Lakeland College
P.O. Box 359
Sheboygan, WI 53082-0359

How can I study effectively in a short amount of time?

• Focus on the key points of the information and skim the details.  If there's time, review the details again after you're done with all the main points.

• The important information or main points in a text will be found in the topic headings and in the first and last sentences in the paragraphs.  If you only have a small amount of time, be sure to study these.

• Have someone quiz you.

• It helps to review things out loud.

• Write out flashcards.  Study them during spare minutes throughout your day.

How can I become a better test taker and avoid the fear of tests?

• Review your notes after class everyday.

• Create practice tests for yourself with the material covered in class.

• Be prepared and study.  Confidence in taking a test will come with your confidence in the material.  Take a few deep breaths before the test and know that one test does not decide the rest of your life.

• Get plenty of rest the night before and eat before the test.

• Do the homework.  If the homework is difficult or you find material over your head, get help before the test.

Are notes effective when studying?

• Absolutely: they are what your teacher thinks are the most important facts

• If you read your notes within a few hours of taking them, they make a lot more sense when you look at them later.

• Taking notes helps reinforce the main points.

• Notes are often more valuable than the textbook, so make sure your notes are neat and legible.  Highlighting also helps.

• Yes, notes are effective.  Make sure to highlight key concepts and terms.  Take the notes from class and translate them into your own words so you can understand and explain concepts.

How can I make studying less stressful, more relaxing, and even fun?

• Don't cram!!! Instead, study a little each night.

• Use flashcards and a friend.

• Class attendance will relieve stress.  When you attend class, do the assignments and take good notes.  Studying will become a lot easier.

• Try to make up games and rhymes to help you remember material more easily.

• Study in groups.

What is the best way to retain and remember material better?

• If you can relate material to things you know, it helps.

• Use different colors of ink to outline and take notes.  This may help you to remember the information by color.

• Try to rewrite your main points in your own words.

• Review material on a regular basis.

• Remember key words.  If you have a list to remember, know how many items are on the list and the first letter of each word.

How do you know how much and what information to study?

• Always study the information the professor has covered in class as well as information you're required to read.

• Study until you feel comfortable with the material and could write an essay about it if asked.

• Study what's on the syllabus.

• Review chapter summaries.

What is the best type of environment and time of day to study?

• Study during a part of the day when you have energy and time to concentrate.  The best environment to study in is one most similar to your classroom--make sure there are no distractions.

• It is different for everyone.  Some people find the brightness of the day to be more suitable, while others find the evening more relaxing.  It is important that the environment is comfortable and quiet.

• Try studying after lunch--when you are full and awake--in a quiet environment.

• Whenever you have free time.

• Right after class if possible.

What is the most effective way to study?

• Reading notes and the book.  (Also, talking to others will help).

• Try studying with one other person.

• With a purpose.  Go into studying with a game plan for what you want to master, so when you are finished you feel like you've accomplished something.

• Look over homework again and re-read notes.

• Have all of your materials with you.  Read chapter summaries and notes.  Focus on the material covered in class and what the instructor says is important.

How can I take notes while listening to what instructors are saying during class?

• Anything that is repeated or written on the board is usually important.

• Put what the instructor says into your own words before writing anything down.

• Have materials ready when class begins and follow along with what the professors say is important material.  Also, you can always ask the professor to slow down or repeat something.  If that doesn't work, then--if permitted-- bring a tape recorder to class, so you can listen and write notes at your own pace.

• You should pay attention to the lecture and try to write down the most important things.  If it works for you, don't look at the teacher, just listen and write down what you consider relevant.

• Use shorthand and abbreviation to take notes.

How can I succeed at Lakeland College through tests and class lectures?

• You must always be an active learner.  Pay attention and participate in class.  Even if you make mistakes, it will help you learn.

• (By looking at it as an opportunity to learn instead of "a lecture").  Keep your mind open to new ideas and concepts.  Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it!

• Be an attentive and aware student.  Don't put too much pressure on yourself.  Instead, set realistic expectations.  Don't focus on grades.  Try to learn as much as you can and just have fun doing it.

• Pay attention, force yourself to be interested, go to class, and most of all, communicate with your professors.

• Pay attention!!! Don't skip, do all of your homework, listen to what professors expect of you, start studying and writing papers early, and see tutors if necessary.