Perfecting your Study Habits in College
March 17, 2010 | Anissa
Don't forget to study!
I’m sitting in Intro to Mass Media, counting the minutes until the class is over. Today we’re getting back our exams but I’m not too worried; I studied a bit before the test and finished it early. Finally, my professor hands me back my test with a solemn look on his face. “Keep working at it” he bellows with a shake of the head. At the top of my paper is a big C+. My mouth drops open in shock. I got a C+. How could this happen?!
In college, studying becomes the most important thing that you can do. It’s not enough to just show up to class, getting good grades depend on how much effort you put into learning the material. Here are some tips on study habits, and making sure that your next exam grade isn’t a C+.
In high school, I was always a straight A student. I don’t mean to brag, but I’m good at school, and I had pretty much discovered the formula to doing well. In high school, the answers were basically handed to you and as a student my main job was to listen and internalize information. In high school, teachers distributed information in numerous forms; PowerPoint’s, handouts, group discussions, and notes.
Unfortunately, college is nothing like this. Learning in college is a much more active process, and professors aren’t going to spoon-feed you the information you need to know. In college, it’s up to you to take notes during lectures, and then study those notes in order to prepare for the tests. In college your GPA does matter, and it completely depends on the grades that you get.
So, in order to get the grades that you need try and create a study routine. This means that for each class you have, you know the set amount of time that you need to study for it. For harder classes, set aside more time. It also helps to have study partners that will study with you. Study partners not only allow you too meet the people in your class, but also ensure that when you do study you make the most of your time. Be wary of who you choose as a study partner though; don’t allow them to be a distraction.
Study habits have to be personal in order to work out. Know how much time it will take for you to internalize the material and do well on your next exam. I know that I have to study more (and study harder) for my next Mass Media exam if I want to do better than a C+. For more tips on study habits and the best way to study, check out academictips.org. The site gives excellent advice about note taking skills, and time management options that are sure to help you prepare for your next exam.
