Office of Alcohol, Drug, and Health Education

Study Tips

Students who want help with studies, time management, or students with a disability, please email the Office of Academic Support or call x6224. The following tips are offered by Denison students and are based on experience.

Study Tips from Denison Students

Go to class.
Meet with your professors and advisor.
Get a planner. Use it. As soon as you receive the class syllabi, write due dates for papers and exams. Form the habit of checking the planner each day as well as for the week and month ahead.
Stay current or, preferably, ahead with the readings. If you get behind, see the professor right away.
Develop study groups. The best way to learn is to teach.
Go to the library after classes each day while still in the study mode. Finish as much studying as possible before evening.
Go to class.
From the very beginning, establish a reputation as a diligent worker. Faculty will recognize your efforts. Working hard at the beginning of the semester is easier than trying to catch up later.
Take good notes in class. Re-write or at least review the notes as soon as possible after class. Study your least favorite subject(s) first.
Go to class.
Do the reading before class.
When typing a paper or assignment on a computer save several times. Always make a hard copy when you stop for the day. Having duplicate disks is also a good idea.
NEVER leave an irreplaceable disk in an unattended backpack.
Use Spell-Check but double-check those homonyms.
Avoid all-nighters if possible, but if one is necessary designate someone who will be certain you are awake for the test or class. Don't rely on an alarm clock.
When you need to stay awake, exercise is much more effective than caffeine.
Use the Office of Academic Support, departmental tutors, the writing lab, and the many other resources available, especially professors.
Eat breakfast.
And, most importantly, go to class!

After the initial study tips were collected, many students offered additional ideas. With these and all such suggestions, use those which suit you best.

Be on time for class.
If, on a test, you encounter an essay question or problem you are unsure of, write what you do know and then return to the question later.
Create a quiet study environment. (national studies have shown that listening to Mozart actually enhances concentration.)
Set aside a regular study time, and don't answer the door or phone during that time.
When faced with lengthy difficult project such as a paper, divide the work into sections and spread the tasks throughout the weeks.
Don't drink during the week.
Sit in the front of the classroom.
Identify the times you study best.
Ask questions in class; also, listen to classmates' questions.
Get a good night's sleep.
Maintain notebooks with tab dividers and folders for each course; date each entry.
Kill your Play Station.

Additional help

Academic Support x6224
Writing lab (LRC) x6221
Counseling Center x6647
Tutoring Program x6224