The method of studying may be unique to each individual, but whether you are a student majoring in premedicine, rhetoric, law, business or whatever, a consistent system of studying is vital. Throughout this website, many tips have been provided for assisting individuals to take control not only of their education, but their life. The step-by-step procedures as follows has assisted many students to achieve top academic performance. Refer to this page frequently to see if you are on target.
- Select a mix of classes according to your strengths and weaknesses the first semester.
- Determine what is your most-alert time of the day and schedule difficult classes in those hours when possible.
- The syllabus is the first step to understanding the purpose and goals of the class. Read it and key word highlight it. When you get confused with assignments, refer to the syllabus to get the whole picture.
- Take all syllabi and record on Semester on a Page the dates of exams/papers due for each class including finals or pick up a hard copy at Bishop Wellness Center.
- Again, take each syllabi and record on a separate page the exam and its point value.
- For the third time, go to "The Student Handbook" Learning Resources section and read the information on Time Management. Download additional copies of the Time Management Record. For one week, keep track of what you do every day under the column "Actual". Next week, "Plan" what you are going to do including studying and write what you actually did. Continue this program until your study habits have become just that-a habit!
- Read assignments BEFORE you attend class using effective highlighting.
- Remember, retention comes from repetition. Start reviewing for exams day 1 by following suggestions in Techniques to Improve Concentration, Test Taking Skills and Tips to Improve Memory.
- Your first test is over and you didn't do as well as expected. Do an error analysis of the exam:
- Did I make the same mistake repeatedly?
- If it was a mathematics exam, did I forget signs or write them wrong?
- Did I miss the questions because I didn't know the material or misread it?
- Did I run out of time?
- At any point, there is help. However, if you have faithfully followed these guidelines and continue not to do so well, get help immediately.
This entire web site is about helping yourself and constantly tells you where there is additional help. It is yours only for the asking. Again, some of the many resources are faculty, academic advisors, Writing Center, Language Center, Community Mentors, upperclassmen, department offices and don't forget your roommate. He or she may have already needed and received assistance but was reluctant to discuss it with you.