Tiger Tools

• Organize- schedule and class materials
• Prepare- do the assigned reading or activity before your class session
• Engage- actively listen in class; take notes; ask questions; participate in discussion
• Review- look over your lecture notes within 24 hours from when you took them
• Identify an appropriate study environment and study time.
• Use mnemonic devices.
• Summarize class and textbook notes.
• Use context clues and word analysis to define unfamiliar words.
• Use index cards for vocabulary, formulas, or concepts.
• Study over a period of time rather than cramming.

• Set a weekly schedule for yourself before the first day of class each semester. 
  • First, schedule your "Must Do"- class; work; practices/rehearsals
  • Second, plug in your "Need To"- study (be specific as to when you study for each class); eat; sleep
  • Last, look at your open time and that is where your "Get To" goes. (i.e. X-Box; Facebook; naps)
• Map out your tests/papers/projects for the semester on your calendar in your phone or a planner.
  • Set deadlines for yourself for large papers or projects if your instructor does not set them for you (i.e. when you will have research done; outline; rough draft; etc.)
  • Begin studying for your next test at least a week before the test, make it manageable
• Make a to-do-list for week by week.
  • Each Friday, look at what is due for your next 7 class days
  • Make your to-do-list for the assignments or test prep and prioritize your tasks 

• Create a study schedule as soon as a test is scheduled.
• Go to ACE before you are struggling.
• Find out the format of the test (i.e. essay or multiple choice).
• Write a list of questions you think might be asked on the test.
• Form a study group to study with several days prior to test.
• Attend a “Power Hour” if ACE is hosting one for your class.
• Make a list of questions from notes and reading assignments that still don’t make sense and ask your professor for additional clarification.
• Get a good night sleep the night before and eat a healthy meal before the test.

• Read and follow all directions.
• Skim through the entire test before writing a word.
• Answer the easiest questions first.
• Know your time limit.
• Spend more time on the part that counts the most points.
• Read the questions carefully.
• Answer every question if there is no penalty for guessing.
• Ask for clarification, if permitted.
• Go back and check your answers, there is no prize for finishing first.
• Watch for words that may change the meaning of the question such as not, either/or, and always.
• Answer the written or essay questions neatly.

Reading comprehension is the ability to understand what you have read. In order to understand what you are reading, you must be able to know the vocabulary used, how the text is structured, and even the author's purpose behind the text. The following web pages provide a good definition of reading comprehension and the important reading processes which come together to help you comprehend. A common strategy to improve reading comprehension in a variety of non-fiction texts is offered by Lynchburg College at this link.

The internet truly has revolutionized research by providing so much information.  Reading on the internet requires the reader to use skill in evaluating what is there. The following link from OWL Purdue offers a process for evaluating internet content. If you're doing research or otherwise attempting to learn about a topic on the internet, consult their website first.