Attendance & Prep

• Attend every class and be on time. This is the number one factor in student success in college. When you miss class, you miss lecture notes, class discussions, homework explanations, assignments, quizzes, and tests.
• Be prepared for each class. Complete assignments before class. Lectures will be easier to follow, and you will better understand class discussions. Be an active listener. Do not be afraid to ask questions! If you have a question, chances are 90% of the class has the same question.
• Sit in the front of the class when possible. Research shows that sitting in the front of the class is directly related to higher grades. It is easier to see the board and to ask questions.

Lecture & Notes

• Bring your book to class if the lecture follows the text. This can help you stay focused. You can also add notes in your book as to what is important during the lecture. This will help in studying for tests later.
• Use a system for taking notes (see Note-Taking Skills). If your instructor uses slideshow presentations and posts them online, print them up before class; you can add information to them in class.
• Listen for cue words or phrases like, "This is important," or "This may be on the test," or "To summarize..." All instructors give clues to what is important and what may be on tests. They may repeat the information more than once. They may pause before giving information to make sure everyone is listening. These are cues that the material is important and will probably be on the test.
• After class, spend 5-15 minutes going over notes as soon as possible. Clarify, summarize, and think about the major concepts that you learned. Mark information that you think may be on a quiz or test.

Instructors & Peers

• Communicate with your instructors. Instructors should give you their contact info and office hours. Do not hesitate to contact an instructor when you have a question, concern, or problem. Most instructors will be happy to help you. If you get to know your instructors, you'll feel more connected to the class and more motivated to do the work. And if things get rough, you will have formed a relationship with your instructor and will be able to communicate your needs and circumstances.
• Lean how to adapt to different instructors. Every instructor is different. Part of the college experience is learning how to learn regardless of the instructor's teaching style. You are responsible for your own learning.
• Setup a study group. Get to know your classmates. If you setup a study group, you will help members of the group reinforce what you are studying. You can also compare notes to make sure you did not miss anything. Get a class buddy that you can share notes with, or text if you need to clarify something, or if you miss class.