Scientists, science teachers, and serious students recognize that success in science classes requires consistent practice--including study at home. Whether balancing chemical equations, calculating angular momentum, or memorizing the steps of cell division, students must review material repeatedly to fully understand new ideas--and must practice even more to commit new knowledge to long-term memory and reach mastery (Willingham 2009, Anderson 2000). Unfortunately, many students have never learned how to study. Thus, even motivated students often perceive success in science courses as beyond their reach. If students are to pursue majors and careers in STEM fields, teachers must teach them how to study independently. In this article, the authors describe the characteristics of effective studying and share techniques that have boosted their students' mastery of science content.