Preparing to Study
It is crucial that you find a good place to study. This means a quiet place with a solid, flat surface. You must also try to study at the same time each day. Establish a routine. Make sure you have the following before you begin:
Listening Skills
Being an effective listener is an extremely important characteristic to school success. To be a better listener:
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Before class think about the main points from your last class and review what your assignment was for the class
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Pay attention!!
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Hear what is said, not what you want to hear
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Relate new things to what you already know
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Always write down the assignment your teacher gives you
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Listen for these phrases: "This is important...", "You'll need to know this for the test...", "Write this down..."
Note-taking Tips
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Be prepared to take notes at the beginning of class
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Come to class prepared with pens or pencils, notebooks and all necessary materials
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Be an active participant in classroom discussions
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Listen for what the teacher is emphasizing and write it down
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If something is written on the board, you should probably write it down
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Be alert do not try to write every word - write main ideas, content and information
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Develop your own way of abbreviating words
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Write notes in an outline form
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It is important to go over your notes immediately class several times so you begin to learn and remember everything
Time Management Tips
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establish a regular time and place for study
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use daylight hours to study
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keep a date book and write down all assignments
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take breaks - don't do marathon study sessions
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use flash cards
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form study groups
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schedule your most difficult assignments for when you are most alert
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make a daily checklist
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set priorities
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do the most important tasks first
General Tips
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keep all assignments, handouts, tests, inc.
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always record assignments as they are given
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study the same time everyday
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ask for help as soon as you realize you don't understand something - don't wait!!!
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process information each day - immediately after class or as soon as you get home
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make flash cards
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get a study buddy or form a study group
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take organized notes