Managing your time and life in general is a task you can develop in college and practice as a life-long skill.  

1. Identify Time Wasters

• Track how you are currently spending your time - use this time management grid
  • Time Managment Grid
• Identify when you are using your time wisely and when you could be more efficient and most productive
• Consider taking breaks from your phone/watching tv/gaming to spend more time on your studies

2. Create a Schedule

• Design an intentional plan of when you will work on each course using the same time management grid
  • Time Managment Grid
• Arrange time for classes, work, commuting, family, social obligations and sleep
• Prioritize time for coursework when you know you will be alert and focused
• Evaluate how much time you are spending on each class – a minimum of two hours each week for every hour you spend ‘in the class’ is recommended

3. Use a Planner or Phone App

• Find a calendar system that works for you – daily, weekly or monthly
• Log all assignments, exams, appointments and important dates on your calendar/planner
• Reference your planner regularly so you don’t miss any deadlines
• Set reminders on your phone to keep up with tasks

4. Stay Organized

• Utilize binders or online tools to keep all pertinent materials accessible
• Write frequent to-do lists to keep on task, ranking the importance of items
  • To Do List
• Designate a spot for everything in your home, study space, and car
• Establish a place to study that works well for you and has all the supplies you need at hand. This could be at home, on campus, or a local library or coffee shop, for example.

5. Do One Thing at a Time

• Give each important task its own time - studies show that multi-tasking really doesn’t work
• Eliminate distractions (i.e., your phone) so you can keep your focus
• Divide larger assignments into more manageable chunks (ex: 80 pages of reading can be divided into 20 pages over 4 days)

6. Establish Routines

• Develop habits of when and where you study to help you stick to your schedule
• Maintain a routine with exercise, meal preparation, and other personal tasks as well
• Include time to preview material prior to class and review notes after class

7. Take Breaks

• Reward yourself with downtime after you have spent focused time on your studies

8. Learn to Delegate

• Share household tasks with others to lighten your load and ask for help with childcare, errands or other responsibilities

9. Remain Flexible

• Alter your schedule as needed – each week (or semester) can provide new opportunities and challenges
• Work ahead as much as possible, allowing for interruptions and being prepared if a last-minute setback interrupts your plan
• Communicate any changes in your schedule with others, especially your faculty, so they can support you as best as they can

Reviewed 8.8.24 RAJ

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Download, save, and use these templates as often as you would like.

Here are some effective test-taking tips to help you perform your best:

Before the Test

1. Prepare Thouroughly
   • Study Regularly: Don’t cram. Study consistently over time.
   • Review Notes: Regularly review class notes and highlight key points.
   • Understand the Format: Know the format of the test (multiple-choice, essays, short answers) to tailor your preparation.
2. Organize Study Sessions
   • Study Groups: Join study groups to discuss and clarify difficult concepts.
   • Tutoring: Seek help from tutors or professors if you have questions.
3. Create Study Aids
   • Flashcards: Use flashcards for quick review of important terms and concepts.
   • Summarize: Create summaries of each topic to review key points.
   • Sample Questions: Practice answering sample questions to familiarize yourself with the course material.
4. Take Care of Your Health
   • Sleep Well: Ensure you get enough sleep, especially the night before the test.
   • Healthy Diet: Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated.
   • Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and improve concentration.

During the Test

1. Read Instructions Carefully
   • Understand Requirements: Read all instructions thoroughly before starting the test.
   • Clarify Doubts: Ask the instructor if you have any questions about the test format or instructions.
2. Manage Your Time
   • Allocate Time: Divide your time according to the number of questions and their difficulty.
   • Watch the Clock: Keep an eye on the time, but avoid constant clock-watching that can increase anxiety.
3. Answer Strategically
   • Start Easy: Begin with questions you know well to build confidence.
   • Skip and Return: If stuck on a question, move on and return to it later if time permits.
   • Review Answers: If time allows, review your answers, especially for questions you were unsure about.
4. Stay Calm and Focused
   • Deep Breaths: Take deep breaths to stay calm and reduce anxiety.
   • Stay Positive: Maintain a positive attitude and remind yourself that you are well-prepared.

After the Test

1. Reflect and Review
   • Analyze Performance: Reflect on your performance and identify areas for improvement.
   • Seek Feedback: Review your test with the instructor to understand any mistakes.
2. Adjust Study Habits
   • Revise Study Plans: Adjust your study plans based on what worked well and what didn’t.
   • Set Goals: Set specific goals for your next test preparation.

By implementing these test-taking tips, you can enhance your preparation and performance, reducing anxiety and increasing your chances of success.

What is a syllabus?

A syllabus is a document that outlines all the essential information about a college course. It lists the topics you will study, as well as the due dates of any coursework including tests, quizzes, or exams.

Your professors will give you a syllabus for each of your college classes. The syllabus is often reviewed by the professors on the first day of class. Read each one carefully to learn about grading policies, professor office hours, and everything else you need to know, to perform successfully in your course. Pay close attention to all requirements.

Contents of a Syllabus

1. Instructor Information
   • Name of instructor
   • Instructor contact information
   • Office hours
2. Course Schedule
   • Assignment due dates
   • Test/quiz dates
   • All other course work for the course homework, labs, essays, projects etc.
3. Policies/Expectations
   • Grading
   • Attendance requirements
   • College Policies
   • Academic Honesty
   • How Disability Services support can be requested
4. Reading Materials and Supplies
   • Books list
   • On-line resources
   • Additional recommended or required tools-calculator, software etc.

But the syllabus serves a greater purpose than merely disseminating knowledge. A syllabus serves as a binding agreement between the professor and the students. Students can learn more about the subject and the professor by thoroughly reading the syllabus.

Great tips:
1. You can print out the syllabus for each class and keep it in a binder, or just bookmark it for easy access online. That way, any time you have questions, you know exactly where to look.
2. Review all of your syllabi at the beginning of the semester and enter important due dates into your calendar.

Using college textbooks effectively can significantly enhance your learning experience and academic success. Here are some tips:

1. Active Reading
   • Preview the Chapter: Skim through headings, subheadings, summaries, and review questions before diving into the text to get an overview of the material.
   • Highlight and Annotate: Use a highlighter for key points and write notes in the margins (if you own the book!) to summarize important concepts or ask questions.
2. Take Organized Notes
   • Cornell Method: Divide your paper into two columns: one for notes and one for cues/questions. Summarize the main ideas at the bottom.
   • Mind Mapping: Create visual diagrams to organize information and show relationships between concepts.
   • Use an app: There are various apps to help organize notes like Evernote or Microsoft OneNote.
3. Use Supplementary Resources
   • Online Resources: Use supplementary materials like online tutorials, videos, and quizzes that often accompany textbooks.
   • Study Groups: Discussing and explaining material to peers can reinforce your understanding.
   • Connect with HACC Tutors: Peer and professional tutors can help to review further understanding of topics.
4. Review Regularly
   • Schedule Reviews: Plan regular review sessions to revisit and reinforce what you have learned.
   • Practice Tests: Take practice quizzes and tests to gauge your understanding and retention.
5. Connect with the Material
   • Relate to Real Life: Find real-life applications of the concepts to make the material more interesting and memorable.
   • Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to ask professors or peers for clarification on topics you find challenging.
6. Utilize End-of-Chapter Resources
   • Summary and Review Questions: Pay attention to chapter summaries and end-of-chapter questions to test your understanding.
   • Glossaries: Use the glossary for quick reference to key terms and concepts.
7. Active Participation in Class
   • Pre-Reading: Read assigned chapters before class to better understand lectures and participate in discussions.
   • Engage: Actively participate in class discussions and ask questions about confusing topics.
   • Review: Review readings after class to connect material.
8. Seek Help When Needed
   • Use Tutors: Utilize tutoring services offered by your college.
   • Office Hours: Visit professors during their office hours for additional help and clarification. You can find this information on the course syllabus.

By incorporating these strategies into your study routine, you can maximize the effectiveness of your textbook and enhance your learning experience in college.

Reviewed 8.7.24 - RAJ

Taking notes not only provides important material for studying, it can also help to stay active during class. The goal when taking notes is to understand what the instructor is saying, not to try to record exactly everything they say.

1. Prepare before class:
   • Review course materials:Read assigned materials and review previous notes to build a background understanding of the topic.
   • Bring the right tools:Have notebooks, pens, highlighters, and digital devices ready.
2. During the lecture:
   • Organize your note-taking:
     • Start each new lecture on a new page, and date and number each page. The sequence of material is important.
     • Write on one side of the paper only. You can set the pages out side-by-side for easier reviewing when studying for an exam.
   • Choose an effective note-taking method:
     • Cornell Note-Taking System: Divide the page into sections for notes, key points, and summaries.
     • Outlining Method: Organize notes in a hierarchical structure, using headings and subheadings to differentiate main topics from subtopics.
     • Mapping Method: Create a visual representation of the material, such as mind maps, to show relationships between concepts.
   • Focus on key points:
     • Don’t write everything; listen for facts, connections, main ideas. Your goal is to understand what the instructor is saying, not to try to record exactly everything said.
     • Keep notes brief by using phrases or keywords.
     • If you miss a statement, try writing key words, then skip a few spaces, and get the information later.
   • Use visual aids:
     • Use diagrams and mind maps to represent information visually. This helps in understanding complex concepts and relationships between ideas.
     • Use tables and charts to organize information, particularly useful for comparisons and categorization.
   • Develop a system:
     • Use abbreviations and symbols to save time.
     • Highlight important points and vocabulary to review later.
3. After class:
   • Review and rewrite notes promptly:
     • Research indicates that 80% of new material can be recalled if you review notes within the first 24 hours of presentation.
     • Fill in the gaps and clarify unclear points.
     • Rewrite (or re-type) your notes to improve retention.
   • Organize and Compare:
     • Put notes into a logical sequence.
     • Compare notes with a classmate to pick up on things you may have missed.
   • Summarize and Connect:
     • Write summaries of each lecture and connect new information to what you have already learned.
     • Identify any gaps in understanding that need further clarification by the instructor.

Reviewed 7.31.24 - RAJ

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Homework in college is designed to deepen understanding of course material, develop critical thinking and research skills, and prepare students for exams and future coursework.

Most Common Types of Homework in Higher Education

• Discussion posts - Participating in forums or discussion boards, often for online or hybrid courses.
• Essays - Writing assignments that require research, analysis, and critical thinking.
• Projects - Longer-term assignments that may involve research, collaboration, and presentations.
• Problem sets - Exercises or problems to solve, often found in math, science, or engineering courses.
• Labs - Practical or experimental work, especially in science courses.

In college, you will be expected to do most learning on your own. The general rule is: For every one hour in class, plan to spend two hours out of class reading, studying, and completing assignments.

Best Approaches to Complete Assignments

1. Create a schedule:
   • Plan ahead: Use a planner or digital calendar to schedule time for homework and stick to the plan as much as possible.
   • Prioritize tasks: Rank assignments by due date and difficulty to ensure time is spent on the most important tasks first.
2. Break it down:
   • Chunking: Divide larger assignments into smaller, manageable sections to make them less overwhelming.
   • Set milestones: Establish deadlines for each section to keep yourself on track.
3. Avoid procrastination:
   • Start early: Begin assignments as soon as they are given to avoid last-minute stress.
   • Use timers: Implement techniques like the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of work followed by a 5-minute break) to maintain focus.

Effective Study Habits

1. Find a good work environment:
   • Quiet space: Choose a distraction-free place where you can focus. Silence cell phone to give undivided attention during study and work time.
   • Comfortable setup: Ensure you have a comfortable chair, good lighting, and all necessary materials.
2. Active learning:
   • Engage with material: Take notes, highlight important information, and summarize what has been learned.
   • Teach back: Explain the material to someone else or to yourself to reinforce understanding.

Utilize Resources

1. Use available resources:
   • Library and online Databases: Access academic journals, books, and other resources provided by your college library.
   • Tutoring services: Take advantage of tutoring center or online tutoring services for additional help.
   • HACC Tutoring
2. Seek help when needed:
   • Office hours: Attend professors’ office hours to ask questions and get clarification. Faculty office hours should be notated on the course syllabus.
   • Study groups: Collaborate with classmates to discuss and solve difficult problems.

Effective Techniques

1. Practice Consistently:
   • Regular review: Regularly review your notes and course materials to reinforce learning.
   • Practice problems Complete additional exercises to master complex concepts.
2. Stay organized
   • Keep materials organized: Maintain organized notes, folders, and files for each class.
   • Track progress: Monitor your progress on assignments and study goals.

Health and Well-being

1. Take Care of Yourself:
   • Sleep Well: Get enough rest to maintain focus and productivity.
   • Stay Active: Incorporate physical activity to boost energy and reduce stress.
   • Eat Healthily: Maintain a balanced diet to keep your mind and body in optimal condition.

By integrating these strategies into your routine, you can manage your college-level homework more effectively and enhance your overall academic performance.

Reviewed 7.31.24 - RAJ

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Setting goals and staying motivated is a key element to success in college and in life. Having specific, measurable goals helps us to achieve short and long-term objectives.

1. Reflect on your values/priorities/your ‘why’
   • Complete this brief quiz to help you define your values
   • Recognize your ‘why’ influences nearly everything you think and do
   • Consider how your priorities drive your motivation as you pursue your educational goals
   • Embrace your ‘why’ - what gets you up in the morning, your purpose in life, what you are striving for
2. Learn to make Value x Expectation = Motivation work for you
   • For example: if you value effective writing and you expect to do well in your English class, you will be motivated to succeed
   • If you cannot place a high importance on a task you need to do, you will be less motivated to accomplish it
   • Recognize the worth of each assignment and course in getting you one step closer to your goals
   • Expecting the best from yourself is a key part of this equation (affirmations can help!)
   • Visualize what you want to achieve and revisit that physical or mental image frequently (ex: an exceptional grade on your next paper, you in your nursing uniform, the car you will buy with your income as a teacher)
3. Establish educational, career and life goals
   • Formulate SMART goals
     • S=Specific detailed goals are met more frequently
     • M=Measurable include a percentage or grade you would like to achieve, as an example
     • A=Achievable be realistic as you set your goals
     • R=Relevant let every goal relate back to what you value most in life
     • T=Time-bound goals with a set deadline are more likely to be accomplished
   • Break down long-term goals into smaller, short-term goals that are more manageable
   • Reset goals as needed – once one goal has been achieved, plan for the next one
4. Acknowledge your ability to achieve your goals – the E in VxE = M
   • Create affirmations to support your confidence
   • Surround yourself with positive people who will encourage you
   • Compose a mantra or inspirational quote to guide you (post it on your mirror, in your car, as your screensaver or say it out loud)
5. Reward yourself as you attain your goals
   • Choose small and larger rewards depending on the magnitude of your goal
   • Rewards can be related to self-care or more tangible items
   • Enlist your support network to participate in your incentives

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1. Create a Study Schedule: Having a consistent study routine helps to manage your time more effectively.
   • Use a planner: Write down all assignments, exams, and important dates.
   • Schedule study sessions: Space out study time into small, short chunks of time throughout the week. No last minute cramming!
   • Establish study session goals: Ask yourself, “What is the goal for this session?” and stick to the plan.
   • Set specific times: Focus on high-priority tasks first and break down larger tasks into manageable chunks.
   • Use a calendar or app: Tools like Anki or Quizlet can help with scheduling and reminders.
   • Checklists Create daily or weekly to-do lists to track your progress and cross off completed tasks.
2. Review and Revise Regularly: Regular review reinforces learning and helps retain information long-term.
   • Ask “HOW?” and “WHY?” questions: Dig deeper into the material by asking how things work and why they are the way they are.
   • Relate to Prior Knowledge: Connect new information to what you already know.
   • Summarize: Summarize concepts in your own words and explain them in detail.
   • See it and hear it: Say the information out loud. Using multiple senses (sight, hearing, and speaking) can enhance learning and help to remember concepts better.
   • Visual aids: Use diagrams, charts, and images alongside notes.
   • Mind maps: Create mind maps to visually organize information.
   • Illustrated notes: Use drawings and symbols along with notes. Copy from textbooks or draw a picture of your own.
   • Create a study guide: Formulate questions and problems and write complete answers. Use your text as questions may be included with each chapter.
3. Practice and Self-Test: Actively engaging with the material helps deepen understanding and retention.
   • Test yourself: Put away notes and write out, or draw, everything you know about a topic. Then check course material to see what you may have missed.
   • Practice quizzes: Create or use existing quizzes to test your knowledge.
   • Flashcards: Use physical or digital flashcards to quiz yourself.
   • Teach Someone Else: Explaining concepts to others forces you to recall and articulate information clearly. If you are not able to explain the information to another person, it may mean you have not fully grasped or understood the material. Keep practicing!
4. Join or Create a Study Group: Studying with peers can provide support, motivation, and different perspectives.
   • Form a group: Find classmates who are serious about studying and have similar goals.
   • Share resources: Exchange notes and study materials.
   • Collaborative learning: Discuss and explain concepts to each other.

Keep in Mind:

• Stay organized: Keep track of your study schedule and materials.
• Minimize distractions: Find a quiet, dedicated study space either on or off campus.
• Take breaks: Use the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of studying followed by a 5-minute break) to maintain focus.
• Stay healthy: Ensure you get enough sleep, exercise, and proper nutrition to keep your brain functioning optimally.

Reviewed 7.31.24 - RAJ

Succeeding in online college classes requires a combination of self-discipline, effective time management, and utilizing available resources. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

1. Create a Dedicated Study Space
   • Quiet and Comfortable: Choose a spot that is comfortable enough for long study sessions.
   • Distraction-Free Zone:Put your phone away, turn off the TV, and choose a spot that is free from interruptions.
   • Supplies Ready: Keep all necessary supplies, such as textbooks, notebooks and pens within reach.
2. Create a Study Schedule
   • Consistent Schedule: Establish a consistent daily or weekly study routine.
   • Time Blocks: Allocate specific time blocks to review class material, to work on homework and to study.
   • Breaks: Include short breaks to avoid burnout and keep your mind fresh.
3. Practice Good Time Management
   • Prioritize Tasks: List tasks in order of importance and deadlines.
   • Use Tools: Employ tools like calendars, planners, or apps to track your schedule and deadlines.
   • Avoid Procrastination: Break tasks into smaller steps to make them more manageable and avoid putting things off.
4. Participate in Online Discussions
   • Active Participation: Engage in discussions, ask questions, and group chats with classmates.
   • Take Notes: Jot down key points during lectures to reinforce learning.
5. Utilize Available Resources
   • Peer support: Reach out to classmates or study groups for support and collaboration. digital libraries, research databases, and other resources provided by your institution.
   • Tutoring and Support Services: Make sure you use online tutoring services for additional help with your classes.
   • D2L Tutorial: Review the D2L orientation to become familiar with the D2L platform.
6. Stay Connected with Instructors
   • Communication: Regularly communicate with your instructors via email or virtual office hours.
   • Feedback: Ask for feedback on your assignments and performance to identify areas for improvement.
7. Stay Organized
   • Digital Folders: Organize your files and assignments in digital folders by subject.
   • Checklists: Use checklists to keep track of completed and pending tasks.
8. Take Care of Yourself
   • Healthy Habits: Maintain a balanced diet, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly.
   • Mental Health: Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, and seek help if you're feeling overwhelmed.
9. Stay Motivated
   • Set Goals: Establish both short-term and long-term academic goals.
   • Reward Yourself: Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small.

By implementing these tips, you can effectively manage your online college classes and achieve academic success.