How to Study Smart

Use positive affirmations: “I can pass American History.” Provide your own psychological edge, be it a positive attitude or a “lucky pen.” Be a chronic enthusiast! Used textbooks may provide insights on a course. Sit in the front row; if you must sit toward the back of the room, lean forward. Attentiveness and concentration increase markedly. Don’t miss the first and last minutes of class.

They are crucial — important announcements, questions on test, etc. Use a variety of study techniques.
a. Tape chapters (find out if your textbook has companion pod cast chapters). Listen on way to school, work. b. Use index cards for quick review. Keep them simple. Throw your highlighter away! Remember: frequent review takes facts from short-term memory to long-term memory — learning as opposed to cramming. Study in short bursts.

(First and last facts are remembered best; therefore, it will accelerate learning.) Review notes immediately after class.
Even for five minutes. Something magical happens!
Review your notes out loud.
Read your chapters out loud.
Appearance raises grades.
Neatness counts. Word processors are a plus. If a handwritte assignment is acceptable, use erasable pen. Don’t waste time rereading.
Rely on “pen in hand” and SQ3R.
Test professors before they test you.
Ask questions about what kind of test to expect, what material will be covered. Become an expert test taker. Go with initial hunches. Stay with initial hunches. Study according to your biological clock. Are you “normal,” a night owl, or an early bird?

Eliminate stress in your life. EXERCISE is the best antidote. Make extra
credit mandatory. Never miss a class. This is considered mandatory by “A” students.
Be prepared to bail out.
Don’t be afraid to drop a course that is not working for you., BUT be aware of all official dates to withdraw and any vital state legislative restrictions ( Texas has a limit on total number of W hours.) Volunteer to edit a friend’s paper.

Use it as a learning experience.
Study smart—not hard! Time management skills and discipline pay off.