DO-DO's of Studying

As I have been speaking to students over last few weeks, and hearing some of their challenges with academics, I've decided to post some simple "Do's and Don't s of studying". Take a look at the below and see how they can be implemented in your academic life this school year.

DO’S
1.Prioritize your study time, study the challenging subjects first.
2.Identify when and where you will study, and with whom (if needed).
3.Study continually throughout the semester not just before a test.
4.Study in a clean and organized environment.
5.Keep your notebooks and notes organized; it will help when needing to refer back.
6.Drink plenty of water.
7.Keep your room cool. Warm rooms = sluggishness. Cool rooms = alertness (that’s why movie theatres are so chilly).
8.Study in well lit conditions.
9.Set goals and timetables for your study sessions.
10.Be aggressive and proactive about your study time.
11.Guard and protect your study time, by staying focused.
12.Take a five-minute break every 55 minutes, then resume studying.

DON’Ts
1.Avoid studying in the bed - you WILL eventually fall asleep.
2.Avoid studying while on the phone; let voicemail work for you.“I am studying, please call after…”
3.Turn off the TV; you can’t concentrate on two things. You are not that smart.
4.Turn off all hip-hop/rock/rap music; if anything, use soft classical, slow jazz, or earth tones.
5.Avoid studying after eating greasy or heavy meals.
6.Avoid drinks with caffeine and drinks with a lot of sugar; they will eventually make you sluggish.
7.Avoid studying in high-traffic study areas, so you won’t get distracted
8.Avoid studying with those whom you have a “crush” on or sexually attracted to. I guess you know what will eventually happen.
9.Avoid trying to study while text messaging, chatting on the internet or responding to email.

Excerpts from "Playing your “A” Game : Biblical Principles for Academic Success"
Kantis A. Simmons. © 2005
www.playingyourAgame.com