Customize Your Studying

I was asked to give some pointers on studying while in college, however, it is difficult to give straightforward advice. I believe to be successful in college everyone should customize the way they study to cater to their personal needs.

My roommate during my freshman year found it easiest to get up bright and early the day of an exam and cram at the last minute. He had success doing this, I did not. I tried the “cram method” once and realized while taking the exam that I needed to prepare much differently. I also realized, when I got the graded exam back from the professor (with a frowning face by my score) that everyone needs to have a customized study plan. As a student you should find out what works best for you.


I now start three days before the test by making flashcards with important terms or concepts, reading the textbook while highlighting important parts and continuously writing out acronyms that I have made up if there is a list of words I need to remember. I also need to study in an atmosphere that is very quiet. While I was living in the dorms I usually used the lounge area to study, but now that I no longer live in the dorms I use the library because I know nothing will distract me. However, some students are able to study in their dorm room or apartment and have much success.

My last tip for customizing your own study habits is to ask questions.The material you are studying may be foreign and hard to understand, so questions are inevitable. Professors and teachers are more then willing to help you by addressing your questions (most of the time) as long as they can see that you tried to answer the question yourself by reading the textbook or attending class.

Whatever method you decide works best, follow that method strictly and be careful not to start slacking as the semester comes to a close. Click here for additional studying tips from the Virginia Tech website.