Study Tips

General Study Tips
 

	Establish a routine time to study for each class For every hour you spend in class, you will probably need to spend two hours outside of class. Study for each subject at the same time every day/week and in the same place if possible.
	Studying includes more than just doing your homework You'll need to go over your notes from class- labeling, editing, and making sure you understand them. Look at your syllabus to see where you are going and where you've been. Be sure to do reading assignments and read ahead whenever possible. Prepare for class as if there will be a pop quiz that day.
	Establish a place to study You should have a comfortable place to sit with good lighting, all the supplies you need, and of course, it should be free of distractions. It should not be a place where you routinely do other things.
	Do as much studying in the daytime as you can What takes you an hour to do during the day may take you an hour and a half at night.
	Schedule breaks Take a ten-minute break after each hour of study. If possible, avoid long blocks of time for studying. Spread out several short study sessions during the day.
	Make use of study resources on campus Use the tutors in the 3rd floor of the Mellinger Center, find out about labs, videos, computer programs, and alternative texts. Get to know your professors and other students in the class so you can feel comfortable asking questions.
	Study the hardest subjects first Work on your hardest subjects when you are fresh because putting them off until you're tired compounds the problem.
	Be good to yourself Studying on four hours of sleep and on an empty stomach or a junk-food diet is a waste of time. Avoid food and drinks containing caffeine just before or after studying.

Adapted from Practicing College Study Skills by Carolyn H. Hooper