Podcasts · Education · Kids & Family

Exam Study Expert: ace your exams with the science of learning

William Wadsworth

225 episodes

Don’t work harder, work smarter: how to study effectively and get the grades of your dreams with winning review strategies, killer memory techniques and exam preparation tips you won’t hear anywhere else. Join Cambridge educated psychologist, study techniques researcher, coach and tutor William Wadsworth as we dive into the secrets of academic success.Looking for the grades of your dreams? Want to know the real secrets to preparing for and taking exams? Through a powerful combination of rich personal experience and the very latest learning and memory science, William and his expert guests are here to help. Here's to results day smiles!

Episodes page 1 of 5

  1. Declutter Your Study Life

    · 17 min · Episode 227

    A new school year, university term or exam season is a great opportunity for a fresh start — and that doesn’t just mean buying new stationery. In this episode, we’re doing a spring clean for your study world: clearing…

  2. 226. "Remember, Its Only An Exam": Keeping Your Cool In Exam Season

    · 12 min · Episode 226

    Today I'm share five powerful mental reframes that reduce exam stress and help you perform when pressure is high. We zoom out from perfectionism, comparison, and frustration with the system, so you can revise with…

  3. 225. Handling Exam Pressure: High Performance Secrets With Dr Brian Hite

    · 45 min · Episode 225

    Today, in the lead-up to exam season, we’re diving right into how to perform well in high-stakes, high-pressure situations with expert Dr Brian Hite. And who better to ask about high stakes than a stuntman, former…

  4. 224. "The Easy Button" For Exam Season Success

    · 12 min · Episode 224

    Got a lot on your plate at the moment? Today we're helping you thrive in a demanding exam season with the help of "the easy button": specific moves you can make to take some of the pressure off in the short-term and…

  5. 223. Perfectionism, Self-Compassion and Making Progress - with Dr Tara Cousineau

    · 45 min · Episode 223

    Perfectionism can feel like ambition for many students, but it often fuels anxiety, procrastination, and a harsh inner critic that makes studying harder than it needs to be. We’re joined today by Harvard-trained…

  6. 222. Eating Your Frogs In The Final Weeks Before An Exam

    · 7:04 · Episode 222

    Today, I'm sharing one question that cuts through revision stress and helps you decide what to study next: what kind of learning feels most difficult right now? Tune in to find out why mental resistance is a signal to…

  7. 221. Your Emotional Toolkit for Academic Stress - with Dr Jennifer Veilleux

    · 52 min · Episode 221

    Many of the students and scholars I speak to struggle with stress, anxiety and overwhelming emotions: about exams, assignments, academic pressure or feeling behind. So today we're chatting with Dr Jennifer Veilleux,…

  8. 220. Study Motivation and the U Shaped Curve

    · 14 min · Episode 220

    Everything's a u shaped curve: don't work too hard, but not too little either, for best results. Explore how understanding this "sweet spot" principle can help you find the balance in your study routine, as well as get…

  9. 219. Scoring Top 1% In The State: "Student Story" Case Study with a 300 Day Anki Streak

    · 28 min · Episode 219

    Unlock the secrets behind how a top student in Australia crushed his finals and secured a top 1% score in his state — and learn exactly how you can apply his disciplined strategies to your own exams. Harry's journey…

  10. 218. Hare And Tortoise: The Magic In Consistency

    · 9:02 · Episode 218

    Small can be mighty when it comes to setting the right study goals, especially at first! Learn why consistency is queen, and how a "do-able come rain or shine" study routine is the key to building and maintaining…

  11. 217. Why Learning Fails (and What To Do) - with Alex Quigley

    · 47 min · Episode 217

    What if the fastest way to learn better is to understand why and where learning breaks down? In this episode, I’m joined by leading UK educator and author Alex Quigley to unpack his eight predictable failure points…

  12. 216. Transforming Schools with Learning Science: Inside Two High-Performing UK Schools

    · 44 min · Episode 216

    What if improving results across an entire school came down to a handful of simple learning habits, done well, every day? In this episode we sit down with two headteachers from top-performing UK schools – Andy Green…

  13. 215. Metacognition Toolkit: Ace Your Learning – with Nathan Burns

    · 38 min · Episode 215

    What is metacognition? And how can you use it to plan smarter, reflect on exams and evaluate your daily learning with clarity? We’re joined by Nathan Burns, aka Mr Metacognition, to explore his favourite stackable…

  14. 214. Respect The Exam

    · 9:11 · Episode 214

    Join William for a quick pep talk on showing due respect to the exam you're sitting, with surprising benefits for your motivation, enjoyment of the study process and even your end result. * Hosted by William Wadsworth,…

  15. 213. Overcome Distraction and Lock In: with Colin Corby

    · 31 min · Episode 204

    In this episode, learn how to conquer distraction and build a healthier relationship with technology using quick wins for a digital detox. Our guest is digital detox expert, technologist and TEDx speaker Colin Corby.…

  16. 212. A Smarter Study Break For Focus And Flow

    · 13 min · Episode 212

    In today’s mini episode we’re taking a look at the surprisingly helpful question of what you do on your study breaks. Choosing the right break activities can help you return to work on time, ready to go again, perhaps…

  17. Welcome To The Exam Study Expert Podcast (trailer for new listeners)

    · 1:07 · Trailer

    A short trailer episode for new listeners to get a taste of the show. Questions? Comments? Requests? Or just want to say "thanks" - send me a text message (I read them all!).

  18. 211. Neuroscience Secrets: Attention, Focus and Memory with Dr Sarah McKay

    · 1 h 01 min · Episode 211

    To kick off the new year we’re sitting down with neuroscientist, international speaker and author Dr Sarah McKay to translate decades of neuroscience research into straightforward tactics students can use today for…

  19. 210. Fresh Start Habits For Smarter Study: Every Day, Every Week

    · 11 min · Episode 210

    Today, we're turning good intentions and a long list of things you need to do or should do or would like to do into consistent action! Key ideas today include: • fresh start effect as useful motivation • split goals…

  20. 209. Who Are You Really? On Personality and Flourishing with Professor Brian Little

    · 1 h 00 min · Episode 209

    In this final very special episode to round out 2025, we welcome world-renowned personality expert Professor Brian Little to help us answer the question: who are you really? As one of the great scholars of our time in…

  21. 208. Prioritise And Save Time When Studying

    · 12 min · Episode 208

    Discover the three core ways to prioritise better in your studying, to get through what you need to do in much less time with as little impact as possible on the quality of your output. * Hosted by William Wadsworth,…

  22. 207. 6 Tricks to Build Confidence That Sticks - with Scott Hardiman

    · 37 min · Episode 207

    We’re joined today by Scott Hardiman, a confidence coach who specialises in helping people rebuild their confidence and get their drive back. Scott shares his own relatable and inspiring student story, from bullying…

  23. 206. Time Boxing For Faster Studying

    · 9:53 · Episode 206

    A practical guide to using the time boxing time management strategy to boost focus, sharpen your prioritisation, overcome prioritisation, mitigate perfectionism and ultimately get your work done faster. * Hosted by…

  24. 205. A Hands-On Guide To Zettelkasten Notes: Practical Advice from Expert Bob Doto

    · 58 min · Episode 205

    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…

  25. 204. Introducing: "S.O.C.K. To Do Lists" - My Perfect Planning Protocol for Faster Studying

    · 17 min · Episode 204

    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…

  26. 203. Beating a High Stakes Test: Flashcards, Grit and Time (A Student Story)

    · 32 min · Episode 203

    We're back today for another Student Story: celebrating successfully beating a high-stakes test, and learning all the study techniques that made the difference between pass and fail. Our guest today is veterinary…

  27. 202. Bouncing Forward: From Guyana to Global Pharma, with Perseverance

    · 28 min · Episode 202

    Join us for another episode in our popular Student Stories series, featuring Dr Frank Douglas, a scholar for whom education was pivotal in his life's journey. From his beginnings in Guyana to his work in global pharma…

  28. 201. Let It Go: Study Smarter Through Subtraction

    · 13 min · Episode 201

    Sometimes less just really is more! We're exploring the value knowing when to let things go. We're stopping, dropping, trimming and de-prioritising to make space for the things that matter most. So today, we’ve got…

  29. 200. Friendship Expert Dr Kimberly Horn on Social Connection Science for Scholars

    · 46 min

    Social connections are critical for mental and physical wellbeing, and they significantly impact academic performance. Dr. Kimberly Horne shares evidence-based insights on nurturing friendships even during busy periods…

  30. 199. Zettelkasten "Super" Notes: with Dr Sönke Ahrens

    · 44 min · Episode 199

    Enter Zettelkasten: a powerful and sophisticated note-making system for more advanced users. A secret superpower to help you be more productive, cut procrastination, have more and better insights, and streamline the…

  31. 198. The Stitch in Time: Small Habits for Academic Success

    · 25 min · Episode 198

    We explore five essential habits that can transform your academic performance by taking small, consistent actions throughout your studies rather than cramming at the end. Doing these little things well from the…

  32. [REWIND] Mastering Effective Study: Insights from John Dunlosky (Ep 154 replay)

    · 41 min

    First broadcast as Episode 154, we're revisiting this epic interview with giant of the "science of effective study" world, the great Professor John Dunlosky. In today's must-listen episode, we discover: • Why learning…

  33. 197. Beyond The Exam: Finding Meaning in Work - and where is Charlie now

    · 46 min · Episode 197

    Charlie Colenutt shares his journey from disillusioned lawyer to author, exploring what makes work fulfilling based on interviews with 100 people across diverse professions. You'll learn: •How the most satisfied…

  34. 196. Gratitude Journalling for Students

    · 9:34 · Episode 196

    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…

  35. 195. The Happy Student - with Dr Heather Frederick

    · 40 min · Episode 195

    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…

  36. 194. The Motivated Student - Set The Vision With Steve Gamlin + Find Your Purpose with Ian Chamandy

    · 51 min · Episode 194

    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…

  37. 193. Five Brain Hacks for Higher Exam Scores

    · 26 min · Episode 193

    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…

  38. 192. Academic Writing Masterclass: Better, Faster, Clearer - with Dr Alix Hibble

    · 49 min · Episode 192

    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…

  39. 191. Stop Procrastinating And Finish Your Dissertation/Essay - with Dr Alison Miller

    · 43 min · Episode 191

    Learn how to overcome procrastination when working on large academic projects with today's guest, Dr Alison Miller. https://www.theacademicwritersspace.com/ * Hosted by William Wadsworth, memory psychologist,…

  40. 190. Brain Bootcamp: Find Focus with Magic Meditation Moments - Ann Swanson

    · 39 min · Episode 190

    Meditation has some fantastic benefits for scholars, including: - Wellness benefits: managing stress, nerves, anxiety and more - Productivity benefits: boosting focus and increasing your output each day But it's not…

  41. 189. Maximise Knowledge Retention With Expert Flashcard Training [FMC 4b]

    · 32 min · Episode 189

    Top tips and tricks to get the most out of your flashcard training (testing) time, to accelerate your learning and maximise your knowledge retention. Resources mentioned today: >> Work with me 1-on-1:…

  42. 188. Balancing Making and Testing Your Flashcards [FMC Part 4a]

    · 18 min · Episode 188

    Part 4a the Flashcard Mastery Course. Today: the common trap of making a large set of flashcards without testing them, why we commonly get into this situation, and what to do about it. * Hosted by William Wadsworth,…

  43. 187. Magic Tricks To Make Memorable Flashcards [FMC 3/4]

    · 22 min · Episode 187

    Part 3 of 4 of the Flashcard Mastery Course. Today: Part 3: Advanced Tips & Hacks for Flashcard MAKING - how to get more efficient in your flashcard making process, clever tricks for specific learning challenges.…

  44. 186. Flashcard Fundamentals For Faster Learning [FMC Part 2/4]

    · 27 min · Episode 186

    Part 2 of 4 of the Flashcard Mastery Course. Today: Flashcard Fundamentals - why use them, and the basics of good technique COMING UP: - Part 3: Advanced Tips & Hacks for Flashcard MAKING - how to get more efficient…

  45. 185. The Science of Learning: Flashcard Mastery Course [Part 1 of 4]

    · 27 min · Episode 185

    Welcome to the first in a special four-part audio course on how to learn ultra-effectively by mastering the flashcards, not the only effective study strategy, but my personal favourite and a huge listener favourite…

  46. 184. Why Study Smarter?

    · 21 min · Episode 184

    I'm in philosophical mood today, exploring the big reasons for the Exam Study Expert mission, and exactly what we hope to help you with! Whether you're brand new to the show or a regular listener, I hope you find…

  47. Mini Status Update - What's Happening On The Podcast?

    · 4:44 · Bonus

    For regular listeners, a brief update after a couple of unannounced weeks off-air, what happened, and when we'll be back in action (spoiler alert: v. soon!!). Questions? Comments? Requests? Or just want to say…

  48. 183. High Stakes Exam Success - with Dr Morgan Taylor

    · 30 min · Episode 183

    This week on the show: • Top tips for learning for high stakes exams • Maintaining your sense of self-worth and protecting your mental health • 4 top tips for keeping test-taking nerves at bay • Advice for prospective…

  49. 182. The Neurodiverse Brain At School - with Christopher Wyatt

    · 40 min · Episode 182

    Today, we're talking neurodiversity in education. Whether you're a student with a neurodiverse brain, a parent to one or a teacher to one, today's episode is rich on practical advice to help you navigate the specific…

  50. 181. REWIND: Maximum Concentration: "Attention Professor" Stefan Van der Stigchel

    · 52 min · Episode 181

    How to concentrate on your studies? I’m going to be talking to one of the world’s leading authorities on how to manage your attention, and focus on what really matters to you, Professor Stefan van der Stigchel. We’ll…

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