Student Success

Managing your time effectively is one of the most important skills for academic success.

• Create a calendar with all assignment deadlines, quizzes, and exams. Digital calendars such as Outlook or Google Calendar can help keep everything organized.

• Check your calendar daily.

• Prioritize urgent and high-impact assignments.

• Schedule extra time for long-term projects.

• Create a to-do list and complete shorter tasks first before tackling larger projects.

• Set aside specific study time for each course.

• Remove distractions by studying in a quiet, well-lit location free from phones, television, gaming systems, or interruptions.

Video Resource: An End to Procrastination – Archana Murthy (15:55)

Strong study habits lead to better retention and performance.

• Choose a distraction-free environment.

• Follow the 80/20 Rule: spend 80% of your study time learning new material and 20% reviewing.

• Determine the time of day when you study best. Many students find success between 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.

• Take purposeful breaks. For example, after studying for an hour, take a 10–15-minute break before returning refreshed.

Video Resource: How a Student Changed Her Study Habits by Setting Goals & Managing Time – Yana Savitsky (5:08)

Good notes make studying easier and more effective.

• Preview readings before class to identify key ideas.

• Keep notes brief but clear. Highlight key terms, processes, dates, and names.

• Use abbreviations and symbols, then expand on them later when reviewing.

• Pay attention to concepts repeated in lectures—they are often important.

• Record page numbers to reference later.

• Write clearly and neatly.

• Stay organized by using one notebook or digital folder per course.

• Review notes regularly and write down questions for clarification.

Preparing early can reduce stress and improve performance.

• Review notes and readings related to the exam.

• Create flashcards for key terms, dates, processes, and concepts.

• Begin studying several days before the test.

• Ask instructors about the exam format and major topics.

• Complete all assignments related to the tested material.

Video Resource: Test-Taking Strategies – Colleen Brummett (7:20)