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Step 1: Set Goals

Goals help to keep you going by:

1. Providing direction
2. Increasing your attention and focus
3. Increasing your motivation and effort
4. Reducing your anxiety and increasing your confidence

Develop SMART goals that are: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely

Step 2: Have a Positive Attitude

1. Be positive about your ability to succeed
2. Look forward to what you will learn
3. Have an inquiring mind: get curious about your subjects!

Step 3: Manage Your Time

1. Set a realistic schedule for yourself
2. Know where your time goes (awareness is key)
3. Study for 2-3 hours for every hour of class time (eg. if you have 6 hours of class per week, aim to study at least 12-18 hours per week).

Step 4: Read Textbooks & Course Readings

1. Survey chapters before reading; read the chapter summary, look for bold and italicized words to indicate important concepts
2. Review chapters and readings before class
3. Re-read chapter and readings after class
4. Make study notes

Step 5: Attend your Lectures

1. Intend to learn something each class you attend
2. Do assign readings before class- you'll take better notes
3. Ask questions: this will enhance your learning process
4. Sit in the first few rows - you'll pay closer attention

Step 6: Record your Lecture Notes

1. Take notes in class
2. Review and edit notes after class (within 24 hours)
3. Aim for 3-4 major reviews of your notes before exams
4. Highlight import points, draw diagrams, make definitions

Step 7: Prepare for Exams

1. Review past exams
2. Make practice study questions
3. Memorize definitions and formulae - try cue cards
4. Know the type of exam to expect
5. Eat balanced meals and sleep 8 hours per night

Step 8: Write Your Exams

1. Have a positive attitude; do your best
2. Arrive early with an extra pen and any necessary supplies (e.g., calculator if permitted - with fresh batteries)
3. Read test questions and instructions very clearly
4. Budget your time; leave time for review
5. Relax and don't forget to breathe