Effective Study Habits

Learning how to study can be the best investment of your time in terms of preparing to go back to school and/or improving your grades while you are in school. Anyone who truly wants to improve their learning process can do so by following a few basic principles of time management, organization, and prioritization. 

Lets make sure to start the academic career off on the right foot!

Dedicate a specific time and place to study

Deciding on a set place and time to study can make all the difference.  When this is not practiced, students tend to be  more stressed about homework and studying. Having a set time and place to study alleviates all of the stress issues and allows you to focus on the material you need to cover.  

For those who have kids, it may be beneficial for you to set aside a time to study once they are placed in bed for the night.  This may be the most quiet time in your household! Or maybe you can get a sitter in place for a couple of hours to get in the study time. Whether you take your child/children to the sitter or the sitter takes the child/children out on a play date, do what best tailors your need.

Prioritizing your time

There are only so many hours in a day that you can devote to studying.  So it is important that you prioritize your time before starting your studying session.  Most people are more open to difficult material, so why not start with the more difficult tasks first.  As your time starts to bear down on you, when you are getting tired, that is the time you will want to spend on the material that you have a better understanding of.

Do not be afraid to ask for help

During your time in college, everyone runs into a course or two that they struggle with. Whether it is trouble with the instructor being too hard, the math being to advanced or whatever the reason.  Do not let the frustration or fear of failure stop you from getting the help that you need.  Reach out to your instructor and ask for some one on one time.  Check around campus for any school sponsored tutor programs or resources that might be beneficial to you. Chances are, help is within reach if you ask for it!

Do not CRAM for exams 

There will be a time when you may have a late night finishing a paper or working on a project that needs to be completed, but applying the above mentioned techniques on a consistent and steady routine will more than prepare you for quizzes, mid-terms and finals. You should only need to review your notes for the course a few times prior to an exam.  

Do not let life get in the way of your dreams

Work, husbands, wives, kids, significant others, friends and etc...

They can all be a great support system.  But they can also be a big drag on your time, energy, and stamina. Make sure that they know what your priority is and why this is your priority.  Also be sure to explain that you will make any necessary adjustments to your personal life in order to complete your goal.