Pace Paw Print

Thomas Hobbes once said "study is nothing else but a possession of the mind." Almost every other week, if not every week, an exam is given in a class. For college students, their futures are based on passing exams, writing research papers, and going to class. For most students, studying can help them get those A's and B's, however, for others, studying will only get them as far as a C. Sometimes studying and test taking comes naturally, but others still need help on how to even go about studying. Well reading from the textbooks and handouts are a good way to refresh on the lectures, but students may find that technique boring and unhelpful.

For many students, the issue is not studying itself; it is the matter of how to even begin to study. Only the students themselves can develop a good studying and test taking habit that they will be comfortable with. Time management is very important, and students should plan to study a week or two before an exam. Allow enough time for play, but also more than enough time for studies. Decide what time of the day is best for studying; morning, afternoon, or night. Once the time of day is esatblished, decide on a place. The library is always a popular environment to study in; however, some students may feel more comfortable in their dormitory. Either way timing and location is key. It is good to always re-read class notes and/ or homework assignments.

Make sure that the information is clear and understanding. It is good to ask questions, set up a meeting time with the professor to better understand the lectures. The tutoring center, located on the third floor of the library, is another alternative. The tutoring center is a free service to all Pace students. "Take your time, don't panic, and do whatever you're most comfortable with. Some people prefer doing many practice problems the week before, others can only function if they are cramming. You have to find your own way of studying and stick to it," said junior math tutor Miguel Acobo.

Studygs.net has a study system called A.S.P.I.R.E.

A: Approach/attitude/arrange

• Approach your studies with a positive attitude
• Arrange your schedule to eliminate distractions

S: Select/survey/study!

• Select a reasonable chunk of material to study
• Survey the headings, graphics, pre- and post questions to get an overview
• Study marking any information you don't understand

P: Put aside/piece together:

• Put aside your books and notes
• Piece together what you've studied, either alone, with a study pal or group, and summarize what you understand.

I: Inspect/Investigate/inquire/:

• Inspect what you did not understand.
• Investigate alternative sources of information you can refer to: other text books, websites, experts, tutors, etc.
• Inquire from support professionals (academic support, librarians, tutors, teachers, experts,) for assistance

R: Reconsider/reflect/relay

• Reconsider the content: If I could speak to the author, what questions would I ask or what criticism would I offer?
• Reflect on the material: How can I apply this material to what I am interested in?
• Relay understanding: How would I make this information interesting and understandable to other students?

E: Evaluate/examine/explore:

• Evaluate your grades on tests and tasks look for a pattern
• Examine your process toward improving it
• Explore options with a teacher, support professional, tutor, etc.

Although this system might not work for all, students should still consider trying it. For some students, cramming might not be the best method, but it works. Either way, the library offers helpful and free workshops for test taking, study skills, note taking, and time management at the Research Assistant Center. Contact Allyson King at aking@pace.edu for more information.

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