Let's be honest, not all college classes can be treated the same. There's the ones you never have to show up for like golf and there you have financial accounting that takes attending every class and still never understanding balance sheets. These are the top ways to get through the classes that you find nearly impossible to pass.
1. Go to class everyday.
Even if it starts at 8 in the morning and you are cranky and tired, always go to class. This is your first way to understanding the material. Yes it can be easier to just watch the online presentation when your professor posts it, but physically being in class reportedly shows the greatest improvement in performance.
2. Take notes by hand.
It may be tempting to type away at your laptop while your professor lectures, but writing your notes by hand excites the brain. Those students who choose to write by hand also outperformed the ones who typed their notes, so keep your pens handy.
3. Ask your professor for help.
Check when your professor has office hours and go talk to them about study techniques, what material they will exam you on, and what you can do to improve your grades. They teach the class so they know how you can ace the class best.
4. Form a study group.
Chat up a few students in your class and see if they are willing to meet up a few days prior to an exam to review notes. You can learn more information and study what you have written down with more people.
5. Type out a study guide.
As you gear up for a big exam, make a thorough study guide for each chapter. Writing it down helps or typing it out and leaving blanks to fill in multiple times can help you memorize the material.
6. Study for exams at least a week in advance.
The longer you study for something the more knowledge you will gain! It may seem like a lot of effort to study a week ahead of a test, but it will help you determine what you know and what you need to practice.
7. Make online flashcards.
Utilize websites like Quizlet to make flashcards for your exams. The class you are in may also have flashcards made by previous students.
8. Find a tutor.
Your university should have free tutors at the ready to help you with homework issues. Book a few tutoring sessions in advance.
9. Study with music.
Studies show that studying while listening to music can actually improve your attention and memory.
10. Before dropping the class, weigh your options.
Talk to an adviser if you don't see yourself performing well in the class. You two and discuss the options you have to either push through the class or take it somewhere else.
11. Get plenty of sleep.
Your body needs to be well rested in order to function! Staying up late and cramming can work for some people, but in order to consistently do well in your difficult classes it's imperative that you get at least 6-8 hours of sleep.
12. Eat the right foods.
Brain foods are a real thing. Healthy fruits and veggies can add to your material memorization. Blueberries and nuts are two great foods to boost your focus.
13. Pay attention in class.
Keep your phone away from you during class because it is such an easy temptation to scroll through Facebook. Shutting it off and tossing it in your bag will be a huge benefit to your learning so you are no longer distracted.
14. Make sacrifices.
You may want to stay in and study for your exam instead of going to get dinner with your friends. This is never fun because FOMO is real and you will feel as if you are missing out on a good time, but in the end your 'A' will be well deserved.
15. Practice, practice, practice.
Especially for math exams, practicing the problems from a study guide will make you know how to solve the problems in your sleep. Buy a notebook specifically to practice the material in so you can always keep memorizing what to do!
