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  Why Study Skills Are Important


As a university student, you have made the best decision you could possibly make in your future: You have decided to invest in yourself through education.

Your goal in university is to develop the talents, skills, and abilities you will need to get a good job, to become a critical thinker, and to learn about the world of ideas. You can maximize your time in school by developing effective study habits. These include:

  • Organization and time management. As basic as these skills sound, they can mean the difference between success and failure. You have unlimited time, so it is important to learn to set priorities that reflect your personal goals.
  • Writing. Learn to respect the steps in the writing process - planning and research, organizing, drafting, revision, and editing - to put your best self forward on paper. The writing skills you learn today will be invaluable in your career and community activities.
  • Note taking and listening. By learning to take effective notes on what you hear and read, you will use your time wisely. And by understanding that listening requires concentration, commitment, and an open mind, you will hear what others are really saying.
  • Studying. Learn the techniques for effective studying, then use them before every test. You'll be surprised at what a difference they'll make. Also learn to rely on others. Consider forming a study group, and turn to your instructors for help with difficult material.
  • Test taking. Master test-taking techniques so you can show others what you really know.

The study skills you develop in university will be useful throughout your life. At work, you may be asked to research a new business idea or to write a marketing proposal. And as citizens, we all have the responsibility to critically evaluate ideas to make the best choices for our community and country. Start practising these skills now.

 

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May 11, 2006