To do well on a test, you must have good knowledge of the information that is being tested. But you must also have a strategy for taking the test that allows you to show what you know. The DETER strategy can help you do your best on any test. Each letter in DETER reminds you what to do.
D = Directions
Read the test directions very carefully.
Ask your teacher to explain anything about the test directions you do not understand.
Only by following the directions can you achieve a good score on the test.
If you do not follow the directions, you will not be able to demonstrate what you know.
E = Examine
Examine the entire test to see how much you have to do.
Only by knowing the entire task can you break it down into parts that become manageable for you.
T = Time
Once you have examined the entire test, decide how much time you will spend on each item.
If there are different points for items, plan to spend the most time on the items that count for the most points.
Planning your time is especially important for essay tests where you must avoid spending so much time on one item that you have little time left for other test items.
E = Easiest
The second E in DETER reminds you to answer the items you find easiest first.
If you get stuck on a difficult item that comes up early in the test, you may not get to answer items that test things you know.
R = Review
If you have planned your time correctly, you will have time to review your answers and make them as complete and accurate as possible.
Also make sure to review the test directions to be certain you have answered all items required.
Using the DETER strategy will help you do better on tests and get better grades.
Monday, October 22, 2007
A Strategy for Reading Novels
A story is a fictitious tale that is written to entertain, amuse, or instruct the reader. A novel is the same as a story but it is longer and more complex. To understand a story or novel, you need to understand the six elements used by authors when they write a story or novel.
Characters
Characters are the first element to look for when reading a story or novel. Characters are most often people but can be animals or even fictionalized beings like those seen in cartoons or movies. The main character plays the biggest role and is often the first character to be introduced. Most often the story is seen through the eyes of the main character. Secondary characters play a smaller supporting role and are introduced throughout the story.
Setting
The setting is the second element you should look for when reading a story or novel. The setting is the location where the story takes place. A story may take place in a home, countryside, town, school, or wherever the author chooses to have the action occur. The setting is usually revealed very early in a story.
Time
The time when the story takes place is the third element you should look for when reading a story or novel. A story may take place very recently or many years ago. Usually the time when the story takes place is introduced very early in the story.
Problem
The problem is the fourth element you should look for in a story or novel. The problem most often grows out of a conflict between the main character and another character in the story. But the problem can also involve a circumstance such as a hurricane, a war, or one of the many obstacles that produce a conflict in life.
Events
Events are the fifth element you should look for when reading a story or novel. An event is an attempt at solving the problem in the story. In a story there are usually a number of attempts to solve the problem and these events make up most of the story.
Solution
A solution is the sixth and final element in a story or novel. The solution is how the problem is resolved or brought to an end. Most often the solution is revealed near the end of the story. Sometimes the solution is not revealed until the very last page or even the final paragraph of the story.
Recognizing these story elements will help you better understand and enjoy a story, remember the story facts, and appreciate different writing styles used by authors.
Characters
Characters are the first element to look for when reading a story or novel. Characters are most often people but can be animals or even fictionalized beings like those seen in cartoons or movies. The main character plays the biggest role and is often the first character to be introduced. Most often the story is seen through the eyes of the main character. Secondary characters play a smaller supporting role and are introduced throughout the story.
Setting
The setting is the second element you should look for when reading a story or novel. The setting is the location where the story takes place. A story may take place in a home, countryside, town, school, or wherever the author chooses to have the action occur. The setting is usually revealed very early in a story.
Time
The time when the story takes place is the third element you should look for when reading a story or novel. A story may take place very recently or many years ago. Usually the time when the story takes place is introduced very early in the story.
Problem
The problem is the fourth element you should look for in a story or novel. The problem most often grows out of a conflict between the main character and another character in the story. But the problem can also involve a circumstance such as a hurricane, a war, or one of the many obstacles that produce a conflict in life.
Events
Events are the fifth element you should look for when reading a story or novel. An event is an attempt at solving the problem in the story. In a story there are usually a number of attempts to solve the problem and these events make up most of the story.
Solution
A solution is the sixth and final element in a story or novel. The solution is how the problem is resolved or brought to an end. Most often the solution is revealed near the end of the story. Sometimes the solution is not revealed until the very last page or even the final paragraph of the story.
Recognizing these story elements will help you better understand and enjoy a story, remember the story facts, and appreciate different writing styles used by authors.
Study Groups
A study group can be helpful when you are trying to learn information and concepts and preparing for class discussions and tests. Read to learn about the benefits of a study group. Then read on to learn about how to start a study group and the characteristics of a successful study group. Finally, be sure to read about the possible pitfalls of a study group.
Benefits of a Study Group
A study group can be beneficial in many ways. Here are the most important benefits:
A support group can “pick you up” when you find that your motivation to study is slipping. The other group members can be a source of encouragement.
You may be reluctant to ask a question in class. You will find it easier to do so in a small study group.
You may become more committed to study because the group members are depending on your presentation and participation. You will not want to let them down.
Group members will listen and discuss information and concepts during the study sessions. These activities add a strong auditory dimension to your learning experience.
One or more group members are likely to understand something you do not. They may bring up ideas you never considered.
You can learn valuable new study habits from the other group members.
You can compare your class notes with those of the other group members to clarify your notes and fill in any gaps.
Teaching/explaining information and concepts to the other group members will help you reinforce your mastery of the information and concepts.
Let’s face it – studying can sometimes be boring. Interacting with the other group members can make studying enjoyable.
Getting a Study Group Started
Study groups don’t just happen. Here is what you should do to get a study group started:
Get to know your classmates by talking with them before class, during breaks, and after class. When selecting a classmate to join your study group, you should be able to answer YES for each of the following questions:
Is this classmate motivated to do well?
Does this classmate understand the subject matter?
Is this classmate dependable?
Would this classmate be tolerant of the ideas of others?
Would you like to work with this classmate?
Invite enough of these classmates to work with you in a study group until you have formed a group of three to five. A larger group may allow some members to avoid responsibility, may lead to cliques, and may make group management more of an issue than learning.
Decide how often and for how long you will meet. Meeting two or three times a week is probably best. If you plan a long study session, make sure you include time for breaks. A study session of about 60 to 90 minutes is usually best.
Decide where you will meet. Select a meeting place that is available and is free from distractions. An empty classroom or a group study room in the library are possibilities.
Decide on the goals of the study group. Goals can include comparing and updating notes, discussing readings, and preparing for exams.
Decide who the leader will be for the first study session. Also decide whether it will be the same person each session or whether there will be a rotating leader. The leader of a study session should be responsible for meeting the goals of that study session.
Clearly decide the agenda for the first study session and the responsibilities of each group member for that session.
Develop a list of all group members that includes their names, telephone numbers, and email addresses. Make sure each group member has this list and update the list as needed.
Characteristics of a Successful Study Group
Once started, a study group should possess the following characteristics to be successful:
Each group member contributes to discussions.
Group members actively listen to each other without interrupting. Only one group member speaks at a time.
The other group members work collaboratively to resolve any concern raised by a group member.
Group members are prompt and come prepared to work.
The group stays on task with respect to its agenda.
Group members show respect for each other.
Group members feel free to criticize each other but keep their criticisms constructive. This can encourage group members to reveal their weaknesses so that they can strengthen them.
Group members feel free to ask questions of each other.
At the end of each study session, an agenda including specific group member responsibilities is prepared for the next session.
Above all, the positive attitude that “we can do this together” is maintained.
Possible Pitfalls of a Study Group
A study group can be a very positive learning experience. However, there are pitfalls to be avoided. Here are some cautions:
Do not let the study group get distracted from its agenda and goals.
Do not let the study group become a social group. You can always socialize at other times.
Do not allow group members to attend unprepared. To stay in the group, members should be required to do their fair share.
Do not the let the session become a negative forum for complaining about teachers and courses.
Do not allow one or two group members to dominate the group. It is important that all members have an equal opportunity to participate.
The information you just read will help you decide when a study group is appropriate for you and will help ensure its success.
See our other study skills resources at www.how-to-study.com
and don't forget to
check out the study skills programs at www.mangrum-strichart.com.
Feel free to share the information we provide at this site. Please give credit to www.how-to-study.com when you do so.
You must obtain our written permission for any use of the information for commercial purposes. Copyright © How-To-Study.com.
Benefits of a Study Group
A study group can be beneficial in many ways. Here are the most important benefits:
A support group can “pick you up” when you find that your motivation to study is slipping. The other group members can be a source of encouragement.
You may be reluctant to ask a question in class. You will find it easier to do so in a small study group.
You may become more committed to study because the group members are depending on your presentation and participation. You will not want to let them down.
Group members will listen and discuss information and concepts during the study sessions. These activities add a strong auditory dimension to your learning experience.
One or more group members are likely to understand something you do not. They may bring up ideas you never considered.
You can learn valuable new study habits from the other group members.
You can compare your class notes with those of the other group members to clarify your notes and fill in any gaps.
Teaching/explaining information and concepts to the other group members will help you reinforce your mastery of the information and concepts.
Let’s face it – studying can sometimes be boring. Interacting with the other group members can make studying enjoyable.
Getting a Study Group Started
Study groups don’t just happen. Here is what you should do to get a study group started:
Get to know your classmates by talking with them before class, during breaks, and after class. When selecting a classmate to join your study group, you should be able to answer YES for each of the following questions:
Is this classmate motivated to do well?
Does this classmate understand the subject matter?
Is this classmate dependable?
Would this classmate be tolerant of the ideas of others?
Would you like to work with this classmate?
Invite enough of these classmates to work with you in a study group until you have formed a group of three to five. A larger group may allow some members to avoid responsibility, may lead to cliques, and may make group management more of an issue than learning.
Decide how often and for how long you will meet. Meeting two or three times a week is probably best. If you plan a long study session, make sure you include time for breaks. A study session of about 60 to 90 minutes is usually best.
Decide where you will meet. Select a meeting place that is available and is free from distractions. An empty classroom or a group study room in the library are possibilities.
Decide on the goals of the study group. Goals can include comparing and updating notes, discussing readings, and preparing for exams.
Decide who the leader will be for the first study session. Also decide whether it will be the same person each session or whether there will be a rotating leader. The leader of a study session should be responsible for meeting the goals of that study session.
Clearly decide the agenda for the first study session and the responsibilities of each group member for that session.
Develop a list of all group members that includes their names, telephone numbers, and email addresses. Make sure each group member has this list and update the list as needed.
Characteristics of a Successful Study Group
Once started, a study group should possess the following characteristics to be successful:
Each group member contributes to discussions.
Group members actively listen to each other without interrupting. Only one group member speaks at a time.
The other group members work collaboratively to resolve any concern raised by a group member.
Group members are prompt and come prepared to work.
The group stays on task with respect to its agenda.
Group members show respect for each other.
Group members feel free to criticize each other but keep their criticisms constructive. This can encourage group members to reveal their weaknesses so that they can strengthen them.
Group members feel free to ask questions of each other.
At the end of each study session, an agenda including specific group member responsibilities is prepared for the next session.
Above all, the positive attitude that “we can do this together” is maintained.
Possible Pitfalls of a Study Group
A study group can be a very positive learning experience. However, there are pitfalls to be avoided. Here are some cautions:
Do not let the study group get distracted from its agenda and goals.
Do not let the study group become a social group. You can always socialize at other times.
Do not allow group members to attend unprepared. To stay in the group, members should be required to do their fair share.
Do not the let the session become a negative forum for complaining about teachers and courses.
Do not allow one or two group members to dominate the group. It is important that all members have an equal opportunity to participate.
The information you just read will help you decide when a study group is appropriate for you and will help ensure its success.
See our other study skills resources at www.how-to-study.com
and don't forget to
check out the study skills programs at www.mangrum-strichart.com.
Feel free to share the information we provide at this site. Please give credit to www.how-to-study.com when you do so.
You must obtain our written permission for any use of the information for commercial purposes. Copyright © How-To-Study.com.
Succeeding in College
Just as in elementary school through high school, your success in college requires high motivation and effort, strong study skills, effective time management, and good test-taking strategies. These areas are covered in other screens here at www.how-to-study.com. But college success requires much more. Once you move from high school to college, you will generally find that students are more motivated and competent than in high school; teachers are more demanding; the work is more difficult; and students are expected to be independent. Further, if you are living away from home for the first time, you will have many new experiences.Here are some ideas that will help you succeed in college:
Have Clear Goals
College success requires commitment and a lot of hard work. You must be very certain about the importance of a college education.
Be clear about why you are going to college.
Establish specific goals you wish to accomplish.
Know what it will take to reach these goals.
Be certain your goals are consistent with your interests and abilities.
Be flexible – change your goals if needed based on your experience as you progress through college.
Get Financial Aid if Needed
College is expensive. Even if you attend a public college or university and live at home, you still must pay for tuition, fees, and books. There are many sources of financial aid that can help you meet the high costs of college. Become aware of and pursue these sources.
Consider all possible sources of financial aid in addition to your college’s financial aid office.
Meet all deadlines for submitting applications and documentation.
Respond quickly and completely to all requests for additional information.
Be persistent in following up your application.
If you do receive financial aid, meet all requirements to keep and continue your aid.
Manage Your Money
There are many ways to spend money in the college setting for other than education purposes. Take steps to ensure that you do not waste the money set aside for your college education.
Set a budget and keep to it.
Be careful about your use of credit cards. Don’t overspend. Pay balances promptly to avoid high interest costs.
Open a checking account and carefully monitor your balance.
Keep your cell phone under control. Those minutes and fees can really add up.
Stay Physically and Emotionally Healthy
You will need to be at your best to succeed in college. This means taking care of your body and maintaining a good frame of mind.
Get enough sleep.
Don’t rely on coffee and drinks that contain high doses of caffeine to provide you with energy. Foods such as pasta, peanut butter, non-sugar cereals, and fresh fruit are healthy alternatives to provide the energy you need.
Avoid junk foods. Fast food is convenient but usually not good for you.
Use the services of the student health office. These services typically include emergency treatment, low cost examinations, and low cost or free medication.
Use the services of the counseling office. The professionals there can help you overcome feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety.
Choose a Professor Carefully
In college you get to select your schedule of classes. Most classes offer more than one section so that you can choose not just the day and time, but the professor who is teaching that section. Often you will find student ratings of professors on the Internet. You can get even more feedback by talking to other students. Try to choose a professor who demonstrates the following characteristics.
Maintains adequate office hours.
Provides constructive feedback.
Adapts to different styles of learning.
Grades fairly.
Is highly competent in the subject being taught.
Establishes clear and reasonable requirements.
Provides a positive learning environment.
Work With Your Advisor
As a student you will be assigned a faculty advisor to help you with both academic and career issues. It is up to you to get the most out of this guidance.
Know your advisor’s office location, schedule of office hours, and contact information.
Schedule an appointment with your advisor at any time you have problems that affect your academic performance.
Consider your advisor’s ideas when selecting your major or at any time you are considering changing your major or career goals.
Have specific questions in mind whenever meeting with your advisor.
Make Good Use of the Library
You are going to spend a lot of your time in college at the library. Take full advantage of this major resource.
Get to know the resources of the library as soon as you get to college.
Learn to use its computer resources and card catalogs.
Make good use of its equipment such as copy machines, microfiche readers, production facilities, etc.
Check out its quiet study areas. Sign up for their use if required.
Get Involved in Campus Life
There is a lot more to college than just classes. A college campus is an exciting, dynamic environment that can provide you with many opportunities for enhancing your college experience.
Join a student organization that is consistent with your interests. You will find many organizations from which to choose.
Join a club in your major. This cannot only help you in your studies but can provide contacts that may be very useful in your future career.
Join an intramural team. This is a great way to keep yourself in good physical shape and make new friends.
Attend social events. Your college experience should not be all work and no play.
Yes – success in college takes effort. But this effort will provide benefits to you throughout your life. The ideas presented above can help you to make your college experience a successful one.
See our other study skills resources at www.how-to-study.com
and don't forget to
check out the study skills programs at www.mangrum-strichart.com.
Feel free to share the information we provide at this site. Please give credit to www.how-to-study.com when you do so.
You must obtain our written permission for any use of the information for commercial purposes. Copyright © How-To-Study.com.
Have Clear Goals
College success requires commitment and a lot of hard work. You must be very certain about the importance of a college education.
Be clear about why you are going to college.
Establish specific goals you wish to accomplish.
Know what it will take to reach these goals.
Be certain your goals are consistent with your interests and abilities.
Be flexible – change your goals if needed based on your experience as you progress through college.
Get Financial Aid if Needed
College is expensive. Even if you attend a public college or university and live at home, you still must pay for tuition, fees, and books. There are many sources of financial aid that can help you meet the high costs of college. Become aware of and pursue these sources.
Consider all possible sources of financial aid in addition to your college’s financial aid office.
Meet all deadlines for submitting applications and documentation.
Respond quickly and completely to all requests for additional information.
Be persistent in following up your application.
If you do receive financial aid, meet all requirements to keep and continue your aid.
Manage Your Money
There are many ways to spend money in the college setting for other than education purposes. Take steps to ensure that you do not waste the money set aside for your college education.
Set a budget and keep to it.
Be careful about your use of credit cards. Don’t overspend. Pay balances promptly to avoid high interest costs.
Open a checking account and carefully monitor your balance.
Keep your cell phone under control. Those minutes and fees can really add up.
Stay Physically and Emotionally Healthy
You will need to be at your best to succeed in college. This means taking care of your body and maintaining a good frame of mind.
Get enough sleep.
Don’t rely on coffee and drinks that contain high doses of caffeine to provide you with energy. Foods such as pasta, peanut butter, non-sugar cereals, and fresh fruit are healthy alternatives to provide the energy you need.
Avoid junk foods. Fast food is convenient but usually not good for you.
Use the services of the student health office. These services typically include emergency treatment, low cost examinations, and low cost or free medication.
Use the services of the counseling office. The professionals there can help you overcome feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety.
Choose a Professor Carefully
In college you get to select your schedule of classes. Most classes offer more than one section so that you can choose not just the day and time, but the professor who is teaching that section. Often you will find student ratings of professors on the Internet. You can get even more feedback by talking to other students. Try to choose a professor who demonstrates the following characteristics.
Maintains adequate office hours.
Provides constructive feedback.
Adapts to different styles of learning.
Grades fairly.
Is highly competent in the subject being taught.
Establishes clear and reasonable requirements.
Provides a positive learning environment.
Work With Your Advisor
As a student you will be assigned a faculty advisor to help you with both academic and career issues. It is up to you to get the most out of this guidance.
Know your advisor’s office location, schedule of office hours, and contact information.
Schedule an appointment with your advisor at any time you have problems that affect your academic performance.
Consider your advisor’s ideas when selecting your major or at any time you are considering changing your major or career goals.
Have specific questions in mind whenever meeting with your advisor.
Make Good Use of the Library
You are going to spend a lot of your time in college at the library. Take full advantage of this major resource.
Get to know the resources of the library as soon as you get to college.
Learn to use its computer resources and card catalogs.
Make good use of its equipment such as copy machines, microfiche readers, production facilities, etc.
Check out its quiet study areas. Sign up for their use if required.
Get Involved in Campus Life
There is a lot more to college than just classes. A college campus is an exciting, dynamic environment that can provide you with many opportunities for enhancing your college experience.
Join a student organization that is consistent with your interests. You will find many organizations from which to choose.
Join a club in your major. This cannot only help you in your studies but can provide contacts that may be very useful in your future career.
Join an intramural team. This is a great way to keep yourself in good physical shape and make new friends.
Attend social events. Your college experience should not be all work and no play.
Yes – success in college takes effort. But this effort will provide benefits to you throughout your life. The ideas presented above can help you to make your college experience a successful one.
See our other study skills resources at www.how-to-study.com
and don't forget to
check out the study skills programs at www.mangrum-strichart.com.
Feel free to share the information we provide at this site. Please give credit to www.how-to-study.com when you do so.
You must obtain our written permission for any use of the information for commercial purposes. Copyright © How-To-Study.com.
Procrastination
What is Procrastination?
Procrastination is putting off or avoiding doing something that must be done. It is natural to procrastinate occasionally. However, excessive procrastination can result in guilt feelings about not doing a task when it should be done. It can also cause anxiety since the task still needs to be done. Further, excessive procrastination can cause poor performance if the task is completed without sufficient time to do it well. In short, excessive procrastination can interfere with school and personal success.
Why Do Students Procrastinate?
There are many reasons why students procrastinate. Here are the most common reasons:
Perfectionism. A student’s standard of performance may be so high for a task that it does not seem possible to meet that standard.
Fear of Failure. A student may lack confidence and fear that he/she will be unable to accomplish a task successfully.
Confusion. A student may be unsure about how to start a task or how it should be completed.
Task Difficulty. A student may lack the skills and abilities needed to accomplish a task.
Poor Motivation. A student may have little or no interest in completing a task because he/she finds the task boring or lacking in relevance.
Difficulty Concentrating. A student may have too many things around that distract him/her from doing a task.
Task Unpleasantness. A student may dislike doing what a task requires.
Lack of Priorities. A student may have little or no sense about which tasks are most important to do.
How Do I Know if I Procrastinate Excessively?
You procrastinate excessively if you agree with five or more of the following statements:
I often put off starting a task I find difficult
I often give up on a task as soon as I start to find it difficult.
I often wonder why I should be doing a task.
I often have difficulty getting started on a task.
I often try to do so many tasks at once that I cannot do any of them.
I often put off a task in which I have little or no interest.
I often try to come up with reasons to do something other than a task I have to do.
I often ignore a task when I am not certain about how to start it or complete it.
I often start a task but stop before completing it.
I often find myself thinking that if I ignore a task, it will go away.
I often cannot decide which of a number of tasks I should complete first.
I often find my mind wandering to things other that the task on which I am trying to work.
What Can I Do About Excessive Procrastination?
Here are some things you can do to control excessive procrastination.
Motivate yourself to work on a task with thoughts such as “There is no time like the present,” or “Nobody’s perfect.”
Prioritize the tasks you have to do.
Commit yourself to completing a task once started.
Reward yourself whenever you complete a task.
Work on tasks at the times you work best.
Break large tasks into small manageable parts.
Work on tasks as part of a study group.
Get help from teachers and other students when you find a task difficult.
Make a schedule of the tasks you have to do and stick to it.
Eliminate distractions that interfere with working on tasks.
Set reasonable standards that you can meet for a task.
Take breaks when working on a task so that you do not wear down.
Work on difficult and/or unpleasant tasks first.
Work on a task you find easier after you complete a difficult task.
Find a good place to work on tasks.
Above all, think positively and get going. Once you are into a task, you will probably find that it is more interesting than you thought it would be and not as difficult as you feared. You will feel increasingly relieved as you work toward its accomplishment and will come to look forward to the feeling of satisfaction you will experience when you have completed the task.
See our other study skills resources at www.how-to-study.com
and don't forget to
check out the study skills programs at www.mangrum-strichart.com.
Feel free to share the information we provide at this site. Please give credit to www.how-to-study.com when you do so.
You must obtain our written permission for any use of the information for commercial purposes. Copyright © How-To-Study.com.
Procrastination is putting off or avoiding doing something that must be done. It is natural to procrastinate occasionally. However, excessive procrastination can result in guilt feelings about not doing a task when it should be done. It can also cause anxiety since the task still needs to be done. Further, excessive procrastination can cause poor performance if the task is completed without sufficient time to do it well. In short, excessive procrastination can interfere with school and personal success.
Why Do Students Procrastinate?
There are many reasons why students procrastinate. Here are the most common reasons:
Perfectionism. A student’s standard of performance may be so high for a task that it does not seem possible to meet that standard.
Fear of Failure. A student may lack confidence and fear that he/she will be unable to accomplish a task successfully.
Confusion. A student may be unsure about how to start a task or how it should be completed.
Task Difficulty. A student may lack the skills and abilities needed to accomplish a task.
Poor Motivation. A student may have little or no interest in completing a task because he/she finds the task boring or lacking in relevance.
Difficulty Concentrating. A student may have too many things around that distract him/her from doing a task.
Task Unpleasantness. A student may dislike doing what a task requires.
Lack of Priorities. A student may have little or no sense about which tasks are most important to do.
How Do I Know if I Procrastinate Excessively?
You procrastinate excessively if you agree with five or more of the following statements:
I often put off starting a task I find difficult
I often give up on a task as soon as I start to find it difficult.
I often wonder why I should be doing a task.
I often have difficulty getting started on a task.
I often try to do so many tasks at once that I cannot do any of them.
I often put off a task in which I have little or no interest.
I often try to come up with reasons to do something other than a task I have to do.
I often ignore a task when I am not certain about how to start it or complete it.
I often start a task but stop before completing it.
I often find myself thinking that if I ignore a task, it will go away.
I often cannot decide which of a number of tasks I should complete first.
I often find my mind wandering to things other that the task on which I am trying to work.
What Can I Do About Excessive Procrastination?
Here are some things you can do to control excessive procrastination.
Motivate yourself to work on a task with thoughts such as “There is no time like the present,” or “Nobody’s perfect.”
Prioritize the tasks you have to do.
Commit yourself to completing a task once started.
Reward yourself whenever you complete a task.
Work on tasks at the times you work best.
Break large tasks into small manageable parts.
Work on tasks as part of a study group.
Get help from teachers and other students when you find a task difficult.
Make a schedule of the tasks you have to do and stick to it.
Eliminate distractions that interfere with working on tasks.
Set reasonable standards that you can meet for a task.
Take breaks when working on a task so that you do not wear down.
Work on difficult and/or unpleasant tasks first.
Work on a task you find easier after you complete a difficult task.
Find a good place to work on tasks.
Above all, think positively and get going. Once you are into a task, you will probably find that it is more interesting than you thought it would be and not as difficult as you feared. You will feel increasingly relieved as you work toward its accomplishment and will come to look forward to the feeling of satisfaction you will experience when you have completed the task.
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Writing Techniques
Writing is an important form of communication. Good writers use different writing techniques to fit their purpose for writing. To be a good writer, you must master each of the following writing techniques.
1. Description
Through description, a writer helps the reader use the senses of feeling, seeing, hearing, smelling, and tasting to experience what the writer experiences. Description helps the reader more clearly understand the people, places, and things about which the writer is writing. It is the most common form of writing. You will find descriptive writing in newspapers, magazines, books, and most other forms of written communication.
2. Exposition
Through exposition, a writer informs, explains, and clarifies his/her ideas and thoughts. Exposition goes beyond description to help the reader understand with greater clarity and depth the ideas and thoughts of the writer. Expository writing, like descriptive writing, is commonly found in newspapers, magazines, books, and most other forms of written communication.
3. Narration
Through narration, a writer tells a story. A story has characters, a setting, a time, a problem, attempts at solving the problem, and a solution to the problem. Bedtime stories are examples of short stories while novels are examples of long stories. The scripts written for movies and plays are further examples of narrative writing.
4. Persuasion
Through persuasion, a writer tries to change a reader's point of view on a topic, subject, or position. The writer presents facts and opinions to get the reader to understand why something is right, wrong, or in between. Editorials, letters to the editor in newspapers and magazines, and the text for a political speech are examples of persuasive writing.
5. Comparison and Contrast
Through comparison and contrast, a writer points out the similarities and differences about a topic. Comparison is used to show what is alike or in common. Contrast is used to show what is not alike or not in common. Describing living conditions in 1900 and living conditions today would allow for much comparison and contrast.
By using the writing technique that fits your purpose, you will be able to communicate your ideas effectively.
1. Description
Through description, a writer helps the reader use the senses of feeling, seeing, hearing, smelling, and tasting to experience what the writer experiences. Description helps the reader more clearly understand the people, places, and things about which the writer is writing. It is the most common form of writing. You will find descriptive writing in newspapers, magazines, books, and most other forms of written communication.
2. Exposition
Through exposition, a writer informs, explains, and clarifies his/her ideas and thoughts. Exposition goes beyond description to help the reader understand with greater clarity and depth the ideas and thoughts of the writer. Expository writing, like descriptive writing, is commonly found in newspapers, magazines, books, and most other forms of written communication.
3. Narration
Through narration, a writer tells a story. A story has characters, a setting, a time, a problem, attempts at solving the problem, and a solution to the problem. Bedtime stories are examples of short stories while novels are examples of long stories. The scripts written for movies and plays are further examples of narrative writing.
4. Persuasion
Through persuasion, a writer tries to change a reader's point of view on a topic, subject, or position. The writer presents facts and opinions to get the reader to understand why something is right, wrong, or in between. Editorials, letters to the editor in newspapers and magazines, and the text for a political speech are examples of persuasive writing.
5. Comparison and Contrast
Through comparison and contrast, a writer points out the similarities and differences about a topic. Comparison is used to show what is alike or in common. Contrast is used to show what is not alike or not in common. Describing living conditions in 1900 and living conditions today would allow for much comparison and contrast.
By using the writing technique that fits your purpose, you will be able to communicate your ideas effectively.
Setting Goals
A goal is something you want to achieve. A short-term goal is something you want to achieve soon. Examples of short-term goals are finishing your homework and doing well on tomorrow’s test. A long-term goal is something you want to achieve at some later date. Examples of long-term goals are writing a paper and passing a class.
To set appropriate goals, you must know what is important for you to accomplish. Then you must set specific and clearly stated goals. If you do not have clearly stated goals, your effort will lack direction and focus. Write your goals to have a record of them.
The Three Ws of Goals
Each goal you set should state WHAT you will do and WHEN you will accomplish it. Implied in each goal you set is your WILL (determination) to do it. For example, a goal for a research paper might be stated as follows: I will (your determination) finish gathering information for my research paper (what you will do) by November 20 (when you will accomplish it).
Characteristics of Appropriate Goals
Your goals should be:
1. within your skills and abilities. Knowing your strengths and weaknesses will help you set goals you can accomplish.
2. realistic. Setting a goal to learn the spelling of three new words a day is realistic. Trying to learn the spelling of fifty new words a day is not realistic.
3. flexible. Sometimes things will not go the way you anticipate and you may need to change your goal. Stay flexible so when you realize a change is necessary you will be ready to make the change.
4. measurable. It is important to be able to measure your progress toward a goal. It is especially important to recognize when you have accomplished your goal and need to go no further. Failure to measure your progress toward a goal and recognize its accomplishment will result in effort that is misdirected and wasted.
5. within your control. Other than when working as part of a group, accomplishment of your goal should not depend on other students. You can control what you do, but you have little or no control over what others do. You may do what you have to do, but if others don’t, you will not accomplish your goal.
Many times your parents, teachers, and counselors will set goals for you. Be accepting when they do. These are people who know what is important for you and are very concerned with your success. They can also help you accomplish the goals they set.
To set appropriate goals, you must know what is important for you to accomplish. Then you must set specific and clearly stated goals. If you do not have clearly stated goals, your effort will lack direction and focus. Write your goals to have a record of them.
The Three Ws of Goals
Each goal you set should state WHAT you will do and WHEN you will accomplish it. Implied in each goal you set is your WILL (determination) to do it. For example, a goal for a research paper might be stated as follows: I will (your determination) finish gathering information for my research paper (what you will do) by November 20 (when you will accomplish it).
Characteristics of Appropriate Goals
Your goals should be:
1. within your skills and abilities. Knowing your strengths and weaknesses will help you set goals you can accomplish.
2. realistic. Setting a goal to learn the spelling of three new words a day is realistic. Trying to learn the spelling of fifty new words a day is not realistic.
3. flexible. Sometimes things will not go the way you anticipate and you may need to change your goal. Stay flexible so when you realize a change is necessary you will be ready to make the change.
4. measurable. It is important to be able to measure your progress toward a goal. It is especially important to recognize when you have accomplished your goal and need to go no further. Failure to measure your progress toward a goal and recognize its accomplishment will result in effort that is misdirected and wasted.
5. within your control. Other than when working as part of a group, accomplishment of your goal should not depend on other students. You can control what you do, but you have little or no control over what others do. You may do what you have to do, but if others don’t, you will not accomplish your goal.
Many times your parents, teachers, and counselors will set goals for you. Be accepting when they do. These are people who know what is important for you and are very concerned with your success. They can also help you accomplish the goals they set.
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