Read, Read, and then, Read Some More!

Read any assignments provided, and most importantly, read that syllabus! It´s given out for a purpose. If you have time to read leisurely, do so! Just the familiarity with texts will help improve your grammar, spelling, and communication skills.

Study Groups

Take advantage of study groups. The interaction allows you to share your knowledge with others and others to share their knowledge with you.

Be Careful of Plagiarism

Stay alert in your writing and do not plagiarize. Sometimes you may read something and then unintentionally include it almost verbatim in a written report. These kinds of things happen, but try to prevent this by always citing your sources. Your professor will usually tell you which citation style to use. Professors know the tricks, and should you be reported, you can kiss your college career goodbye.

Know Your Study Style

Sometimes, studying in groups is good. Sometimes, group studying just leads to problems and distractions. Know when to study alone, and when to work with study groups that can stay focused and are productive.

Listen for Cues

Professors will be sure to emphasize what is most important for you to remember and write down. Get to know your professor´s lecture styles and listen in for those ever-important cues. Some professors will outright say, "This will be on the exam."

Have Fun!

As good as it is to remain totally dedicated to your college career, remember that having a little fun goes a long way in increasing your productivity. Giving yourself a reward to look forward to ("I´ll go to this weekend´s party if I study 50 hours.") makes the grind all the more bearable.

A Note on Taking Notes

This may sound elementary, but LISTEN to your professors. It may be very tempting to write a transcription of your professor´s lecture, but what you may end up with is a bunch of unreadable scrawlings that rival a novel in length. Pay attention to what the professor says, and jot down key points.

Always Attend the Class Before the Test

Some professors will give out their best tips, secrets, and hints during the class before your exam. Make sure you are there to take it all down. This is also a great time to ask any last minute questions.

Schedule Classes Carefully

If you are not a morning person and don´t think you can make it through a morning calculus class, don´t depend on caffeine to get you through. Know your limits and your abilities. Similarly, if you´re afraid of walking to your car in a dark parking lot or get really sleepy after dinner, don´t schedule a night class.

Make at Least One Studious Friend

Just like having a aerobics buddy is good to keep you exercising, having a study buddy is good to have someone to quiz you past midnight at the local Denny´s, or keeping on your butt to drop the beer and try to get back on the word processor. If you´re not the disciplined type, at least make friends with one. The best thing that can happen is either that that person´s good habits will rub off in some fashion, or you´ll look at that person and feel so guilty about your laziness that you´ll get something done.

Research the Professor

Research the professor as well as the course. Many universities have a lot of flexibility when it comes to electives or when you can take a course. Take the time to find out who is teaching the course before you take it. Ask friends who know the professor and also go to the student union office where they can often give you the information you need. If you are already enrolled in a class with a professor who has a bad reputation, consider dropping the class and retaking it when it is taught by a professor whom you will enjoy.

Use Your Highlighter Wisely

Highlighting every word except for "but," "and," and "the," will not improve your reading or help you understand the material. Highlight the most important ideas. Also, make sure to highlight any bold words that may have been discussed in class.

Don´t Be Afraid to Drop a Class

Knowing your limits involves knowing whether a class or a schedule is too overwhelming for you. If the class you are in is required, then try it again with a different professor. Different teaching styles work with different students. Don´t overuse this option, but know that it is there for you. Remember to check with your advisor and/or financial aid department before you drop a class to make sure you are still within your scholarship or student loan requirements.

Advisors- Always Get a Second Opinion

While they are a useful resource, academic advisors will sometimes communicate things that aren´t accurate. My advisor, for instance, told me that it would be perfectly fine to take an Art History II class before an Art History I class, but on the first day I was completely lost. I asked my professor why my advisor would think it was fine for me to take this class. He said due to "miscommunications" between departments, advisors can make these mistakes. Just be a little wary of singular advice and don´t be afraid to ask more than one person the same questions.

Take What You´re Interested In

You will do much better in classes where you already have a strong interest or passion. Not only are you more likely to stay awake, but your interest will most likely make it easier for you to translate your skills (and yes, all classes will teach you, directly or indirectly, basic skills) into a career in the future.

Office Hours

Take advantage of your instructors´ office hours. The one-on-one discussions will give you an opportunity to have questions answered that were unanswered in class.

Don´t Skip Class

Aside from the fact that you´re paying for it, showing up for class will give you an immediate advantage in learning what your professors think are important, and what is most likely to show up on those final exams. Class is also where you get the chance to meet new people.

Don´t Just Cram for the Big Exam!!!

Procrastination leads to late nights, headaches, and poor grades. Instead study a little each night before you have a big exam or test. Studies show that you retain more information while studying like this.

Student Unions

Take advantage of student resources that may be available at the university or college that you are attending. In addition to a general student union office, faculties may have their own student union office where you can get information on course content, past exams, or even tutors to help you with current classes. There is no charge for the information and the information can be extremely invaluable. Plus, you may be able to take advantage of scholarship opportunities as a student union member.

Explore the Wonderful World of the Library

Every library has its little quirks and amazing traits that make it worth a visit. Some will provide you with Internet access, copy machines, laser jet printers, and even personal study