It's that time of year again. We are four to five weeks into the semester and everyone is stressing about their workload. Some are dealing with scheduling conflicts and others are just overwhelmed with how much effort has to be put into some classes. I will say that the most important thing is to make sure you are studying and studying well.

Studying will do you absolutely no good if you aren't doing it in a way that is actually helping you to retain and learn the material. Find a way that works best for you. What works well for your friend might not help you. For instance, flashcards are a common way to study terms and definitions but they don't always help some.

You can adapt the simple version of learning flashcards into a game that could make it easier. Quizlet even allows you to make flashcards online and then play games with the sets you have created. I know I like to make study guides. It helps me rewrite information I've already seen and then be able to review it later in a way that I have created.

The environment you choose to study in also has a big effect on whether or not you are actually retaining what you are looking at. If you get distracted easily then you should create a place that is totally distraction free. I tend to go to the library because it's quiet and if I'm in my room I feel inclined to turn the television on and avoid studying.

If you purposely put yourself in a place where you have no choice but to get out your books and study then you will be successful. It doesn't have to be the library, it can be the lounge, outside, just somewhere you know you will actually use your books.

Some people have trouble studying alone. Have no fear, just find a study group. Make friends with people in your classes and make plans to meet up and review the material for your classes. You can even find someone not in your class and have them quiz you on information you have learned. Having people around you that want to be successful in their classes will encourage you to want to do the same.

Carve out time to study as well. I know you have all those club meetings and fun events, trust me I do too, but make time to study. If it's just an hour here or there it will do you some good to focus on school and it will do your grades some good as well.

If you have a break between classes pull out the material for your next class and just review it. Seeing a student that is prepared and ready to engage in discussion is something that makes professors happy.

Just remember you are in school to further your education and make strides in your career path. If you aren't studying and doing so in an efficient manner you could be putting your grades at risk. Keep up with both your school and social life and everything will run smoothly.