Once you have made your decision on which college, university or online college to attend and chosen a major area of study, you will need to develop the study habits that will ensure your successful completion of your degree. We have compiled a Top 10 list to help get you started in the right direction.
Top 10 Study Tips for College:
Time management. While pursuing any type of higher education, time management is key to your success. Create a monthly calendar, daily task lists, and bracket your time according to your schedule each day, ensuring you have ample time to go over assigned materials properly. You will thank yourself come exam time!
Read all assigned materials. While it may be tempting to “skim” through the assigned reading materials, it is important to take the time to read them thoroughly. You are attending college to become a master of a certain skill, and skimming along will not put you at the top of your class/field. If you are not feeling motivated to study properly, squeeze in a short workout to wake up your senses prior to designated study time. Focusing on getting all you can from your coursework will make all the money and time spent earning your degree worth it in the end (and there will be an end!).
Take thorough notes. While you are in class, it may be tempting to daydream once in a while. You can keep yourself focused by taking thorough notes. Notes are also important when you are reviewing assigned materials, and something is not “clicking”, you can review your notes and find out more. Professors use class time to explain in detail the things that students often have questions about, so jot down what they are saying, no matter how uninteresting it may seem at the time.
Organize and share your notes. The point of taking notes and studying is to absorb and retain information from your courses. A great way to achieve this is to keep organized notes that you can share with classmates. If you know someone else will be seeing your notes, you will be careful to make them thorough and organized. Sharing notes helps all parties involved, as some may have strengths in different areas, and you can help each other fill in the blanks!
Complete all assignments and tasks. It is important to complete all assigned coursework, regardless if you deem it unimportant toward your total score. Basic work ethic will go along way with your professors, and is expected of you in the “real world”, so build those skills carefully. You never know when you may need a referral letter from that professor!
Minimize distractions. Do not allow things to distract you while you are in class or studying. If you need to turn off your cell phone or Internet browser to accomplish your daily tasks, do so.
Find an ideal place to study. Sometimes something as simple as finding a quite place that makes you feel relaxed and comfortable is all you need to study successfully. Pinpoint where you feel the most productive, and make it a point to study there.
Join/form a study group. It is always a good idea to join or form a study group, to share ideas and help each other succeed during the length of the course. Having people to call with questions when the professor is not available is great!
Ask for help. Some students feel timid or embarrassed to ask for help. Your professors are there to help you succeed, and asking for help when you feel lost is important. If you are shy, remember that you can always email them with your questions, they will help you in any way they can.
Take care of yourself. Finally, take care of your health. Make sure you are getting proper sleep, and eating a well-balanced diet with exercise to keep your mind sharp and energy levels high.
