What is, scientifically speaking, the best proven study method?

Answer 1

To sit down and actually do it, of course! ^_^

But seriously, um, it varies between people.
Some say do it while listening to music, as that cuts out all excess sound and helps you to concentrate better. Others say just to cram and cram until your done, and some say just leave it to the last minute, as the panic helps you to pay more atteniton and want to finish.

I, personally, would say all of the above.
Don't do too much, don't do too little, and just make sure you're fairly relaxed and not freaking out about how long it's taking or how your grades hang in the balance.

Answer 2

the best study method is the one that works well for you, i think what works best for most people is
read and look over the material
pay attention to what the instructor has mentioned as the important points
be prepared, if in a class, making sure to review and have a basic understanding of the subject before class, so that then you may ask for clarification of points that are confusing
review and memorize the information you feel you need to retain from all the information you have on the subject
make use of all the resources you have, such as the internet, others who are studying the same thing, your instructor if you have one, extra reading material recommended
if you are going to be tested, act like the test is a week before its date, be prepared by then, that will leave you the last week , especially the last couple of days, to review and fine tune your thoughts and understanding

Answer 3

Scientific or not, MY method is to try to understand as best I can - the opposite of memorizing, I mean to say.

Answer 4

The Bell Curve http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Normal_distribution

I especially like its application in the realm of understanding "racial differences" don't forget to read this book http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bell_Curve It gives methodical analysis of different races, and their intelligence levels. A must-read.