Study Habits

A frequent question that students often ask is, “How do I prepare for the test?” The foremost response is that the most effective aspect of preparing for a test is to attend class on a regular basis. Through your tuition dollars, you have reserved a seat in this class solely for your use – why not take advantage of it! Although the instructor may not take attendance at every class meeting, significant information is communicated at that time. Lectures will supplement material in the text, introduce important concepts, and highlight new course developments. If you miss a lecture, you should make an effort to get notes from another student. Although the copy shop class notes provide the student with a basic outline, it is still your responsibility to add to these by taking notes during lectures.

 To properly prepare for a test, you should read the assigned materials at least three times utilizing the following format. First skim prior to the class meeting (and doing the weekly field project), but do not underline, highlight, or takes notes yet. Instead, start by reading the learning objectives that appear at the front of each chapter. This will familiarize you with the major themes so that the upcoming lecture makes sense to you. You should also bring your book to class since we will often discuss the contents of figures, tables, and charts.

The second reading should be more intense and be completed right after the lecture, Now you may find it helpful to underline or highlight terms, important points, major contributions, and significant phrases.

 Once the class has finished a chapter, it is time to start a review that consists of three separate phases. 1) On a piece of paper, list all the names of individuals that appear within a chapter and write down a brief description of each. Next, turn to that portion of the book where the name is introduced and compare your response with what appears in the text. If you are unable to recall this information, review that section of the chapter. 2) Construct a chapter outline using headings and subheadings. You will know whether you have mastered the information, if you are able to explain what each section contains and how it meshes with the rest of the chapter. Finally, go over the class outline and your lecture notes for each chapter. If you understand these points, you have a firm grip on this material.

 The third reading the course materials should come when you begin your actual preparation for an upcoming test. Browse through your class and lecture notes and the book. Then go back and review the information that you assembled after finishing each chapter. According to authors that write on learning methods, following these techniques should eliminate any last minute cramming and enhance what you derive from the course.