Good study habits prove rewarding when weekly-unit grades are assessed and posted. In developing study habits, time is of the essence and students must set aside time everyday to read assigned chapters while also completing required assignments. Do you wait until the last minute to study or to complete homework? Does the stress loom and cause feelings of hopelessness and disappointment?

Well, it’s okay, because many people need help to develop study skills. These skills are necessary to earn higher grades in the classroom. Keep in mind, study skills take some time to develop and follow. It will not happen overnight. Years ago -- as a student -- I developed the skills needed to earn the grades, and later the degrees needed in my job expertise fields of journalism, business administration and marketing.

There is a check list adapted in each of my courses for students to develop study skills, which includes the following areas:

1. Set aside at least one hour per day to read assigned course unit chapters. Focus on bolded unit concepts within the chapter, while linking personal experience to the concepts.
2. In each unit, students should review the ‘Course Materials,’ within the classroom, which focuses on key terms in multimedia presentations.
3. Don’t wait until the last minute to construct and write assignments. Instead, set time aside daily or every other day to ensure enough time is available to submit the assignment by the deadline.
4. Locate tutoring or learning labs to assist in explaining unit concepts and gain a better understanding of how those concepts may be applied to real world experience.
5. In locating references to support personal experience for assignments, don’t be afraid to contact a librarian to assist in locating the best sources for the particular project at hand.
6. Attend optional class lectures. This is a good time to ask for assignment clarification while maximizing learning potential within a classroom setting.
7. Study and complete assignments in a quiet environment, with little or no interruption. If this is not achievable at home, consider visiting the closest library.
8. Finally, do not be timid in contacting the course instructor if you have questions. The professor is there to help.

As a student, you must be proactive in education and study habits. No one will develop those skills for you. In keeping up to date with required readings and assignment deadlines, students will be much more likely to earn the final grad they are hoping for.