To get into any good college, you must have good study skills and habits. These can be developed; anyone can become a good student. The following tips will help you study more efficiently and become a better student.
First, you should develop a study routine. Always try and study at the same place and the same time. The place can be anywhere that you feel comfortable, such as a place at the school, a library, or your room. If you choose your room, as most students do, make it a good environment in which to study. Make sure you have plenty of room to spread out your books and notebooks. Some students will have desks that are way too small. You don’t want to feel cramped. Also, make sure you can concentrate. The room needs to be lit to your liking. Turn off the TV. Listening to the radio is okay for some people as it helps them concentrate. For others, it is too much of a distraction.
Try and make time to study each day and try to do it at the same time every day. This will help you get into a routine and focus better. The best time to study varies from person to person. Some people study well in the afternoon, right after school. Some students need a break after classes and do better at night. You will know which person you are. The point is to choose a time and stick with it. There is also the matter of which subjects to study first. This also depends on the individual. You may like to study the easiest subject first, and then move on to the more difficult work. Or, perhaps you like to get the tough stuff out of the way first. If you do not know which type of person you are, try out each method. Once again, choose one and stick with it. Routine, routine, routine. It is the habit of the successful student. Note-taking is also a skill that can be learned. The most effective way to take notes in class is to do so in outline form. You do not have to write down everything the teacher says. Most of the time, teachers will present their material in outline form already, making note-taking much easier. However, if there is something very important to remember, such as when a teacher makes a point to repeat himself or herself, then that can be taken down word-for-word. It is also effective to use some type of shorthand or abbreviations. Any kind will do, as long as you can understand what you wrote when you review it later.
When it comes to long assignments or projects, it is important not to wait until the last minute. It seems like a no-brainer, but many students will still do this. When you get the assignment, make a schedule. Figure out how much work you need to do and how much time you have to do it. Then, split up the work evenly so you can do a little each day. The same goes for tests. Cramming the night before rarely yields positive results. The best thing you can do is space out your studying and get enough sleep the night before.
Implementing these tips should help you become a better student and achieve better grades. Not only will this help you get into a good college, but you should be better prepared to succeed when you get there.