by Peder Thompson

Created on: November 23, 2008

"I just want to pass my classes," you may be thinking. That is a fine goal, but the attitude could use some improvement. Whether you are a first time student or a veteran of 4 years, improving study habits can be a constant battle between you, as a student, and your classes.

Especially as a freshman, it is important to start right off with good study habits. Following are a few tips that you can do in order to become a more successful student. Beyond than improving your grades, you may also come to realize that much more than a grade can be acquired from your classes!

Attitude:
Don't scoff at attitude! Your attitude towards classes and homework can have much more of an affect than you might think. Instead of dreading your homework every night, try giving it a chance and you might find you actually enjoy some of it (crazy, I know!) Becoming involved in your classes will help your grades, show your professors you care, and make your life more bearable.

Location:
Find the right spot to study. Depending on your personality, this may be in a room full of people, out at a coffee shop, in your dorm room, or secluded in the library. Until you find somewhere you can concentrate on your work, away from distractions (people are fine as long as they do not draw your attention away from your assignments), try out a few different locations to find the best one.

Plan Ahead:
I know you have been told this many times, and you're sick of hearing it I'm sure. But it's just too important to leave off my list. Invest in a planner; usually for less than $5 you can find a daily planner book. At the beginning of the semester, sit down with a hot cup of coffee (or tea) and spend 30 minutes going through each class's syllabus and jotting down quiz, test, and paper due dates. It will help immensely if you remember to look in it from time to time!

Breaks, Coffee, & Sleep:
It is important to note that coffee is not a substitute for sleep. However, coffee, tea, snacks, or something that you enjoy often helps to get yourself through a long study session. Water and apples can also be great mid-study moral boosters. Setting a time to take a break when you sit down to study can give you something to look forward to. A walk outside in the fresh air or a short chat with friends can revive your mind so you are ready again for another leg of studying.

Making studying a priority in your daily schedule will make long-lasting changes both in your grades as well as your mental and physical health. Teach yourself to no longer dread that Psychology textbook, but to consider it a challenge, or at the very least, mildly amusing. You too can become an expert student

Learn more about this author, Peder Thompson.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.