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College is a whole new academic world, and if you're a little scared that it will be difficult -- maybe even too hard for you -- don't be! Want to know how to ace any college subject? Read this, hold onto it, treasure it -- you'll realize how valuable it is if you're ever knee-deep in a college class catastrophe!

The Book Basics...
Read the chapter, lab procedure, or whatever else will be covered in class before you go. While waiting for the class to start, glance over your last set of notes to refresh yourself.

Go to class. (Yes, we have to say it!)

Take all of your homework seriously, even if it isn't graded or collected.

After class, spend about an hour reviewing your notes. Fill in what you remember but didn't have time to write down. Supplement any confusing areas by cross-referencing concepts in your textbook, calling a classmate, or marking it to ask your prof later.

Don't skip a prerequisite (a necessary introductory course). Higher ed' isn't a race. If you learn everything and learn well, you'll have the edge.

If you are lost in the lecture, or totally confused when reading the text, get help right away! College professors, study groups, and free tutors are all available to keep you from having to struggle. Hint: Schedule your tutor-time early to avoid pre-test rush.

Not everything said in class is in a book somewhere. Some classes don't even bother with textbooks! In that case, attending classes, asking questions, and visiting your prof during office hours are your best bets to success.

Numbers...
During most of the semester, math and physics-related subjects have a 'building effect.' That means you have to learn one week's material in order to understand the next. Needless to say, playing "catch-up" is a big no-no. Many valiant students have blown it by blowing off studying with thoughts of catching-up later. These types of classes generally consist of problem-heavy tests, ungraded homework, quizzes, and recitation sessions (extra class time each week devoted to reviewing homework). Warning: Working problems backwards from their solutions is a good way to learn, but not to study! Around test time, use the solution manual to figure out a sticky problem, but then try similar new problems until you get them right without the answers.

Scientific Stuff...
Classes like biology depend on notes and textbook readings. They may even feel like foreign language courses because there are so many new terms to learn. Hint: While reading, put each new word on a flashcard with its definition. As you progress through the book (and the course) these definitions will resurface, but you'll be ready and you'll have a great study aid for test time!

Human Nature...
These classes often do not fit into any one formula. They can be research paper intensive classes, or depend solely on quizzes and tests. And, since lecture material may not always be found in the book, take good notes. If you have papers to write for these classes, it will most likely require research at the library. Note: Published experiments -- psychology or otherwise -- tend to be confusing. Get help from an upperclassman, tutor, graduate student, or teaching assistant if you have difficulty.

Letters...
As you've probably guessed, these classes require heavy reading, many class discussions, and paper after paper after paper! Research may be less of a focus though, because you are expected to come up with your own unique ideas. Hint: These teachers want your opinion and want to see it in well thought-out arguments and theories -- thoroughly supported with facts that hold up to debate. The key is to not regurgitate the prof's lectures.

Languages...
Entry-level language classes in college are comprised of workbook-style homework, class participation, quizzes, time spent in language labs (for pronunciation), and tests. Warning: Oftentimes, the midterm or final requires you to write a cohesive paragraph in the language. Studying on a daily basis and speaking the language in class are key elements to becoming the creme de la creme of your foreign language class.


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Dawn Papandrea is the Managing Editor of The CollegeBound Network. Learn more about finding a school that's right for you.

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