studplan

Developing a Study Plan

For best results in your math class, you need to develop a plan of study and stick to it. It's best if you can develop your plan before your math course begins, but it's never too late! Here are some activities we suggest you include in your plan.

Make sure you have the prerequisites for the class you are taking.
Select a section of the class which is offered at a time you are most alert (if possible).
Devote a great deal of time and energy to the class from the first day.
Attend every class.
Sit front and center in the classroom.
Take good class notes.
- Date your notes and include chapter and section references to your textbook for each topic.
- Leave a 2-inch margin on the left side of each page so that you can add examples, comments, and clarifications when you go back over your notes.
- Write down everything your instructor writes and as much as you can of what s/he says.
- Keep writing even when you don't understand what is being said. After class talk to the teacher about the material you don't understand and revise your notes.
Review and revise your notes as soon as possible after class--certainly within 24 hours.
Study related textbook sections. Examine worked examples, cover them up, and rework them.
Do homework problems as soon as possible--certainly before the next class period. Make sure to do problems of all difficulty levels.
Ask your instructor or a tutor questions about any notes, text material, or problems you don't understand.
Make a separate study plan for math tests. Start preparing at least one week before the test.