CCM - County College of Morris

Proper study habits are essential to be a successful college student. Students who study and still struggle academically may need to change their study habits.   Common study problems include not studying enough, not retaining the information, and studying in an unproductive environment. Strengthening study habits will build confidence and help students work more efficiently and improve performance. Learning how to study effectively can improve academic performance and encourage lifelong learning.

Here are a few strategies to help students study smarter:

• Study in the same place all the time, preferably at the school in the library or a study lounge. Avoid studying in the same place you do pleasure reading.
   
• Minimize distractions. Isolate yourself from TV, IPod, cell phone, and online networks.
   
• Be prepared to study, have all your necessary materials ready to go in your study area (highlighters, pens, notebooks, ect.).
   
• Schedule study time in your daily/weekly planner. Make sure you have allotted enough time. Appropriate study time is 2-4 hours per credit hour a week. For example, a three credit course requires 6-12 hours of study a week (per class).
   
• Complete assignments as soon as they are given. Don’t procrastinate!
   
• Repeat what you have learned in three ways (1) read it (2) write it (3) say it out loud.
   
• Practice picking out important sentences while reading.
   
• Utilize your resources. Get to know your instructors and ask questions. If the material is difficult, sign up for tutoring.
   
• Try to mentally answer all questions asked during class, if you don’t know the answer write down the question and review the material.
   
• Don’t study longer than you can concentrate. Try studying for 35-40 minutes, take a short break, and then return to your studies.

Adjusting your study habits takes time and effort. Don’t get frustrated, you won’t learn to study in one day. Stay with it and you will see positive results. Students can attend a Study Skills workshop or make an individual appointment with a Counselor to improve their study skills. For a list of available workshops check the upcoming events.