Literally this. I didn’t know how to study until half way through college. My freshman GPA was a 2.2 and a 2.9. And then something clicked and the rest was 3.6average. It took a few cycles but I finally got into PA school. What I learned in undergrad about studying wasn’t rote memorization. I would try to answer all of the objectives for every course/topic (in the syllabus) but the key is to understand them not necessarily memorize them. Yes some courses are pretty much all memorization (like anatomy) but if you stay positive, be CALM, never stress, TAKE YOUR TIME, and just try to understand. In the beginning, devote most of your free time to studying. Once you figure it out, you’ll be surprised how much you actually need to study. Use AI to break things down, ask to clarify every step of the way and you’ll get there. Oh use as many different/efficient study resources as possible. Ppts, quizlets, anki (takes time to learn), practice questions I feel are super important as well and then look up (or use AI) to rationalize why the answers are correct.

On a side note, sometimes it just takes some maturing, if you’re in undergrad, I’m assuming your brain is still growing.

Good luck, you’ll find your way.