Far too many college students are struggling with their classes lately. The list of reasons why ranges from mean professors to far too much partying. The real reason, however, is students lack the necessary study skills to succeed at the college level. Every student has their own unique learning style which needs to be optimized in order for it to “stick”.
Compare two students trying to learn the metric table, as an example. One possesses the ability to quickly and naturally grasp the importance of good study skills and is able to comprehend metric conversion and the metric conversion calculator. While the other lags behind in their metric conversion table coursework, facing challenges and struggling because they don’t know were to start. Students need to get their minds focused on learning a new piece of information on the metric table every day in order to properly learn it.
A college student must realize that good metric calculator and metric conversion study skills begin with their level of attitude and enthusiasm for learning. The student with good study habits understands it takes time to memorize the metric conversion calculator. Studying the metric calculator for a few minutes here and there will not lead to success. Here are my seven ways to better your study skills:
- As you are read assigned text, write and keep notes on important points. Review these notes daily.
- Studies show that using 3 x 5 cards to review important terms improves your memory on studied material.
- Create study activities that you will perform every week. Take time for a weekly session where you write down important facts on a sheet of paper using only your memory.
- Start a study skills lesson plan for each subject. These lesson plans should include test taking ideas that you can use for each class.
- Never let test anxiety creep into your thoughts. Try to spend more time preparing for each test to relieve some of that anxiety.
- The most helpful study resource is your professor or tutor. Never be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
- Take notes on important facts and review them the morning of your test. If you studying a math or science course, write out all of the important formulas on one sheet of paper and review these formulas the morning of your next test.
Finally, the best way to pass that difficult math test and ace knowing the metric conversion table is to maintain a positive attitude. Never let your negative feelings get in your way. If you go into that big test expecting to do great, there is a good chance you will do great. Belief in failure only leads to failure. Developing new study skills each day and following through leads to a successful learning strategy and better grades.
About The Author
Anne Harvester is a homemaker extraordinaire residing in Denver, Colorado with a Master’s in Education and years of experience creating spectacular events and gifts.