Four Tips to Academic Success

I can do all things...Phil 4:13

Four Tips for Academic Success

Thousands of students begin the arduous tasks every year of doing homework, studying for tests and taking tests (including standardized tests). Teachers also have their work cut out for them as well with the responsibility of aiding young minds to learn a plethora of material from art to zoology.

Regardless of the tasks at hand, here are four quick tips to place students on the path to academic success:

Reading – It is helpful to preview textbook lessons/chapters before reading through them. By reading the introductions to chapters, chapter headings and sub-headings, and chapter summaries students can construct a mental map of the content, complete with guideposts to some of the most important points.

Taking Notes – Learn how to focus on the most important points in a lecture or textbook lesson. Taking notes on the above mentioned areas maximizes the value of homework. Also, pay special attention to verbal cues from teachers/instructors for important information (e.g. “This is important because…”) or if they write it on the chalkboard.

Study Schedule – Establish a routine and stick with it, especially for those who are involved in extra-curricular activities. Set aside a time and place (without distractions) for studying everyday of the week. This requires self-discipline and is important to get into the study habit and the right frame of mind.

Test Taking – By committing to the above strategies on a daily basis, students will minimize the “pain and agony” of test day. Get a good night’s sleep (7-8 hours) and have a good breakfast – not heavy – the day of the test. Prior to test day ask the teacher/instructor for clarification on unclear material.

These four simple strategies can catapult students into a realm of academic bliss. It will, however, take a serious commitment to academic success. I guarantee that once positive results begin to manifest, students will not want to “break” the routine. Parents and teachers will also be pleasantly surprised.

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Herm Allen is an Academic & Career Coach residing in Clemson, SC. He has worked with students for over 15 years as a student development coordinator, career counselor, tutor coordinator and academic advisor. Herm has also taught career and study skills courses at the college level. He can be reached at herm@hermallencoaching.net. ^©2006 Herm Allen