Troy University Athletics
Keys to Academic Success
Most students want to do well in their academic endeavors, but only a few make outstanding grades. One reason for this is because many students do not develop a systematic approach to studying and learning. The student-athlete has a special concern in this matter because his/her sport requires so much time and work. If a routine can be developed, and if the best use of time is made, top academic honors can be achieved. The following are some suggestions which can help assure academic success.
Class Attendance. The first and perhaps most important step in academic success is class attendance. Go to class each day, be attentive and be prepared! Treat classes as practice; attitude and effort is everything. Student-athletes should actually have the upper hand at this for they must do it everyday with their particular sport. Take the same effort and enthusiasm for success into the classroom. Sit in the front of class, it will help you pay attention and show the instructor you care about the class.
Budget Time Wisely. Try making a chart of all available time for a typical week—day-by-day and hour-by-hour. Specify the times for classes, meals, team practice and games, study, sleep and recreation. It may be surprising to see how much time is available for study. The secret is to use that time wisely. Try to schedule time “religiously” for a week or two and make necessary revisions.
Effective Studying. These are “common sense” suggestions, but observing these requires self-discipline. Get enough sleep (but not too much). Eat properly and find the best place for study--- which may not be the residence hall room or the library. Use free hours between classes to study. Try to study each assignment three times (not counting reviews for tests): the day or night before the class, just before the class, and just after the class. Save times for regular reviews. Plan time for term papers and do them early. Do not miss class. Finally, don’t abandon a social life, but do not let it take precedence over academics.
Studying Assignments. Suggested steps for getting the most from an assignment:
Class Attendance. The first and perhaps most important step in academic success is class attendance. Go to class each day, be attentive and be prepared! Treat classes as practice; attitude and effort is everything. Student-athletes should actually have the upper hand at this for they must do it everyday with their particular sport. Take the same effort and enthusiasm for success into the classroom. Sit in the front of class, it will help you pay attention and show the instructor you care about the class.
Budget Time Wisely. Try making a chart of all available time for a typical week—day-by-day and hour-by-hour. Specify the times for classes, meals, team practice and games, study, sleep and recreation. It may be surprising to see how much time is available for study. The secret is to use that time wisely. Try to schedule time “religiously” for a week or two and make necessary revisions.
Effective Studying. These are “common sense” suggestions, but observing these requires self-discipline. Get enough sleep (but not too much). Eat properly and find the best place for study--- which may not be the residence hall room or the library. Use free hours between classes to study. Try to study each assignment three times (not counting reviews for tests): the day or night before the class, just before the class, and just after the class. Save times for regular reviews. Plan time for term papers and do them early. Do not miss class. Finally, don’t abandon a social life, but do not let it take precedence over academics.
Studying Assignments. Suggested steps for getting the most from an assignment:
- Skim through the assignment to get an idea of the total picture (Mark key areas).
- Read the introductory paragraphs carefully.
- When reading the second time, mark key parts of each paragraph or section. Make notes in the margin.
- As each paragraph is finished, make a note of the main idea of that paragraph.
- After all reading is complete, outline the entire passage.
- Go back over the assignment rapidly to get the total content.
- Try to anticipate exam questions on that section (and give satisfactory answers).
- Review weekly.
- Have a good notebook—probably loose-leaf, plenty of paper, and a pen.
- Be seated, ready to take notes, when class begins.
- Date notes each day.
- Don’t try to copy the instructor’s every word. Listen for main points; use phrases, be brief, get the key facts, and use your own words.
- Space the notes, leaving room for additions.
- Review the notes soon after class, before they get “cold”. Mark the most important points.
- Review the notes frequently during the term, and especially before an exam.
- Compare notes with those of other students in the class.
- Remember, studying before class makes note taking easier.
- Don’t slack off during the term.
- Review regularly throughout the term.
- Know what kind of exam it will be.
- Begin an intense review at least one week before the exam. Block out time for review in your schedule.
- Review the text and all notes.
- Construct sample questions and answer them.
- Confer with the instructor about any gaps in the subject matter.
- Try (discreetly) to get the instructor to commit on what should be reviewed.
- Get a good night’s sleep before the exam.
- Look over all the questions before beginning to write. Read the questions carefully.
- Do what is directed. Carefully observe words like outline, illustrate, define, name, list, and explain.
- Have the preferred kind of paper. Use ink if possible.
- If there is a choice of questions to answer, decide quickly and begin.
- Allot the appropriate time for each question.
- Organize your answers (on paper or in your head) before beginning.
- Be accurate. Write short, concise sentences; or use phrases if appropriate. Don’t “shoot the bull”. (However, if unsure, write something. Some credit may be given).
- Write legibly, correctly, neatly.
- Save a little time to review answers and to make sure nothing was omitted.