Last week we offered 6 resolutions students can make to enhance their study practice. Here are 6 more from which to choose that are equality effective, and that if implement will help you to achieve academic success for the results students want.
1. Review notes nightly. It’s not enough to just take notes – they also need to be reviewed – especially in the days leading up to a big exam. Spending 10-15 minutes each night reviewing your notes will keep important details about any subject fresh in your mind and will help make any new information “stick”.
2. Set goals. Even the best students set goals for themselves. If we stopped having goals, there would be nothing to work towards. When you accomplish one goal, reward yourself and set another. Stumped on ideas for academic goals? Consult your teacher, guidance counselor and parents or ask your friends what goals they are setting for themselves.
3. Use your planner. Use your planner to keep track of more than just tests and assignments. Whether you have an appointment with your dentist, coach or guidance counselor, any assignment, deadline or activity related to your life should be noted in your planner.
4. Stay focused. Put electronic devices away. Keep a healthy snack nearby to provide energy. Find a quiet place in your house or study at the library. When you block out distractions, you will find completing homework gets easier – and you’ll be done quicker!
5. Set deadlines. Setting deadlines for yourself is a crucial part of being an active planner. If you know you have a swim meet Thursday, and your project is due Friday, you need to plan to have it completed by Wednesday at the latest. If you teacher does not impose deadlines, you need to do this yourself.
6. Give your best effort. Recognize your challenges and rise above them by making a valiant effort – always. There are always people to help you and resources to aid you achieve your goals and success. Don’t be too hard on yourself. You can take pride in yourself if, at the end of the day, in your heart, you’ve given your best effort.
The New Year presents a good opportunity to renew one’s focus and commitment to oneself! These 6 suggestions, and those offered last week, are many small steps and adjustments students can take that will make a big difference in the academic success. By the end of the school year, you will have great satisfaction knowing that perseverance and commitment got you the the desired results.
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