Study Tips

Determine your learning style. Click here for self-assessment tests to determine your learning style and other study skills assessments.

Use the SQ3R method of reading the textbook.

Read the chapters in the book before you come to class. I already assume you have done that! I simply do not have time to discuss every point in great detail. If you are not getting all of the notes in class, you may record my lectures so you can replay them over and over.

Re-write your notes in outline form, and make flashcards.

Read through your notes several times a week. You should be studying at least 3 hours/week (9 hours/week is best) for each class.

Have you actually been working the internet assignments before taking the quiz? They will help you understand the concepts better.

Learn the derivations for the terminology. Biology is like learning a new language, you must know what the words mean, and you must practice using them. Make up mnemonics (word association) to help you remember what the words mean and the organisms or concepts that they describe.

Test your understanding with practice quizzes. Your textbook website provides these in the CD-ROM that was provided with your textbook. Another good site is The Biology Project. Click here for more internet practice quizzes. Some really nice animations can be found here.

Come visit me during my office hours to see if we can customize a study routine that works for you!