Psychology classes can be challenging, especially if students have never studied the topic before.

Heres why good study habits are key to mastering new theories and concepts as a psychology student.

A little planning now can save you a lot of last-minute stress.

Students sitting at table studying together.

Dougal Waters / Digital Vision / Getty Images

There are a few techniques that can help you plan out your study path.

If youre just starting, here are a few evidence-based pointers about studying to keep in mind.

After youve gotten a bit more comfortable with the material, find others who you might study with.

Here are a few tips for cramming:

Stanford Undergrad Academic Advising.What is a unit?.

UC San Diego Department of Psychology.Other learning techniques.

UC San Diego Department of Psychology.How to effectively study.

American Psychological Association.Six research-tested ways to study better.

UC San Diego Department of Psychology.Spaced practice.

Bay Atlantic University.Eight types of learning styles.

2016;39(9):1681-1690. doi:10.5665/sleep.6092