Study tricks, tips and techniques, part II

As explained last time, it’s a fall ritual: my annual “trifecta,” three features I traditionally run at this time of the year. Not only has the “Study tips, tricks, and techniques” column been tweaked this year, but also there is so much to add that I have divided it into two installments, this being the second. My “college checklist” for seniors and parents will follow next time. And then my “anniversary” column as the Principal’s Office begins its seventh year.

As I’ve mentioned several times, this study tips column is the most requested. Parents tell me that they send copies to their students at college. At the same time, these techniques work for grade school children. I believe in them, because they worked for me as well as my students, children and now my granddaughter Rebecca. The goal is not to study more, but rather to make more efficient use of the time put in.

We covered tips one to five last time. Let’s complete the final five now.

6. Place a large calendar over your desk or purchase a daily planner. Enter all assignments: tests, quizzes, reports, projects, special events, due dates. No exceptions! I’ve seen deadlines creep up on students and catch them off guard. Most students, kindergarten through 12th grade, became accustomed to homework on a nightly basis.

In some high school courses and in most college classes, it’s completely different. Many assignments are long-range. Students who wait until the last minute miss deadlines, and their grades suffer. I recall receiving my course outlines as a college freshman and noting that most assignments weren’t due until October; I thought I had all the time in the world. Big mistake! I said it last time and I’ll say it again –– slow and steady wins the race.

7. Develop a routine. Last time I wrote about daily and weekly schedules. Elementary school parents –– please don’t misconstrue this to mean you should over-schedule your children. I do, however, recommend locking in blocks of time for study, in addition to unstructured playtime.