Show up to every class on time and always come prepared. Make sure you’ve done the homework and reading assignments, and that you have everything you’ll need for class that day. Sit in the front of the class room and be involved in class. Listen actively, respond to questions, and ask questions if there’s any material you’re confused or uncertain about.
Start each day’s notes on a fresh page in your notebook and write down the date and most recent reading assignment. This will help you track the material as you prepare for exams. Write anything that your instructor puts on the board. These notes are usually very important and often quoted verbatim on quizzes or tests. You don’t have to write out every word your instructor says - this may not even be possible, depending on the class. Instead, write down the major points, like any important names, dates, events, relevant details, and results/implications. Try to develop a system of abbreviations that works for you. Writing your notes in short-hand can help you take notes faster and with greater efficiency.
You may also find questions or inconsistencies in the days’ notes that you can ask your teacher to clarify the next day.
Try writing questions in your notes. Interrogating the material, rather than simply glossing over it, will help you commit that information to memory and develop stronger critical-thinking skills.
Use a calendar or planner to help you keep track of deadlines, appointments, and other obligations. Don’t procrastinate. You won’t actually buy yourself any time, and you’ll just be even more stressed later on. Break your tasks down into smaller, more manageable parts. This can help make a big project much easier to accomplish. [5] X Research source Have a timeline for the things you need to accomplish and work on those tasks in a logical order. Decide which tasks are a priority and which tasks/projects need to be completed before the next can be started.
Start studying early. Avoid procrastinating and cramming right before a test/exam. Try to understand the material both broadly and precisely. Start out with the general concept and work towards understanding the details of each subject. Test yourself as you study to determine which subject areas need more work. Use flash cards to review terms/names/dates, then design a self-quiz to see if you have a firm grasp on the material.
Keep track of your grade in the course and recognize patterns of poor grades. Your instructor may not address your grades unless you bring them up. Start meeting with your teacher first to get some extra help. If you feel like you need more support, talk to your school counselor. Try working with a tutor if you’re really struggling with an important concept. You may be able to find a tutor through your school, or you can find one in your area by searching online. Start studying for tests or quizzes two weeks in advance or as soon as you’re notified. Start studying for midterms or finals at least six weeks ahead.
Give credit for any sources you use in your homework and assignments. Never plagiarize or steal intellectual/creative property from others. Finish your assignments on time, and give yourself a few extra days to review the final product and make any necessary revisions. Respect the ideas, beliefs, and opinions of others, even if you disagree with them. Everyone deserves respect as well as a support, welcoming environment where they can learn. Always conduct yourself in a respectful and appropriate manner, and never make excuses for your behavior. Taking responsibility involves both the good and the bad outcomes of your choices.
Find a job that’s willing to work with your school schedule. Not all employers are flexible, so let them know up front that your education is a priority. Manage your time. Make sure you don’t put off homework or projects until after work, as you may be too tired to do homework after a long shift. Try to stay balanced. Make some time on weekends or after school on weekdays to do fun things you enjoy like spending time with friends. Figure out a realistic budget that balances your expenses against your income and stick to that budget. You can find budget planning help online, or by talking to a guidance counselor at your school. [9] X Research source
You can find current information on many different careers by reading through the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) website. [11] X Trustworthy Source US Bureau of Labor Statistics U. S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information Go to source You can also try talking to working professionals in the field you’re considering.
The general rule of thumb for students is that any loans you’ll need to repay each month should not exceed eight percent of your anticipated gross monthly income. Think about what your anticipated career is, and look into what someone just entering that field can realistically expect to make each month in their first year of employment. If you’re in college or planning on attending college, look into financial aid that you won’t have to repay. For example, try to get any grants, scholarships, and work-study positions your school offers. If you won’t be able to afford your loan repayment, think about other alternatives to taking out a loan. You can work a second job, try to pay off your finances in installments, or ask a trusted friend or relative to lend you the money.
Many schools offer internships to students. If not, you can find internships in your area by searching online or reading through the classifieds section in your local paper. Find out about networking events by joining relevant clubs and talking to working professionals in your desired field.
Girls under age 13 should aim for around 2,000 calories each day, while boys in the same age range should aim for approximately 2,200 calories. Girls ages 14 to 18 should be getting approximately 2,300 calories each day, while boys in that age range should be getting around 3,000 calories. Students age 19 and up should aim for around 2,400 calories each day for women and around 3,000 calories each day for men.
Bicycle riding, jumping rope, walking, jogging/running, and most organized sports are excellent forms of exercise for adolescents and young adults. If you’re pressed for time, even just 20 to 30 minutes of vigorous walking or jogging can help relieve stress and burn calories. [17] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening to get a better night’s sleep. Alcohol can also disrupt your sleep, so try to drink in moderation (if you’re of legal drinking age) or avoid alcohol altogether. Turn off all electronic devices, including cellphones, tablets, computers, and televisions, at least 30 minutes before bed. [19] X Research source The glow of electronic screens can disrupt your body’s production of melatonin, making it harder to sleep at night. Find something relaxing to do before bed every night, such as reading, meditation, or exercise. Be aware, though, that exercise may wake some people up, and might be best reserved for the morning. Stick to the same sleep schedule every day, even on weekends and days off. That means going to bed at the same time each night and getting up at the same time every morning.
Even second-hand smoke from others can cause health problems over time. It’s best to avoid smoke altogether to protect your health.
