Why Should I Study?

Good study skills can help you succeed:

  • In school.  Learning how to study can help make you a better student
  • In the future.  Many skills that make you a success in school can also help you succeed on the job.

Your attitude about studying is important.

  • Think positively.
  • Keep your goals in mind.
  • Use your time wisely

Plan your study time each day.

  • Keep a planning notebook to help balance your schedule.  Your time is valuable-use it well.
  • Plan for deadlines.  Don’t leave assignments until the last minute.
  • Do the assignment as soon as possible after class.
  • Break large assignments into several small ones.

Make studying your job.  Do it efficiently.  Here are some tips…

  • Keep regular study hours.
  • Be comfortable (but not too much so).  Have a straight chair and good light (with no glare).
  • Face away from windows and other distractions.
  • Clear off the top of your desk or worktable.
  • Assemble needed materials ahead of time.
  • Keep it quiet.
  • Consider forming or joining a study group.

Taking notes is an important key to success in studying and learning.

  • Don’t try to write everything down.  Listen for key words.
  • Listen for clues such as “the 4 causes were” or “to sum up”.
  • If your class discusses the topic, note any major conclusions.
  • If your teacher emphasizes a point, such as by writing it on the board, put it in your notes.

Develop your own shorthand system.

  • Abbreviate words.
  • Use common symbols.

When taking notes from books or articles…

  • Get the “big picture” first.  Glance through chapter headings, section headings and subheadings.
  • Read summary paragraphs at the end of each section or chapter to get a general idea.
  • Then read the entire chapter, looking for the key points of each paragraph.

How to take notes:  Choose a method that works best for you.  Here are some suggestions…

  • Have a plan.  Show the importance of key information by size or by understanding.
  • Write clearly.
  • Organize facts.
  • Don’t try to write down every word.
  • Use Roman numerals.
  • Date each sheet.

How to write a report

  • Know your subject.
  • Take notes.
  • Think of your main points.
  • Make an outline.
  • Arrange your notes.
  • Write a first draft.
  • Include footnotes.
  • Review and Revise.
  • Check your final draft.
  • Ask someone else to check it too.

Tips For Taking A Test
Before the Test:

  • Consider it a contest (you vs. the test-maker).
  • Try to guess the questions-can you answer them?
  • Review your notes, outlines, note cards, quizzes, etc.
  • Look up points that aren’t clear.

During the Test:

1.  Relax and forget about other people
2.   Read directions carefully.
3.  Look over the whole test first.  Plan how to budget your time.

  • For objective test questions (true/false, multiple choice, etc.)

*Read each question twice before answering.
*Answer the ones you know first.
*Circle the ones you skip and do these last

  • For essay and short-answer questions.

*Cover only the points asked for in the question
*Think before you write

  • Before you turn in your paper, check it carefully, if you have time.  Ask Yourself:

*Did I follow the directions?
*Are there any spelling or grammatical errors?
*Did I answer each question fully?

After the Test:
When the test is returned, read any comments carefully so that you understand any mistakes you made.  Talk with your teacher or instructor if you have any questions.