Study Suggestions

1. Class Preparation.

a. Make sure you have read all sections assigned by your instructor for the next lecture.
b. Work through the examples presented by the author of your text and do not hesitate to work
    other problems from the exercises in order to prepare yourself for class.
c. It will be to your advantage to read more than what is assigned. Stay ahead of your instructor's
    lecture. Try to work some of the problems before they are covered in class.  Anticipate what your
    instructor's next step will be.
d. Ask questions in class! Other students may want to know the answers to the same questions that
    you have, but may be too shy to ask.
e. Visit your instructor during office hours and ask questions.  The instructor will be pleased to know
    that you are interested, and you will be helping yourself.

2. Homework.

a. The purpose of homework is to prepare you for chapter tests and for the final examination. Do
    not be lazy.  Math is learned by working problems.  The problems you work will help you learn
    formulas and techniques you need to know, as well as improve your problem-solving ability.
b. Make any necessary corrections on your homework when it is returned to you.
c. You should use your homework along with your lecture notes to prepare yourself for the tests.
d. Work more homework problems than are assigned. Remember that odd-numbered problems
     have answers in the back of your text so that you can check your results.

3. Review.

a. Do not procrastinate. It will be to your advantage if you begin to study for exams well before the
    day of the exam.  Each class builds on the previous ones, all semester long.  You must keep up
    with the instructor;  Attend class, read the text and do homework every day.  Falling behind puts
    you at  a disadvantage.

b. Continuously review topics that you have been having trouble mastering. See your instructor or
    the tutorial center for additional assistance. Do not wait until it is too late for assistance.

4. Preview.

a. As you review selected topics during the semester, it is also important that you attempt to work
    problems from subsequent exercises so that you are always one step ahead.
b. Ask questions on present and future topics.

5. Attitude.

a. It is much easier to accomplish a task if you exhibit confidence in yourself.
b. Learn from your mistakes and remember that it is not over until you give up trying.
c. Make an honest commitment to attend each class, do your daily work, actively participate
    in class, and read the text carefully.
d. Do not hesitate to go to your instructor if you need a question answered.

Return to Home Page