8 Chapter 8 Polish My Study Skills
Introduction
“Study, study, study. This may seem obvious, but studying before the exam or a few nights before will not cut it. I suggest you review your notes weeks in advance and learn the best methods that work for you… ”
– Advice from a Communication Sciences and Disorders (COMD) student
Looking back at their experience, many students mention that among the main things they wish they would have known as first-year students were how to study, the amount of studying needed, and advice on effective strategies to manage time and priorities. This section provides some resources related to study skills and time management. For UTRGV student advice on studying, visit “Chapter 12, Advice From Students Who Have Graduated”.
Important Studying Habits
“I suggest having 1-2 friends to study with who are determined to stay on task and review the material with you. It helps to start reviewing and quizzing yourself on the material at the end of every week or even the day after and not wait till a couple of days before the exam(s) to review everything. I usually type out my notes based on my reading from the chapter(s), put together questions and answers based on the outlines or PowerPoints to quiz myself repeatedly during the weeks before the exam(s), and reread the chapter(s) at least one more time after the initial reading… Don’t overwork yourself, take study breaks, manage your studying for each class wisely, and study more than a week in advance.”
– UTRGV College of Health Professions student
Adjusting to the academic workload in college can be difficult for some first-year students. This gets more complicated as students try to balance various demands on their time, including work, family, and friends. In addition, compared to the high school experience, the curriculum is typically more specialized, and the assignments are often more in-depth.
It’s essential to form good study habits for college early on to avoid falling behind when faced with more challenging or time-consuming readings, subject material, and exams. Make these six study habits a part of your routine, and you’ll start your college experience on the right foot.
1. Find a Place to Study Regularly
Consistency is critical in studying, so do your best to make a habit of it! Finding a spot on campus and at home where you feel comfortable and inspired to dive into a successful study session is a good idea.
The environment should be whatever works best for you—whether that means having complete silence, some light background music, or a more lively atmosphere. Please give it some thought and try out a few different spots. The sooner you find the space that works for you, the sooner you can study effectively.
2. Keep Track of Deadlines and Important Dates
You can get ahead of upcoming assignments by checking your calendar weekly (and daily), outlining each deadline in advance, and blocking off time to study. And don’t forget the most rewarding part of keeping a l