By removing all distractions, you create an environment that is conducive to learning. How you study is as important as where you study. Use a highlighter to highlight anything important in your notes and textbooks. Read through all notes and syllabi. I have found flashcards with formulas and notes written on them to be particularly helpful.
Mnemonic devices are also very helpful.
Mnemonic devices are memory assisting techniques that help us associate something new with something familiar. Also, breaking things up into small tasks makes them much more bearable. While studying is important, it is equally important to take breaks so that your mind does not get overwhelmed with all of the information that it is processing. After beating up on your mind, take some time to relax. Spend some time with your friends doing things that are completely unrelated to schoolwork.