grade in less than a year!
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
Today’s episode brings you the solution to those toughest of memory challenges: by the end, you’ll have a toolkit of handy mnemonic tricks to help you learn those hardest-to-remember bits of your course.
This is Part 6 of this special 8-part series on "How To Study Effectively" (abbreviated to H2SE in show titles).
If you haven't already listened to Part 1 (broadcast as Episode 66 "How To Study Effectively: 6 Pillars of Student Success"), I recommend you start there before listening to this episode.
* Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. https://examstudyexpert.com
The psychological principle of "Cognitive Load Theory" has considerable power to understand how our brain thinks. There are some fascinating and powerful applications when you're taking exams to help your brain thinking smoother and faster.
Discover five of my favourite exam-hall tips and tricks to help your brain work faster, make fewer mistakes, and score more marks when it matters most.
For more, check out Outsmart Your Exams:
>> https://geni.us/exams*
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams*
*
*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
75. Retrieval Practice For Passing TOUGH Exams: Charlie's Student Story
14 Nov 2021
00:28:47
Discover how aspiring barrister Charlie passed his notoriously challenging law exams using techniques from the Exam Study Expert podcast.
A story of success by studying smarter, not harder; how to achieve at the highest level in academic exams WITHOUT working all night!
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
74. Creative Ways To Study With Practice Questions (H2SE 5/8)
07 Nov 2021
00:22:05
Today, we’re talking about practice questions and past exam paper questions: a wonderfully effective study strategy that should always play a role in your exam prep.
Includes 4 of my favourite creative strategies to study with practice questions - for advanced users only!
This is Part 5 of this special 8-part series on "How To Study Effectively" (abbreviated to H2SE in show titles).
If you haven't already listened to Part 1 (broadcast as Episode 66 "How To Study Effectively: 6 Pillars of Student Success"), I recommend you start there before listening to this episode.
* Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. https://examstudyexpert.com
73. From Coasting To Flying: Michael's Student Story
31 Oct 2021
00:30:34
"I have never been a super great academic kid" - the multi-year story of how Michael turned his academic life around.
From failing school to top 1% in the country, studying pure mathematics at University.
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
72. Make Notes? Do This Instead, It's Way Better (H2SE 4/8)
24 Oct 2021
00:14:35
Do you like to write notes?
They’re incredibly popular with students at high school, college, university and just about anywhere else you need to study for exams.
The problem is that note-making or writing summaries are pretty terrible ways to get information into memory.
In this episode, I offer you an upgrade to supercharge your limp old standard note-making technique and turn into a roaring dragon or a powerful study strategy.
Part 4 of this special 8-part series on "How To Study Effectively" (abbreviated to H2SE in show titles). If you haven't already listened to Part 1 (broadcast as Episode 66 "How To Study Effectively: 6 Pillars of Student Success"), I recommend you start there before listening to this episode.
* Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. https://examstudyexpert.com
71. Studying Smarter & Acing Exams: Divine's Student Story
17 Oct 2021
00:20:53
The Exam Study Expert student stories series: showing you how real students achieve real success in real exams using the strategies we teach on the podcast.
Today, meet finance professional Divine from the Bahamas, who used the flashcards study strategy to devastating effect to achieve a spectacular 95% in her accounting exams, putting her in the top 1% / 2% of candidates.
All the more impressive given she was fitting her studies around a busy day job and looking after a family - tune in to find out how she did it!
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
70. Flashcard Masterclass (My Favourite Study Technique!) - H2SE 3/8
10 Oct 2021
00:27:36
I LOVE studying with flashcards.
Used well, they’re astonishingly effective, especially for very knowledge-dense subjects like medicine or science.
But using them well is not trivial: today, I break down my 14 top "DOs and DONTs" for becoming a flashcard wizard - and mastering your memory!
Part 3 of this special 8-part series on "How To Study Effectively" (abbreviated to H2SE in show titles). If you haven't already listened to Part 1 (broadcast as Episode 66 "How To Study Effectively: 6 Pillars of Student Success"), I recommend you start there before listening to this episode.
* Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. https://examstudyexpert.com
69. "Ready For Change": Rose's Student Story (Pt 1)
03 Oct 2021
00:37:29
Our student stories series: a dose of inspiration plus actionable tips from those who've turned their academic fortunes around, overcome obstacles and achieved success in difficult circumstances.
Today, discover how Australian high schooler Rose started to win in maths using the power of mindset and study strategies like memory journaling.
Rose's attitude and maturity when it comes to self-improvement deeply impressed me - listen in, and take notes!
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
68. Powerful Learning With The Blank Paper Technique (H2SE 2/8)
27 Sep 2021
00:13:45
This week, perhaps the simplest study strategy of all: how to use blank page retrieval to memorise lots of information, fast.
Discover blank page retrieval ("brain dumps"), plus my signature Memory Journalling strategy which is built around blank page retrieval.
Part 2 of this special 8-part series on "How To Study Effectively" (abbreviated to H2SE in show titles). If you haven't already listened to Part 1 (broadcast as Episode 66 "How To Study Effectively: 6 Pillars of Student Success"), I recommend you start there before listening to this episode.
* Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. https://examstudyexpert.com
67. Giving Up; Growing; Graduating: Katie's Student Story
19 Sep 2021
00:36:03
Today, we meet maths graduate Katie, who tells her student story. Discover how a high-flying high-schooler found success at University, after initially pulling out of her course.
Today's lessons include:
Not being too competitive (see also Episode 43 with Dr Erika Patall on study motivation)
How to persevere and "trust the process" in maths (see also Episode 4 with Joachim Cassel)
The power of good study strategies combined with the right mindset (see also episode 42 with Prof. Tim Wilson on the stories we tell ourselves)
Rebel Entrepreneur Podcast with Katie's husband Alan (as mentioned in today's show): https://www.alandonegan.com/podcast [a personal favourite!]
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
66. How To Study Effectively: 6 Pillars of Student Success
12 Sep 2021
01:00:38
New to the podcast? Start here! An overview of all the most important things I'd want you to know about studying effectively for exams:
Prioritisation: "Know Where You’re Going"
Mindset: "Know You Can Get There"
Routine / Time Management: "Make Time For The Journey"
Focus / Concentration: "Eyes On The Road When Driving"
Learn Faster: With The Power Of Retrieval Practice
Remember For Longer: With Spaced Learning (Reptition)
This episode is the first part in a very special 8-part audio course on "How To Study Effectively" (look out for the "H2SE" abbreviation in show titles for the rest of the series).
It will be being broadcast every 2 weeks right here on the Exam Study Expert podcast.
* Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. https://examstudyexpert.com
192. Academic Writing Masterclass: Better, Faster, Clearer - with Dr Alix Hibble
01 Jun 2025
00:48:33
Join the University of Oxford's Lecturer in Study Skills Dr Alix Hibble for a next-level masterclass on the academic writing process.
Discover how you can save considerable time AND produce significantly better end results with a better strategy for reading, researching, outlining and writing your essays and dissertations.
A must-listen for anyone with any kind of writing to do as part of their academic journey.
Enquire about academic writing coaching with Dr Alix at:
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
BOOK 1:1 COACHING to supercharge your exam success: https://examstudyexpert.com/workwithme/
Get a copy of Outsmart Your Exams, my award-winning exam technique book, at https://geni.us/exams
*
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books.
65. 4 Regrets / 4 Wins: What I Got Right & Wrong At Cambridge
05 Sep 2021
00:32:03
In this episode, I share lessons from the 8 biggest "turning point" moments from my time as a student at Cambridge:
The 4 things I got RIGHT in my student days (either through good planning - or good luck!) - the factors that contributed most strongly to graduating with a top degree (First Class Hons) from a notoriously tough course.
The 4 things I wish I'd done differently! Knowing what I know now as a psychologist and study coach, these are the things I wish I'd done better, which could have meant a MUCH easier, less stressful and happier ride!
Lessons for YOU throughout, so you don't make the same mistakes as me ;-)
Enjoy!
*
Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.
REWIND: Kendra Adachi on “Lazy Genius”-ing Student Life
22 Aug 2021
00:36:12
Originally broadcast as Episode 27. A "Lazy Genius" Guide To Student Life with Kendra Adachi in September 2020.
Rebroadcast August 2021 as part of our "Summer Rewind" season.
* * *
NY Times bestseller Kendra Adachi is here to talk us through how we can be a "lazy geniuses" about student life: being "genius" about what matters and "lazy" about everything else.
We talk about the secrets to great foundations for life as a student, covering everything from cooking to making friends, organising your schedule, and even how to get your laundry done in record time!
Kendra's bestselling book The Lazy Genius Way is available from all good book retailers worldwide - click here to get your copy on Amazon: https://geni.us/lazygenius*
Hear more from Kendra on the Lazy Genius Way podcast
Hosted by William Wadsworth, Founder & Learning Scientist at Exam Study Expert
“Memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.”
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books. You pay nothing extra. I make these recommendations based on extensive personal experience and because I think they are genuinely helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions I receive.
REWIND: Dr Adam Putnam on Mnemonics & Getting Things Done
08 Aug 2021
00:44:20
In this episode, we’re delighted to welcome Dr Adam Putnam, who is an assistant professor at Furman University, to share his fascinating insights about:
- Mnemonic techniques: widely misunderstood but can be powerful tools - Retrieval practice, and how to implement it effectively - A psychologist’s perspective on the art of focus and productivity.
*
Links and resources mentioned in this episode include:
Adam recommended a couple of great books in this episode if you're interested in the art of working more productively, or learning more about mnemonic techniques:
For the committed mnemonicist (yes, I'm pretty sure I made that word up) wanting to learn the major system, Wikipedia has a pretty decent overview to get you started. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mnemonic_major_system
Download Exam Study Expert’s guide to using learning science to learn faster and remember more than ever before, at https://examstudyexpert.com/freetips
*
ABOUT YOUR HOST: William Wadsworth, Founder & Learning Scientist at Exam Study Expert
“Memory psychologist, independent researcher and study skills coach. I help ambitious students to study smarter, not harder, so they can ace their exams with less work and less stress.”
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on suggested books. You pay nothing extra. I make these recommendations based on extensive personal experience and because I think they are genuinely helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions I receive.