 Valerie J. Reidy, Principal
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Study Skills
Improved Study Habits Pay Off In Better GradesQ: In spite of studying very hard, I earned no more than a 75 or 80 in any of my courses. Granted some of the courses were tough, but with all the time I spent in the library, why wasn't my grade higher?
A: You need to understand the amount of time spent on a task has little to do with the quality of your study habits. One student can read and comprehend an assignment in two hours, while another student might need four hours to accomplish the same task. In your case, you will need to develop new strategies for improving your grades besides simply using a watch to gauge progress. Here is how to do it.
- Create a time-management scheme by first establishing a schedule of weekly activities, including your major time commitments: classes, part-time job and study hours.
- Buy a large wall calendar and note all your commitments for the semester, including exam dates and vacations. The idea is to make more effective use of your time and avoid simply spending an even amount of time on each assignment. For example, if you have a test on Tuesday, you might need to spend all your study time on Monday preparing for the test.
- Make efficient use of the library. Learn how to use it and where to find resources needed for assignments, such as reference materials and periodicals.
- Think both in long and short term. If you're having a problem motivating yourself to study, reexamine your reasons for being in a Specialized High School. Seek the help and advice of other students who are doing well, your teachers, or your guidance counselor.
- Find out what academic and guidance services exist and take advantage of them.
- Avoid scheduling marathon study sessions. Your mind can only absorb so much at one time. Shorter study sessions are far more productive. Also avoid studying similar subjects back to back.
- Attend every class and take careful notes. Watch for clues during the lesson. If you hear the instructor repeat an idea several times, chances are that it's important and you had better write it down.
- If you are ill and cannot attend class, ask a classmate to take careful notes for you and follow up with the instructor on any material about which you're uncertain. Stay on top of assignments and reading. Do not put them off. Discuss specific assignments or concerns with your instructor and be sure you know what is expected. You might be surprised how receptive teachers are to your questions.
