STUDY TECHNIQUES

1. Set aside a place for study and study only!

• Find a specific place (or places) that you can use for studying (for example, the Kitchen area, vacant classrooms, bedroom at home, etc.)

• Make a place specific to studying. You are trying to build a habit of studying when you are in this place. So, don't use your study space for social conversations, writing letters, daydreaming, etc.

• Insure that your study area has the following:

  • Good lighting

  • · Ventilation

  • · A comfortable chair, but not too comfortable

  • · A desk large enough to spread out your materials

• Insure that your study area does not have the following:

  • a distracting view of other activities that you want to be involved in

  • a telephone

  • a loud stereo

  • a TV

  • a roommate or friend who wants to talk a lot

  • a refrigerator stocked with scrumptious goodies

   

2. Divide your work into small, short-range goals.

• Don't set a goal as vague and large as ... "I am going to spend all day Saturday studying!" You will only set yourself up for failure and discouragement.

• Take the time block that you have scheduled for study and set a reachable study goal.

• Set your goal when you sit down to study but before you begin to work.