Tips for Academic Success

Many students don’t know where to start when wanting to achieve success in the classroom. Read our tips below to start maximizing your success at the U of A!

In Class Tips

• Attend all classes.
• Read & prepare before class.
• Sit in the front of the classroom.
• Take effective notes.

Study Tips

• Review, edit, and reorganize your notes after class.
• Schedule weekly study time.
• Study at least 2 hours for every hour you sit in class.
• Space your study sessions, change subjects hourly, and divide the material.
• Study in a distraction-free environment.
• Study when your mind is most receptive to learning.
• Use active studying techniques.
• Use a five-day study plan for each exam. 
• Self test prior to exams.
• Use previous exams as a learning tool.

Campus Resources

• Tutors are available for 1-on-1 sessions and drop-in tutoring.
• Academic Coaches are available to work on study skills, time management, and more.
• Writing Studio Consultants are available for assistance on written work.
• The MRTC offers tutors, computers, and a quiet place for all university math students.
• University Libraries has resources available for all students, including research librarians, study spaces, and more.
• Go to your professor's office hours.

Wellness Tips

• Manage your health and social life.
• Evaluate your performance periodically.
• Get outside for sunshine and exercise.
• Drinks lots of water and eat well.
• On exam days, get up early, shower, drink coffee, and do practice problems. Take a 30 minute break before the exam begins.