HowtoStudy.

com

Table of Contents
About Us
Contact Us

First, Understand that Studying is Not the

Same as Doing Homework
1

Students believe that studying and doing homework are the same thing. However, they
should be approached as two very distinct, separate tasks. Homework commonly consists
of assignments that instructors assign to be completed at home by students. The general
purpose of homework assignments is to reinforce the knowledge that you learn in the
classroom. These assignments allow for extra practice, so that you can refine your skills
and knowledge in a particular area.

Studying, on the other hand, refers to the time students spend on their own to go over
material they learned in class. Many students think of studying as what they do to prepare
for an exam; however, it is best to set aside regular time to study to be sure you
understand all the concepts you are learning in class so you do not fall behind. Studying
includes making flashcards, taking detailed notes, making outlines, and reading.

Learn how to study effectively

While college students are instructed in many disciplines, most are never really taught
how to study in college. As a college student, you should be able to develop effective
study skills so that you can study in a smarter way and be more successful in your
education.
Many students view studying as a daunting task, but if you leverage effective study
methods and tools, you will find studying is less time-consuming and more useful.
Continue reading to discover helpful study tips that will make your study time more
productive.
Tip #1: Choose a quiet place to study It is important that you find a quiet space where
you can do your studies. Find a place that is not distracting to you. For example, if you
are easily distracted you should not study near a television or in a crowded location.
Instead, choose a quiet room, a library, or a bookstore where people study instead of
socialize. Also, while many students choose to listen to music as they study, this can also
be a distraction. Assess your preferences and try different settings to determine what
study environment is ideal for you.
Tip #2: Set a specific time to study Just as you would for any other appointment or
commitment, mark a time in your calendar dedicated exclusively to study time. Choose
specific days and times that work best for you to study, and stick to your commitment. It
is also helpful to create a study timeline, and you will see how to go about this in greater
detail later on. Also, reward yourself with breaks. Grab a cup of coffee or sit back and
close your eyes for a minute if you need to clear your mind.
Tip #3: Make sure you have all the study materials you need Be sure that you have
all the materials you need to study before you begin. Gather any textbooks, notes, and
flash cards you will need to help you study. Also, remember not to bring things to study
that you do not need or that can be distractions. Leave your cell phone behind, or turn it
on silent and place it in a bag. If you are using a computer to study, do not get sidetracked
by social media accounts or games. By bringing only the materials you need, it will be
easier to stay on task.
Tip #4: Keep a positive outlook about studying Many students dread studying,
perhaps because they arent doing it right or they feel it isnt helpful to their success.
Approach your study time with a positive outlook. Even if you are tackling a challenging
subject, staying positive will make your study time less burdensome and will help you
grasp the material. Take all the time you need to learn a topic, and dont beat yourself up

if you are having difficulty with the subject matter. Also, take the time to learn what study
methods suit you best. Youll explore study methods in detail further on and learn
important studying skills that will make it easier to stay positive.
Tip #5: Do not procrastinate You have undoubtedly been warned about
procrastination, but you might not understand the reason why this practice is detrimental.
Not only does waiting until the last minute leave you with less time to study, but it also
puts you in a stressful situation in which it is difficult to recall the material. Although
cramming at the last minute can help you get a slightly higher score on a single test, this
method wont help you retain information for midterms and final exams, let alone for use
in your career after graduation. Also, remember that is it more effective and less daunting
to study for shorter periods of time but more often than to study during one long,
exhausting session.

Using this resource

The goal of this resource is to show you better methods of studying not only so that you
can achieve higher grades, but also so that you retain information and develop strong
work habits that employers are looking for in new graduates. Youll discover some
secrets about how to better manage your stress, how to save time by taking only
meaningful notes, how to create a study plan, and other studying tips that will help you
study smarter and harder. Continue browsing this guide to learn how to study more
effectively as a college student.
Next Chapter
Copyright 20092013 HowtoStudy.com

Home
About Us
Contact Us

HowtoStudy.com

Table of Contents
About Us
Contact Us

Create a Study Plan

2

What is a study plan?

A study plan is an organized schedule that students create that outlines study times and
learning goals. Just like with work or school schedules, college students should develop a
study schedule where they can block off days and times in their calendar dedicated to
studying. Creating a study plan not only helps you become more organized, but it also
holds you accountable for your own learning outcomes. If you are an online student, a
study plan is even more important in your success in college, since you need to have selfdiscipline and determination to complete your studies without the constant reminders of
an instructor.

Why do I need a study plan?

A study plan is an effective way to help you navigate through your college education in
an organized way. Every student will develop a different study plan; there is no correct
study plan for everyone. When creating your personalized study plan, you will need to do
some self-evaluation of your current schedule and time management. Find days when you
have fewer personal commitments when you can squeeze some study time. Remember,
each student studies differently, so the amount of time you need to study will differ from
the time your classmates devote to studying. Some students find that studying nightly for
thirty minutes is more realistic than studying a few times a week for a longer period of
time.
Youll have to identify your learning goals for each study session in order to maximize
these scheduled study times. Determine why you are studying, and develop a plan that
can help you achieve those goals. Take into consideration upcoming tests, your average in
certain courses, and projects that you anticipate will take more time than others.
Lastly, create a study plan that is reasonable. Although you must set aside enough time in
your schedule dedicated to your studies, blocking off five hours with no break will set
you up for failure. You can spend less time studying if you do it correctly. For a detailed
look at how to make a personalized study plan, explore the step-by-step instructions
below.

Use these four steps to create your study plan

Step #1: Create a time chart of your current activities. Creating a time chart will allow
you to see how you spend your time from day to day. For a one-week period, take notes
about your daily activities. Record things like when you are at work, school, or home
with family. Even note when you eat and sleep. Once you have done this for a week, look
for times that you can slip in an hour of dedicated studying. This chart can be helpful for
determining days and times that are consistent each week that you can devote to studying.
Step #2: Develop a schedule Now that you have determined available days and times
for studying, make a mark in your planner or calendar. Use detailed notes to block out
times on your calendar so that you are reminded every time you look at it. It is best to
have a schedule written down so you dont forget. Seeing it written down can make it
seem more important, like a doctors appointment you cannot miss. Also, it is helpful to
write down which subject you plan to study, so you can be sure devote enough time to
each of your classes. For example, Mondays and Thursdays can be set aside for studying
math, while Tuesdays and Fridays can be devoted to English.
Step #3: Determine your study goals At the beginning of each week, determine why
you need to study and what you plan to accomplish in each class. Do you want to raise
your average in a particular class in order to maintain a certain GPA? Are you preparing
for a big exam? For example, if you are studying for an important midterm exam, alter
your study plan two weeks prior to the test to incorporate review of old tests and notes in
your sessions. On the other hand, when you dont have an upcoming test, use your study
time to read ahead one chapter in order to grasp the next lecture. You will need to tailor

your study plan depending on your weekly goals, so be sure to analyze what you plan to
get out of each study session. While it is tempting to skip your study session when there
isnt a test looming over your head, you will reduce your future test preparation time by
reading ahead and preparing for lectures.
Step #4: Stick to your schedule A study plan works best if it is followed on a
consistent basis. You should try to develop a study plan that you can follow for the length
of each semester of college. Since most students enroll in different classes each semester,
you will have to reevaluate your plan and fine-tune it each term. Remember, the most
important thing is sticking to your plan.

Strategize for effective follow-through

One way to ensure you follow through with your plan is to schedule time for other
activities. By achieving a balanced schedule, your mind will be more receptive during
time devoted to studying. If you schedule several long days in a row of studying, you will
get discouraged and will be tempted to give up. It is acceptable, and even recommended,
that you schedule time for nonacademic activities, such as exercise, hobbies, and
socializing with other students. When you are studying, remember to take breaks in order
to prevent feeling overwhelmed.
Lastly, some students find it helpful to find a study partner. Studying with a classmate
allows for collaboration and discussion. When creating your study plan, check with other
students in your class to determine if you can coordinate study sessions. However, if you
tend to socialize more than study when you are around others, stick to an independent
study plan. If you do choose to study with a partner, choose someone with whom you are
likely to stay on task.

Leverage tools for creating a study plan

If keeping a paper and pen schedule is not helpful to you, consider other ways for
keeping your studies on track. Take advantage of study planner apps, like My Study
Planner, available for smart phones and tablets, which can help you manage your study
schedules. Websites like MyStudyLife.com are also helpful, allowing you to create an
account to better organize your study time with to-do lists and calendars.
Previous Chapter
Next Chapter
Copyright 20092013 HowtoStudy.com

Home
About Us
Contact Us

HowtoStudy.com

Table of Contents
About Us
Contact Us

Manage Your Time

3

When it comes to studying, managing your time is of the upmost importance. You should
determine how much time spent studying is enough, which varies from student to student
and from one class to another. Continue reading to discover helpful tips for better
managing your time studying.

How much time should I spend studying?

The amount of time you should spend studying depends on how many classes you are
enrolled in, your personal study habits, and your educational goals. As a general rule of
thumb, most professors suggest that college students spend about two hours studying per
week for each credit hour they take. However, recent studies have shown that most

students only spend one hour studying per credit hourjust half of what is recommended
to be successful. Most college courses are three to four credit hours, so this means that for
each class you should spend about six to eight hours studying. Full-time students should
anticipate spending about 30 hours each week studying. To many students, this can seem
overwhelming, but if you manage your time correctly, your studying will become more
productive and will help you perform better in both traditional and online courses.

Can I study too much?

Yes! Keep in mind that while you should spend the appropriate amount of time studying,
going overboard is counterproductive. Students often mistakenly think that if they spend
an excessive amount of time studying they will be better prepared. Long study sessions
often become boring, and when your mind starts to wander, this study time is wasted.
Spending an entire day cramming before a big exam is not the way to go. Learn how long
you tend to concentrate on different subjects so that you can schedule focused, effective
study sessions.

How to manage your time effectively

In addition to assessing your ability to concentrate on certain tasks, youll need to learn
how to balance your personal life with your schoolwork. While college students devote a
significant amount of their time to attending class and studying outside the classroom,
they also have personal commitments like work, family, and friends they need to take into
consideration. Neglecting other aspects of your life only works for so long; youll be
more successful in the long run if you strike a healthy balance that incorporates these
other parts of life in your schedule. Take a look at the following tips that can help you
develop an integral time management plan.
Tip #1: Make a detailed study schedule and write it down Instead of just
determining times to study in your head, make a subject-specific schedule and mark your
calendar so you can be reminded every time you look at it. You will be more likely to
follow through with your study plan if it is clearly marked on your calendar. Include your
schedule in your cell phone and set regular pop-up reminders that you will have to close
before sending your next text message. Making a schedule and sticking to it will allow
you to develop a routine that you can easily follow. Remember, you will have to revise
your study schedule each semester to accommodate your class schedule and your other
changing commitments.
Tip #2: Prioritize your assignments Prioritizing your assignments is a good way to
ensure you spend the appropriate amount of time studying for each class or subject.
Devote more time to studying subjects that are new to you or those in which your grade
needs improvement. Also, remember to study the harder subjects first so that you tackle
them with a fresh mind. Additionally, you should organize your studies with important
tests or exams in mind. If an exam in one course has been postponed, modify your study
schedule to prioritize more immediate tests and projects. However, dont neglect

postponed tests altogether; take advantage of the extra time to review material during
short study times each day.
Tip #3: Prepare for temptation The best way to overcome the temptation to put
personal activities before studying is to anticipate these distractions. Attending college
and earning good grades is almost like a full-time job, so your studies will have to take
priority over socializing or other activities. You will inevitably compromise at some
point, but dont get discouraged. Rather, learn from your mistakes, and look for patterns
in the times you put off studying. By knowing your weaknesses, youll be better prepared
to resist temptation. Additionally, establish a way to reward yourself with fun activities
after you finish a study session. This will give you the extra boost of energy to
accomplish what you need to so you can enjoy spending time with your friends and
family.
Tip #4: Find a productive study environment Locating a productive workspace
where you can study is about more than just finding a quiet place. All students have a
place where they are able to stay on task and maximize their time. Actually, some
students find it ideal to study in a coffee shop or another place where there is background
noise. Part of choosing an optimal study space is anticipating potential distractions in
each place. Some students actually become more distracted when they study alone
because there is no accountability. If you tend to stay on task when there are other
students around who are devoting time exclusively to studying, plan your time so that
you can get to these places when others are studying.
Tip #5: Stay organized Staying organized is critical to avoid wasting valuable time as
a college student. Since you will be enrolled in several classes at a time, it is important
that you organize your class and study materials in a way that makes it easy to access
them. Find an organization method that works for you, such as using a separate binder or
folder for each class. Also, when going into a study session, make sure you have anything
you need. You dont want to interrupt your study session by searching your room for
flash cards or notes. If you are taking online courses, learn how to organize files in the
most efficient way possible to avoid wasting time sifting through your hard drive for
course materials.
Previous Chapter
Next Chapter
Copyright 20092013 HowtoStudy.com

Home
About Us
Contact Us

HowtoStudy.com

Table of Contents
About Us
Contact Us

Take Effective Notes

4

Understand Why Taking Notes is Important

Taking notes is a great way to remember important concepts your professor emphasized
in class. Not only does taking notes help when preparing for an exam, but it also to forces
you to listen more carefully during lectures. Also, taking your own notes allows you to
put concepts in your own terms, making it easier for you to understand them.
Additionally, taking notes directly from what your professors are teaching can help you
narrow down the vast amount of material to key concepts youll need to study later on.
Usually, what your professor lectures about in class is what will show up on tests.
Textbooks, on the other hand, tend to have a wealth of information, some which does not

apply directly to what your professor is teaching. Pay close attention in class, as
professors often give slight hints, or even explicitly tell you what will be on a test.
Quality notes also help you feel more organized and prepared. Having a sense of
organization will increase your confidence, which in turn will enhance your performance
on test day.

How to Take Effective Notes

There is no right or wrong way for students to take notes, but there are some helpful tips
that can make note taking more useful for studying later on. You can develop your own
style of note taking that is most effective for you. Browse the following tips to learn how
you can take better notes that can make studying more productive.
Tip #1: Be prepared for class Go to class prepared with anything youll need to take
notes. Have a notebook dedicated to taking notes only for that class. Remember to have
extra pens and pencils, and even highlighters so you can highlight important terms or
concepts. Take a binder or folder where you can organize your notes or any handouts you
receive during class. Ask your professor if you can set a tape recorder on your desk
during class, so that you can revisit the lecture later on to determine if there was any
important information you missed in your notes.
Tip #2: Learn how to be a good listener To take effective notes, you need to have
excellent listening skills and good judgment. During class, focus only on the instructor.
Try not to be distracted by other students, and remember to turn your cell phone off. By
anticipating and eliminating distractions, you will be able to better direct your attention.
Remember, you do not need to write down everything your instructor says. It is your job
to discern what is important enough to take notes on. When your professor stresses a key
concept, not only will it likely be on the test as a direct question, but it could be the basis
for solving several other questions on the same test. If your professor writes content on
the whiteboard, it is probably important enough to jot down in your notes. Also, pay close
attention to any charts or documents your professor presents, and whenever your
professor presents an unfamiliar term or fact, write it down. If you are ever in doubt, it is
probably a good idea to take a quick note.

Tip #3: Learn how to take notes in a way that is helpful to you It is important that
you develop a note-taking method that suits your learning style and works best for you.
This may include using a notebook, flash cards, and even different colored pens to
identify important terms. You should also use abbreviations when taking notes as opposed
to writing full sentences, which is extremely time-consuming. You can even set up your
own system for abbreviations and symbols. Put concepts in your own words so that when
you go back to study your notes you will easily know what your instructor was
discussing. Paraphrasing material is a great way to check your understanding of core
concepts.

Tip #5: Compare notes with other students Comparing notes with other students is
an effective, yet underutilized strategy. Many students only ask to see other students
notes when theyve missed a class. By comparing notes with others, you gain perspective
and see what other students in the class found to be salient information. Collaborating
and discussing topics covered in class not only helps you to better understand content for
an upcoming test, but it also gives you valuable insight about how other students have
learned to succeed in classes taught by even the most demanding professors. Get to know
some of the best note takers and schedule a time after class each week to compare notes.
This is also an opportunity for you to test your command of the material by attempting to
explain it to others.
Tip #6: Review, edit, and organize your notes After class, it is a good idea to review
your notes and make any edits necessary. Oftentimes, notes become messy and
disorganized because you are trying to keep up with the professor during the lecture. It is
worth the additional time to rewrite your notes in a more organized way. Also, research
any terms or concepts you didnt completely understand during the lecture. Additionally,
in order to protect the content youve spent hours creating, youll need to keep your notes
in an organized, safe place. Clearly label the binder or folder you are using for each class.
If you are taking notes on your laptop, create a backup file on a zip drive in case your
computer crashes the night before a test. Regardless of whether you take handwritten or
electronic notes, you should date your notes and reference any chapters in your textbook
that your notes correspond to for easy lookup later on.

Previous Chapter
Next Chapter
Copyright 20092013 HowtoStudy.com

Home
About Us
Contact Us

HowtoStudy.com

Table of Contents
About Us
Contact Us

Read Text Slowly Before and After Class

Most college students are bombarded with textbooks, and reading is often a chore they
come to dread. However, reading your textbooks does not need to be as difficult or timeconsuming as you think. The key is learning how to read the text more efficiently and
effectively.

Steps on how to read a textbook

Youve probably never examined or analyzed the way you read your textbooks to know if
you are doing so in an effective manner. Take a look at the following steps that will help
you absorb and retain the information you are reading.
Step #1: Survey Before you dive in and read the material in depth, take a minute to
survey the material by briefly skimming through the chapters you plan on reading. A
good starting point is to read the title of the chapter and any headings or subheadings you
see. Before you begin, look to see if there is an outline or reference page at the beginning
of the chapter. This breaks the chapter down into sections where you can see what each
has to offer. Also, look for words in bold text, which reference important terms you
should be aware of. You will also find it helpful to read the chapters introductory
paragraph, which provides insight as to what you will be reading about. Also, read the
summary at the end of the chapter, which outlines the most important topics covered in
the chapter.
Step #2: Question Formulate questions based on what you learned during the survey
step. Ask yourself what the most important topics or concepts in the chapter are. You may
find that turning each heading into a question is helpful. Develop questions like Who?,
What?, When?, Where?, Why?, and How?, which you can answer while you read.
Step #3: Read Once youve become familiar with what the chapter is going to cover, it
is time to start reading. Use what you discovered in step one to recognize any important
terms or concepts. It is also a good idea to underline or highlight any information you
think is important and that you would like to revisit later. Youll get the most out of
lectures by reading the chapter your professor is going to discuss in advance of the class.
By reading ahead of time, you will be more receptive and will have context for
understanding challenging concepts. After class, focus your reading on concepts your
professor emphasized in class.
Step #4: Recite After you have finished reading the text, the next step is to recite the
information you learned. This is a good time to answer the questions you developed in
step two. Try to answer each question without referring to the textbook in order to test
whether you really absorbed the material. Once you feel you have a complete grasp of the
material, repeat all the major topics and terms to yourself. Putting the concepts you read
into your own words helps with memorization. Reciting the text is all about reviewing
what you just read, so if you dont feel confident that you can answer the questions you
developed in step two, you should reread the text.
Step #5: Record Now that you have a strong grasp on what youve read, it is time to
take some notes. Use a notebook and label the top of the page with the chapter number
and title you just read. Reflect on the questions you answered previously to determine
what the most important topics were. Make headings on your paper with each of these
topics, and write down any information you found important. Also, write down all the
key terms in the chapter along with their meaning. Some textbooks include a list of these
terms at the end of each chapter.

Step #6: Review Now that youve read the material and taken notes, review everything
youve learned. Browse your notes to recall the important topics that were covered in the
chapter. Try to predict questions that your professor may put on an exam and practice
how you would answer them. Make sure you have a strong understanding of what you
just read. If you feel confused or do not understand a concept, use the page references
you included in your notes to go back and read about that concept. Also, this is a good
time to look over your notes to make sure they are thorough enough and contain all the
important information you will have to study later. While your notes should be brief, they
should also be detailed enough to allow you to refresh your memory of the most
important concepts.

How to study with your textbook

Now that you know how to read a textbook thoroughly and effectively, you should know
how to use it for studying purposes. When it is time to study for an exam, you do not
necessarily need to go through all six steps above, but you should take the time to review
core concepts in each chapter. Many of the same tips you used prior to reading will be
useful for test preparation. You will find it helpful to reread the introductory paragraph
and summary at the end of the chapter. These give you a basic refresher about what
information is included in the chapter. Revisit headings, subheadings, and bolded terms.
Also, maximize the work youve already done by reviewing underlined or highlighted
words that you marked while you were reading.
Previous Chapter
Next Chapter
Copyright 20092013 HowtoStudy.com

Home
About Us
Contact Us

HowtoStudy.com

Table of Contents
About Us
Contact Us

Study Smart Before Exams

6

Many college students feel stressed and overwhelmed when a test or exam is
approaching. By studying for tests in a smarter way, you will save time and be prepared
to ace your exams. In addition to the reading and note-taking tips youve read about, you
can take advantage of specific tips to enhance your exam preparation. Below is a detailed
list of common study methods college students use to prepare for exams.

Explore common study methods

Image-word association This study method associates words with images. Some
people memorize best when they can visualize a word or concept in their head. Students
who use this method associate an unknown term or concept with something they already

know. For example, if a term in your textbook sounds like an object you already know,
picture that object in your head every time you say or read that word. Relating an
unfamiliar term to a familiar image can help you to remember it more easily.
Acronyms and mnemonic devices An acronym is a combination of letters that can be
used to help you memorize a term or concept. You can combine the first letter of each
word of a compound term or idea to spell a word that is easy to recall. For example, one
of the most common acronyms people use every day is ASAP, which stands for as soon
as possible. Acronyms are just one tool that students use to remember course material. In
order to remember the order of items in a series, some students create sayings that begin
with the first letter of each item in that series. A basic example is the saying that younger
students use to remember which order north, east, south, and west appear on a compass:
Never Eat Soggy Worms. Notice how the first letter of each term correlates with the order
or direction on a compass. You can come up with personal and creative ways to use
mnemonic devices to study for a test. Create something that is useful and easily
memorable to you.
Hide-write-compare You probably remember this study method from when you were
younger and were learning how to spell. You probably looked at a word, covered it, tried
to write it correctly yourself, and then compared it with the correctly written word. While
this seems like a simple method often used at the elementary level, it is a useful studying
tool at the college level. For example, after you have read a chapter in your textbook and
written down all the important terms, you can test your knowledge to see if you
remember them. Cover up the definition of each term and try writing it again from
memory. When finished, compare with the correct definition. Writing something down
repeatedly helps it stick in your mind better.
Story Telling Story telling is a helpful way to absorb information for many college
students. You may recall when you were younger how your parents told you a story about
the meaning of a holiday, or how your teacher told you the story of Christopher
Columbus in grade school. Youve probably never forgotten this information because it
was taught to you through narrative that you visualize in your head to this day. Tell
yourself a story about an important person you need to learn about for a test. For
example, instead of looking at your textbook as full of boring facts, turn that information
into an exciting story with details that can help you remember. Tell the story to yourself
out loud, and to others if you find it helps. Many professors even choose to teach using
storytelling.
Analogy An analogy is the comparison of two or more things. You can use analogies to
compare and contrast specific terms or ideas. There are several kinds of analogies,
including parts to whole, such as a battery is to a flashlight as a keyboard is to a
computer. Cause and effect analogies are also common, such as smoking is to cancer as
itching is to scratching. While you can create your own analogies, one of the keys to
smarter studying is recognizing analogies that are already in the content you are studying.
With practice, youll become more skilled at recognizing patterns and analogies that help
you digest course material.

Repetition Repetition is the most common study method students use. Repetition
involves reviewing information again and again until you have grasped the concept.
Repetition can be used in several ways. For example, you can create flash cards to master
material that requires rote memorization. When studying a foreign language, some
students choose to repeat terms or concepts aloud or write information down repeatedly.
You should consider what way you learn best to determine what style of repetition to use.

Determine when to use each study method

While the above methods have served many college students well, some of these tips will
suit you better than others. Try different methods for different kinds of courses, as your
approach to a science course will be quite different from your approach to a readingintensive course in the humanities. For example, you will find repetition helpful for an
anatomy course, whereas storytelling would be best to test your understanding in a
history course. Discerning which methods to use and when to use them will also be
informed by your strengths and learning style. You might learn or retain information
better by looking and pictures or charts, whereas other students benefit more from
reciting terms aloud. Remember that there is no right or wrong way to study. Form a
comprehensive, yet flexible, study approach that takes into consideration your course
load and the ways in which you will be tested in each of your courses.

Previous Chapter
Next Chapter
Copyright 20092013 HowtoStudy.com

Home
About Us
Contact Us

HowtoStudy.com

Table of Contents
About Us
Contact Us

Use Test-Taking Strategies on Exam Day

7

Exam day has come, and you know you have prepared adequately, but you may still be
anxious when the time comes to actually take the exam. Dont be embarrassed. Many
students feel stressed, nervous, and worried when they have to demonstrate what theyve
learned through an exam.
The following tips will guide you through exam day. Remember that every exam is
different. This test-taking guide is written in a general sense, with an eye toward the
typical college-level exam.

Preparation for exam day

Avoid cramming the night before. You will retain more both on test day and
afterwards for comprehensive exams if you study regularly and at a reasonable
pace. While a brief review will help, avoid an exhaustive cramming session that
leaves you facing the test tired.
Prepare your equipment. You should have two or three pens or pencils with
good erasers, as well as books, note cards, or cheat sheets your instructor
permits. If you are taking a math or science test, bring a calculator with good
batteries. Also, since you wont be allowed to use your cell phone, bring a watch
to keep track of time. Lastly, if allowed, bring some chewing gum to deal with
nervous tension.
Be physically ready. Your previous preparation can go to waste if you dont get a
good nights sleep before test day. You should also eat a healthy meal and be well
hydrated before the exam begins. Avoid overeating or consuming excessive
caffeine before your test. Also, use the restroom before the test begins, and if it is
permitted, bring a bottle of water.
Find out as much as you can about the exam before it begins. Find out details
about the format of the test. Ask your professor if you will have to write any
essays. If essays are your weak point, research potential essay topics and create an
outline in order to save time for other sections of the test. Also, remember to ask
about the rules for test day. Will you be permitted to go to the restroom during the
test? Is there a strict time limit?

During the exam

Read the test directions closely. If you have questions, ask your instructor to
clarify the matter, either to you personally or to the entire class. Dont be
embarrassed: your fellow students will likely have the same questions. If other
students ask questions, dont get so engrossed in your test that you miss out on
answers to their questions.
Remember to breathe. If you feel yourself panicking or stressing out, put down
your pencil and take several long, deep breaths. Do this several times throughout
the test to clear your mind and fill your blood with oxygen. Imagine yourself
relaxing and visualize a calm image.
Survey the test before beginning. Glance over the entire test and form a loose
plan for how you will spend your time. You do not need to closely inspect every
question, but your plan may be very different for a test with fifteen multiplechoice questions and six essay questions than for one with ninety multiple-choice
questions and one essay. If the professor provides the point value of each question
or section, focus on the sections with the highest point value if you expect to be
pressed for time. Briefly look at any bonus questions, and answer those you know
before spending time on complex, challenging questions.
Read every question closely. Sometimes teachers will write questions that are
deliberately reversed from what you might expect in order to challenge you. If
you feel that a question is nonsensical, hard to understand, or contains typos, ask
your instructor for clarification; misprints and editing accidents can happen.

Strategize for multiple-choice and true/false questions. Read the question

thoroughly, and if it helps, solve the problem on scratch paper. If the answer is not
immediately clear, you may wish to skip it for the moment and solve problems
that you know you can handle quickly. For multiple-choice questions, rule out as
many options as you can, and make an educated guess. You wont get it right if
you dont try. For true/false questions, remember that absolute or near-absolute
answers, such as those that use always or never, are often false.
Look for key words in essay questions. Read the question thoroughly and be
sure you understand the specific topic, as well as what you are supposed to do
with your essay. Keywords include define, explain, and compare. Prepare a
short outline on scratch paper to organize your thoughts, and consider the time
you have. Address the topic with a direct response, and address all aspects of the
question with specifics, not just general statements. You should use technical
vocabulary from the course correctly, but dont feel you need to show off. Even if
you and your teacher differ in perspective on a course topic, you can write an
informed answer that reflects you knowledge of different angles on this topic.
Dont get distracted by other students taking the test. If they are being
disruptive, ask them to be quiet or inform the instructor. Avoid looking toward
their papers. Dont feel pressured if other students complete the test quickly and
leave early; some students take tests very quickly, and this has little bearing on
their actual performance on those tests. If you find yourself racing to finish and
get it over with, be sure to review your answers and check your work to spot
mistakes or questions you overlooked.

After the exam

Once you have completed your test and double-checked it for mistakes, try not to
dwell on how it went. Even if you felt you did poorly, it is now beyond your
control. Do something that relaxes you, like playing a sport or listening to music,
and go about your routine otherwise.
If you receive your test paper back, look at where you made mistakes to
determine your strengths and weaknesses for future attempts. In particular,
professors often provide commentary on answers to essay questions if you have
had problems presenting your argument or recalling factual material. Save your
tests to study for midterms and final exams; even if the exact questions arent
repeated, you can learn a lot from the way a professor asks questions.
If your instructor has a test-review session, dont skip it. Reviewing the material
will help you learn and will enhance your performance on future tests.
Sometimes, instructors even award credit for errors they made (which may require
you to be present). Some professors allow you to revise your test for an
improvement in score, and others award bonus points simply for attending the
posttest review session.

Previous Chapter
Next Chapter

Copyright 20092013 HowtoStudy.com

Home
About Us
Contact Us

HowtoStudy.com

Table of Contents
About Us
Contact Us

Maintain Your Studies

8

Although you will feel relieved when you step out of your final exam, which is one of the
most challenging parts of the class, your work doesnt stop there. You will have to keep
your skills and new knowledge updated and fresh so that you can make effective use of it
later on. Whether youve just studied accounting skills for your business management
degree, details of kings and empires for your graduate thesis in history, or computer
programming methods for a computer science course, keeping up with your studies will
help you retain that knowledge so that you can apply it in other courses and in your
career.
Keep in mind as you read through this section that the content of some subjects is more
constant than that of others. For example, programming languages change regularly, and

healthcare best practices are continually updated, but anatomy and physiology terms and
mathematical theorems stay the same. For fields that are constantly evolving, you will
have to be even more proactive to stay up-to-date in your field.

Just after the exam

Save your textbooks. Unfortunately, the cost of textbooks makes it hard to hold
on to them. However, key reference manuals will be useful to you in the future,
and you should resist the urge to sell them back if you expect to stay in the field.
In addition, many courses, particularly in literature, require inexpensive copies of
the texts being studied, which may be worth more if you keep them handy than
the small sum you would get for resale. If you made notes in the margin of some
of these classics, it would be wise to keep these copies if you plan to pursue
graduate studies or teach on these works in the future.
Hold on to your notebooks. Most courses will leave you with a collection of
class notes, lecture notes, and handouts, which may be more valuable than the
textbook, since these notes are the only record of what your professors
emphasized during class. This may be less important if you took electives that
dont have direct bearing on further courses, but many coursesparticularly when
you are pursuing a major in a subject or a graduate degreebuild on other
courses. Keep these notes organized in a single place where you can readily
access them. Use a labeling system so that you can locate that critical piece of
information when you need it, whether its two semesters or ten years later.
Back up your data. Backing up data is important for any digital media that you
recorded during your courses, from tape-recordings to videos of lectures your
instructor provided. If youre working in digital media, graphic design or some
other artistic field featuring a lot of digitally based work, this is even more
important, as you will likely need to assemble a portfolio either to pursue graduate
study or to use as your resum for artistic jobs. Be sure to use durable media, and
you should keep your disks and license keys for software as well, as changes in
drivers and display equipment can change your works dramatically.

Next semester and next year

Stay in touch with your instructors and peers. You likely developed favorite
teachers and study partners, even if it was an informal arrangement based on
having several classes together. Instructors are a great resource for work and
internship opportunities. At the undergraduate level, they can introduce you to
new programs, independent study, and provide you with vital professional
contacts if you intend to enter academia or pursue graduate study. At the graduate
level, they become even more vital, as they will likely judge your academic work
and provide you with guidance in your course selections and, in many programs,
your research. Your peers are also a useful resource, providing you with
perspective and possibly work opportunities when they need a reliable business
partner.

Join a professional organization. Most fields of study have a professional

association of experienced professionals and students pursuing a career in that
discipline. These groups often publish a journal, which you will receive as part of
your membership package. These journals discuss the state of employment in the
field, whether it be teaching or advanced-practice nursing. These journals will
also provide you with academic insight and allow you to stay on top of
developing trends and knowledge, especially in fast-moving fields like
information technology. Many professional organizations also offer certification
programs that give you a professional advantage; some of these you might need in
order to work in that field at all. The cost of a student membership in these groups
is usually a nominal fee of $50-$60 per year.

After graduation and going forward!

Pursue publishing opportunities. Even if you are working in a field not known
for many opportunities for research, professional associations welcome articles on
their topics of study. Throughout your career, you will gain new insight and
unique experiences that you can to pass on to others. The process of researching
and writing articles for publication is an excellent refresher on many of the basics
of research methodology and the writing style and conventions within your
discipline. If the thought of publishing in a professional journal is daunting,
contact professionals interested in similar research and ask about collaborating on
research projects. By collaborating on research with experienced professionals,
you gain insight from their approach to research and learn from their perspective
on how the field is changing.
Pursue free online courses. A wide range of open courseware and massive open
online courses (MOOC) are available in many subjects, with more being offered
every semester. Enrolling in a MOOC will give you the opportunity to review
your studies and to share your experience with other students through online
conversations. These opportunities to teach other students serve as both a
refresher and a test of your own mastery of course content.

Previous Chapter
Next Chapter
Copyright 20092013 HowtoStudy.com

Home
About Us
Contact Us

HowtoStudy.com

Table of Contents
About Us
Contact Us

Manage Your Stress

9

Studying is stressful. Whether youre attending a high-tension medical program or

pursuing an online course, devoting your time and energy to learning is a complex
process. Whats more, studying can compete with work, family, and other activities for
your limited amount of energy. You will inevitably have times when you worry because
something major comes up, such as a research paper or a final exam.
Stress is an entirely natural process. It doesnt mean that you arent studying well or that
youre unable to process your course material. There is a positive kind of stress,
eustress, which can actually serve as motivation to continue working, but that is not the
sort of stress that is concerning. Distress, the negative kind of stress, is what causes
problems and can affect your academic performance. Fortunately, distress can be
controlled. Although the following tips cannot solve every tense moment, they will help
minimize distress throughout your education.

Know the symptoms of stress

Know the difference between normal and harmful stress. Remember, stress is
a normal response, particularly to unpleasant surprises, scary incidents, and
similar moments. The problem arises when you experience very frequent acute
episodes of stress, or when it becomes a chronic, ongoing thing.
Learn the toll that stress takes on your body. Frequent acute stress often shows
itself with symptoms like recurring headaches, fatigue, insomnia or difficulty
resting, and indigestion. Chronic stress often shows itself with grinding teeth,
forgetfulness, overeating or excessive drinking, confusion, and other symptoms
that may come to seem like the natural state of things. Stress also weakens the
immune system, leading to frequent colds and infections. It leads to muscular
tension and aches, hyperventilation, and heart arrhythmia.

If these symptoms describe what you have been feeling, admit it to yourself. The first
step to handling your stress is recognizing it and admitting you need to deal with it.

First aid: What to do in the moment

You can begin to notice the symptoms of stress at any time. Even if you can handle what
is on your plate right now, one small additional trivial thing can send you over the edge.
If you feel yourself getting overwhelmed, use this advice to get an immediate handle on
your stress levels.

Breathe deeply. This will reoxygenate your blood and help you take a few
moments to step back from a stressful situation. Lie down or sit up straight and
put a hand on your abdomen, just below the navel. Breathe in slowly through your
nose until your lungs are full. Hold the breath for a moment before exhaling.
Repeating this several times should get you calm enough to look at things more
clearly.
Do something comforting. Are you hungry? Thirsty? Do you feel a headache
coming on? Briefly changing scenery by walking to the water fountain or stepping

out on the balcony will help you refocus. Whats more, by taking a clear step to
make your situation better, however small it may be, you tell your body and brain
that things are under control. Eat a healthy snack or drink water or tea rather than
strong beverages or junk food.
Use breaks to optimize productivity. If your specific task is something you can
put down for a short while, do so. When youre stressed out, you often arent
doing your best work anyway. Even with time-critical tasks such as exams, you
will be better served by taking a minute to ease yourself than by working yourself
to a grinding halt by trying to push through to the end.

The long term: Understand yourself and take control

Stress usually follows patterns and cycles. By observing yourself and learning those
cycles, you gain valuable information you need to train yourself to handle stress better.
After youve dealt with your immediate situation, use these tips to build your own stress
management plan.

Look for your stress signs and stressors. You will find you have certain physical
cues that tell you when youre getting stressed, even if you dont feel like youre
stressed. If a tense headache or a tightness in your shoulders are your cues, take
those signs as a warning. Whatever youre doing is stressing you, and you should
calm yourself however you can. Watch for patterns to determine what academic
subjects or tasks tend to bring on these symptoms.
Chunk tasks. Huge tasks can be broken down into many smaller parts, which are
much easier to tackle individually. A 15-page paper becomes less terrifying when
you see it as three pages per day, then five pages of editing per day. You will also
feel more accomplished when you complete numerous small tasks, rather than
making a tiny bit of progress on a large one.
Avoid procrastinating. Breaking up tasks wont do you much good if you keep
everything for the last minute. Resolve to spend a certain amount of time on your
studies, and stick to that time. During that period, study and work on your class
projects, and dont be afraid to put them down afterwards. Studies show that
regular, relaxed study helps you learn and recall more than last-minute cramming.
Dont be afraid to say no. You can and should keep up with your nonacademic
responsibilities, but you arent under an obligation to help everyone who asks.
You need time and mental space to study successfully; if this means skipping an
event or turning down a request to work extra, you should feel free to do so.
Take care of your health. Stress is a physical reaction, and by building up your
health, youll be able to handle it better. Be sure to eat regular nutritious meals
with a minimum of junk food, especially when studying. If you dont get regular
exercise, start now. Although it seems counterintuitive, exercise will actually give
you more energy. Also, reduce or quit your bad habits, such as smoking or staying
up late, as these habits drain your energy and make studying an uphill battle.

Previous Chapter
Next Chapter
Copyright 20092013 HowtoStudy.com

Home
About Us
Contact Us

HowtoStudy.com

Table of Contents
About Us
Contact Us

Exercise Your Brain for Optimal Memory

Training
10

Your memory is central to your studying; it is, after all, where all of your knowledge
goes. However, the brain is often poorly understood, and a little focused brain exercise
can greatly improve your memory power, allowing you to do better in your studies as
well as in other areas of your life.
Thoughts and sensory impressions (such as hearing a lecture) briefly pass through
sensory memory before they reach your short-term or working memory, which is where
you hold things briefly in mind. A good example of this is remembering phone numbers
or e-mail addresses. Information in your short-term memory is permanently encoded in

your long-term memory, where it becomes part of your general store of knowledge,
although your ability to recall that information varies.

Exercise your working memory

Break down long items into smaller pieces. When youre faced with a complex
piece of information, try to break it down into small portions. Your short-term
memory can hold between four and seven separate things at once. By leveraging
this chunking technique, you can make each item carry more useful information.
An example of this is found in telephone numbers: 5551234567 is difficult to
remember at a glance, but by breaking it down into several pieces, such as 555123-4567, you will be able to remember it long enough to write it down or store
it in permanent memory.
Play games that focus on handling information quickly and correctly. There
are learning games online designed specifically to help you train your memory.
Utilize several different kinds of games in order to exercise and develop various
parts of the brain. Naturally, these games shouldnt be used to put off your
studying, but they are a fun way to relieve stress and train your memory at the
same time. Many of these memory games are free online and have been proven to
increase memory.
Provide yourself with different forms of stimulation throughout the day. Read
a book, even if just a few pages. Stimulate your sense of smell by stopping to
smell the flowers. Try different foods and spend some time looking at a natural
landscape. Take time for regular social interaction with others. Listen to music;
although any kind of music can provide auditory stimulation, some studies
suggest classical is best. By reacting to all of these stimulations, your brain will
stay flexible, which aids working memory.
Keep a handle on your stress levels, using the advice from the previous
chapter. Stress is literally toxic to memory; the chemicals your body produces
under stress interfere directly with the process of transferring information from
short-term to long-term memory. Protect your brain by learning how to minimize
the release of these stress chemicals.

Working out your recall

Practice active listening during class. You should listen attentively and write
down summaries of the teachers concepts, ideas, and facts that are introduced, as
well as connections that occur to you from other reading. By taking notes actively,
instead of trying to write down everything that was said verbatim, you engage
your memory and mind much more deeply. One effective association technique is
to include a small personal note in your notebook for each class; something as
insignificant as noting the weather, what you had for lunch, or what tie the
instructor wore can spark a fuller recall of the entire lecture.
When you study your notes, introduce various review techniques. Dont just
read the text or your notes: Read them aloud. Consider rewriting them by hand if
you usually use a laptop or tablet to take notes, or vice versa. If you are given

sample exam questions, write out sample outlines or answers by hand while
studying instead of just reading the subjects covered. These methods provide you
with both repetition and variety; remembering the subject in connection with
different acts will create more associations that will enhance your ability to recall
information.
Make meaningful use of flash cards. Prepare flash cards on the subject you want
to memorize, with the name (word, picture, concept) on one side and the answer
on the other. Just writing them out is good practice, but dont stop there. After
shuffling them, go through them and quiz yourself. Put cards that you get wrong
in stack A, and the ones you get right in stack B. Review stack A every day,
moving the cards you get right to stack B. Review stack B every week, putting the
ones you get wrong in stack A. This is a powerful tool when you need to learn
factual information, like vocabulary terms, foreign languages, and historical
events and dates.
Study regularly and oftenbut not always for long periods. Studying
frequently will help you build long-term memories you can easily recall, as well
as give you a positive, regular habit that builds your work ethic. What builds
learning is regular repetition, more than sheer hours studied. Of course, you will
need to study enough to cover the material in the class, but research indicates
youll get more out of an hour a day over the course of a week than you would
from five hours of intensive study.
Keep your brain fueled. Despite only weighing a few pounds, your brain uses
about a quarter of your bodys energy, which means thinking is hard work. Eat
regularly, and try to focus on protein and vegetables; fish, green leafy vegetables,
and pinto and kidney beans are especially beneficial. Complex carbohydrates like
whole grains, lentils, and brown rice give you sustained energy, as well. While
you shouldnt over-indulge, studies indicate that a little caffeine (especially coffee
and green tea) or alcohol (particularly red wine) can help your long-term brain
health, too.

Previous Chapter
Next Chapter
Copyright 20092013 HowtoStudy.com

Home
About Us
Contact Us

HowtoStudy.com

Table of Contents

About Us
Contact Us

Appendix: Top Ten Resources

11

1. hack my study Having nothing to do with computer crime, this site provides
you with a series of guides on how to do vital tasks better, as well as advice on
how to deal with problems like Internet browsing during study, in unique ways.
For instance, to deal with Internet-based procrastination, the site provides a

tutorial on how to temporarily block yourself from accessing websites that will
waste your time.
2. Study Stack This site is an archive of user-created flash cards on a huge range
of topics, which you can browse and use to self-quiz through your browser.
Medical and language vocabulary are well represented, as are drills for
standardized tests like the LSAT. You can also create your own flash cards on any
topic you like and share it with the world.
3. Quizlet Find quick quizzes on all sorts of subjects from literature vocabulary to
German food adjectives, as well as vital resources such as nursing abbreviations
for the NCLEX. With over 20 million quiz sets and the option to easily and
quickly create your own sets, this site is a great way to do some quick study.
4. MIT Open Courseware This site provides access to the study material behind
most of the courses taught at MIT, including full, free online introductions to
dozens of subjects, as well as study guides and video lectures. There is no cost or
obligation, and it can help you review or learn more about subjects that interest
you.
5. Information Literacy Introduce yourself to the skills you need to successfully
navigate the increasingly deep ocean of information at everyones fingertips.
These skills are often neglected in schools and taken for granted by those who
have gained them. Youll learn about how best to locate, evaluate, and
productively share information and resources with others.
6. Project Gutenberg Named for the inventor of movable-type printing in the
West, this website collects public domain books and makes them available in a
variety of digital formats, including audio books. This site can be vital if your
course assigns an unusual or rare text, or if you just want to save some money in
your literature courses.
7. Shakespeare Online This site includes the complete works of William
Shakespeare, including his sonnets, along with selections of quotes, analysis of
his plots and themes, and all the additional Shakespeare information you can
imagine. Shakespeares influence on English-language writing and culture is
profound, and much of the information is interesting in its own right.
8. ULifeline This resource guides you in how to handle stress and mental
difficulties you may run into during your college experience. It includes
information on how to keep yourself well and how to check yourself for signs of
disorders, as well as information on campus-based resources for help. There are
even special sections for student athletes and veterans.
9. Purplemath If you havent been able to get a handle on math, this site gives
you a huge number of conversationally written self-study lessons in different
topics from college algebra to trigonometry. You will also get advice on how to
avoid trick questions, along with resources for free online tutoring.
10. CliffsNotes These famous publishers of literary study guides provide
comprehensive guides to all sorts of topics, complete with self-review questions
and other specialized assistance. Their greatest strength is in literature guides, but
material can be found on all sorts of college subjects, particularly at the
introductory level.

Previous Chapter
Next Chapter
Copyright 20092013 HowtoStudy.com

Home
About Us
Contact Us

HowtoStudy.com

Table of Contents
About Us
Contact Us

Appendix: Other Study Tips

12

AcademicTips.org This site is a clearinghouse for all sorts of helpful tips for
college students, encompassing studying, taking effective notes, taking tests
successfully, and writing quality scholarship application essays.
How To Study This site, presented in infographic form, includes plenty of tips,
tricks, and factoids on studying, such as night owls low GPA and the problems
with music while studying.
Develop Good Study Habits For College Part of wikiHow, an online guide to
many skills, this resource provides thirteen steps to forming good study habits,
including concepts like scheduling your breaks and partying.
9 Awesome Study Tips for College Students Collected from the New York
Times, this list of tips challenges some conventional ideas (dont over-study; tests
can actually help you learn) while endorsing others (flashcards are great).
ACT Test: How to Study for the Science Test This guide is intended for high
school-level or other aspiring college students worrying about the ACTs science
exam. It provides advice on making use of practice tests for self-assessment.

Ten Study Methods that Work Chadron State College provides this site that
lists ten ways to study that are confirmed by research, including information on
study environment and memory.
Fixed-Schedule Productivity This site provides a guide on how to set your
number of hours spent working and studying. Youll also find advice on how to
accomplish what you need to during that period.
How to Study for Computer Science Exams This resource combines tips and
thoughtful discussion from computer science instructors and others on preparing
for computer science tests.
Building an Autopilot Schedule This resource provides a discussion on how to
structure your mechanical studying parts, like regular review of notes or reading
a chapter of a book, into a low-stress routine.
Accomplish More by Doing Less This article discusses how Albert Einstein sat
down and figured out relativity by focusing on what was important. Learn how to
a carry out a five-step productivity purge.
How to study for college science classes This resource is provided by the
University of Washington Oshkosh and is based entirely on the observed
behaviors of successful students. This guide advises you to treat science courses
like learning a foreign language and tells you how to be successful in college
science courses.
General Advice on Academic Essay Writing From the University of Toronto,
this resource guides you through the not-always-obvious path of writing a
successful academic essay.
Self-Help Math Study Skills This resource from Texas A&M University guides
you toward preparing for your coursework, getting help when you need it, and
keeping up with your instructor.
How to Organize and Conduct Effective Study Groups This guide helps you
lead a study group so all of you get the most possible out of the experience.
Reading Comprehension This guide from Penn State is useful if youve ever
read a textbook chapter and then realized you had no idea what youd just read.
Youll learn how to read more quickly and how to tackle challenging books.
Concept Mapping This guide introduces you to the effective studying method
of concept mapping, whereby you connect the broad ideas of your subject with a
guided doodle.
Critical Reading vs. Critical Thinking These two similar-sounding skills are
both essential to studying, but arent the same thing. This guide helps you build
your skills in both.
23 Science-Backed Study Tips to Ace a Test This guide will help you if your
problem is performance on tests; it derives its advice from scientific studies on
problems in psychology and learning.
Note Taking This guide introduces you to the ins and outs of note taking, which
can be a subtle art. Even if you have experience, you will find new tips and tricks
here.

Previous Chapter
Next Chapter
Copyright 20092013 HowtoStudy.com

Home
About Us
Contact Us

HowtoStudy.com

Table of Contents
About Us
Contact Us

Appendix: Best Student Credit Cards &

Financial Advice
13

Top Credit Cards for Students

Why should college students get credit cards
Getting their first credit card is a big step for a college student. While credit cards
represent a serious responsibility, they are also very useful. Having a credit card teaches
budgeting and money management. Credit cards also allow students to establish credit
history, which will be necessary when renting an apartment, buying a car, lowering car
insurance rates, employment at some companies, and buying a home.

Thanks to the Credit CARD Act of 2009, it is also safer for college students to get a
credit card. Terms and conditions for credit cards must be transparent, and card issuers
cannot raise interest rates on existing balances or allow a student to exceed the limit so
that the issuer can impose an overlimit fee.
Still, there are some concerns parents should consider before allowing college students to
get their own credit cards. Below well look at some of the issues that are involved, so
parents and students alike can make an informed decision.
How do college students qualify for credit cards?
Under the Credit Card Act of 2009, students under 21 must either have proof of a job that
earns enough to pay the charges on a credit card or they must have a co-signer who is
willing to open a joint credit card account with them. Students also need to have a credit
history, which can be difficult for a first-time credit card application.
Co-signing on a student credit card
Parents with good credit can co-sign on a credit card. Having a co-signer allows the
student to build their own credit history and learn good principles of money management
without having to shoulder 100% of the responsibility of holding a credit card. Both
parties on a co-signed card can benefit from responsible use of a card as the credit history
is reported for both individuals.
However, co-signing comes with risks. If the student (or the parent!) cannot manage the
account responsibly by making payments on time, it can harm the credit rating for both
individuals. The parent will also be responsible for all debts and faces penalties and
higher interest rates if the card goes into default.
What are some of the downsides to students having credit cards?
College students leave school with $3000 or more in credit card debt, often on top of
student loan debt that currently averages $35,000 per student.
With so much potential debt in their future, its important that a student with a credit card
understands how to manage their account.

Its tempting to use a credit card as a way to spend beyond their means.

Reward points make it easier to justify unnecessary purchases.

Many cards, especially student credit cards, require low minimum payments. This
encourages smaller payments, thereby accruing interest.

Convenience checks and cash advances make accessing cash easy. Credit cards
arent the same as debit cardsall that money has to be paid back later.

How can college students use credit cards wisely?

They should pay the balance every month, and not accrue charges beyond their
means to repay in a single month.

They should have a part-time or full-time job so that they can pay the balance
themselves.

Start with one card with a low limit until the student demonstrates consistent
repayment and sound financial judgement.

The student needs to understand their billing statement and all charges, including
the APR. This also includes the penalties for late or nonpayment. If they travel for
study abroad or vacation, students should also be familiar with the foreign
currency transaction fees for purchases made abroad.

If they have a rewards card, they should be encouraged to use to card to make
regular everyday purchases, so the rewards will work to their advantage. They
should not make purchases just to accrue reward points.

They need to learn that credit cards are not a means of instant gratification.

Top financial advice for college students

Dont be tempted to open a credit card just because they give you a free t-shirt, stuffed
animal, or large pizza. Thats advice from Forbes.com, and is echoed by
Moneycrashers.com when they point out that freshmen should never sign up for a
student credit card on a whim.
Meanwhile, Dailyfinance.com reminds us that credit cards arent free money, and you
need to keep track of your spending. Keep track of your spending using tools such as the
ones recommended by Fastweb.com: FinAids Student Budget Calculator or the
calculator provided by Mint.com.

Where students can get their first credit card

Major credit card companies
Most major credit card issuers (Discover, Citibank, etc.) have student credit card options,
and they often have special rates and incentives for students to sign up. Be careful,
however, as some cards may have high interest rates.
Banks
If a student already has a bank account and maintains a regular balance without
overdrafts, their bank may also be a good option for a credit card.

Retail stores
Many retailers offer their own credit cards. The downsides include high interest rates and
the cards can only be used in their stores. However, that limitation can also make them a
good first card, and successful management of a store card can lead to a major credit card
later.
Secured credit cards
Secured cards are credit cards that are available to individuals with no (or poor) credit
history. With these, you must make a deposit to the issuer against the credit limit of the
card, and then you use the card as usual. Often if you make all of your payments for a
year, the card can be converted into a regular credit card.
Student Credit Cards we recommend

Discover it for Students Good Grades Rewards

Citi ThankYou Preferred Card for College Students
Wells Fargo Cash Back College Card
Journey Student Rewards from Capital One
State Farm Student Visa
U.S. Bank College Visa Card
Upromise World MasterCard

Previous Chapter
Next Chapter
Copyright 20092013 HowtoStudy.com

Home
About Us
Contact Us

HowtoStudy.com

Table of Contents
About Us
Contact Us

Appendix: Best Study Apps and Gadgets

to Help Your College Grades
14

Top Study Apps and Gadgets for College Students

Being a college student requires you to juggle many different things. You have to keep
track of your class schedule and homework assignments. Youve just gotten a credit card
and you need to manage your finances. At test time, it would be really handy to have a
way to study effectively, and when the next papers due, youll need a way to find
research and keep track of information, not to mention actually get the paper itself
finished on time. And of course, with Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Reddit and other
online distractions, it can be a hassle to get your work done.
Fortunately, there are a number of tools and gadgets that can help you organize your life,
improve your productivity and study habits, and even give you a hand at test time. Below
we review some great tools that will give your studies a boost!
Gadgets
Neo smartpen N2
The Neo Smartpen is a stylus that allows you to write using a pen on special paper.
Sensors within the tip of the pen digitize whatever you write and translate the writing into
plain text, and saves your drawings as images. You can sync your notes with Evernote.
Kingston DataTraveler Micro 3.1
As a student, your digital files are critical to your life, and its a good idea to save
important data and papers in multiple places. To help with this, the Kingston
DataTraveler Micro 3.1 is a tiny metal flash/thumbdrive that you can hang on your
keychain so you always have it with you. It comes in 16GB, 32GB and 64GB storage
sizes.
Kensington KP400 Switchable Keyboard
Today we all have multiple devices: phones, tablets, desktop computers and laptops.
Wouldnt it be great if you had one keyboard that could work with all of them? The
Kensington KP400 Switchable Keyboard does exactly that. Connecting with bluetooth,
the Kensington KP400 offers a full-sized keyboard with a numeric keypad, bringing
together the best worlds of functionality and comfort. Adding to its convenience, it can be
powered by batteries or a USB port.
Apps for Time Management & Study Skills
Focus Booster
Keep track of how much time youre spending on productive projectsand how much
time you spend on social mediawith this desktop app. It also provides a timer to make
sure you take regular breaks. (Mac OS, Windows)
iStudiez Pro

Get organized with an online schedule planner that keeps track of all of your classes and
assignments. Once you have iStudiezPro you wont ever forget you have an upcoming
quiz or paper! (iOS, Android, Mac OS)
StudyBlue
Flashcards have never been easier (really!). With StudyBlue you can browse thousands of
uploaded flashcard decks in every conceivable subject and you can also make your own.
Whether youre trying to memorize vocabulary, equations, or the periodic table,
StudyBlue has you covered. (iOS, Android, web)
Finances
Mint
Youre a busy student and the last thing you want to do is spend extra time dealing with
your bills and bank statements. Never fear, the free app from Mint.com allows you to
connect all of your bank accounts, credit cards, and bills so you can manage your money
and keep track of your balance. (iOS, Android, web)
Scholly: Scholarship Search
Scholly makes the process of researching and applying for scholarships easier than ever
before. With the Scholly app you can find scholarships you qualify for, and then track
deadlines and applications. Scholly will even lend a hand when it comes time to write
those pesky scholarship application essays. (iOS, Android)
Papers & Homework
Evernote
There are notes apps, and then theres Evernote. You can take notes on your computer,
phone or tablet and everything syncs flawlessly. You can clip articles or snippets from the
internet from your computer or send a link from the Facebook app directly to your
Evernote folders. Organizing notes is super easy with a folder system, and global search
makes finding things a snap. (iOS, Android, desktop, web)
Dragon Anywhere
Write papers faster by dictation! Dragon Anywhere allows you to use your phone or
tablet to write your rough drafts by speaking into your phones microphone. While you
will still have to edit the work afterwards, it can help you avoid the blank page paralysis!
Combine it with Evernote and you can automatically sync your new creations to your
computer. (iOS, Android)
Wolfram Alpha

Wolfram Alpha is a scientific search engine that does your thinking for you. A great place
to search for data or calculations, it also provides academic apps for students. Check out
their Course Assistant apps in subjects such as Algebra, Pre-Calculus, Discrete
Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics, Astronomy, Statistics and moreall designed to help
you ace your next class! (iOS, Android)
EasyBib: Citation Generator
Use EasyBib on your computer or mobile device to grab citations for research. They have
billions of citations and you can simply type in a book title or scan book barcodes with
your phones camera. You can choose from a variety of citation formats, including APA,
MLA, Chicago style, and many others. (iOS, Android)
Duolingo
Studying a foreign language? Then you wont want to miss out on Duolingo, a free app to
help you master your language and begin speaking it in no time. Duolingo allows you to
level up as you progress, turning an often difficult process into a game, and makes it fun
to learn and share your new skills with your friends. (iOS, Android, Windows phone)
Previous Chapter
Copyright 20092013 HowtoStudy.com

Home
About Us
Contact Us