Good study habits are key to getting good grades.

You should always be prepared for class. This means studying – not simply reading – the assigned texts for that class period. You may see many students simply glancing through the texts a few minutes before class. This is a recipe for mediocrity.

First of all, reading alone will not help you to remember key terms, definitions or arguments in the literature. To truly gain a mastery over the material you must study. Sit in front of a computer while you are reading and summarize all of the author's main points. Use the same headings that the text uses as a guide to organization. Because many of the courses you will be taking during your first year will be introductory, there will many terms, theories and scholars you are not familiar with. All of these should be included in your "outline".

In addition, you should include any questions or comments you have about the texts in your notes. You should engage in this outline process for each and every class assignment. Although it may seem tedious and time-consuming, these outlines will help you not only over the short term by making participation in class easier, but they will also make studying for exams and writing research papers more manageable.

Always arrive at least five minutes before class and sit in the front of the classroom. Arriving late to class and sitting in the back might lead the professor to believe that you are uninterested and/or unprepared.

On your desk you should have: (1) the assigned texts for that class period, (2) your notebook, (3) a printout of your outline for that class, (4) outlines from previous classes that may be relevant for class discussion, and (5) a pen or other writing implement.

While in class, take copious notes; this shows the professor you are interested and will obviously assist in exam preparation. If you believe it will help you – and if permitted by the professor – record the lectures. Use your outline to ask questions or make comments. Again, this shows the professor you are interested. Also, class participation can play a major role in grading.

After your first class, introduce yourself to the professor. Make it a point to visit your professors' offices at least once per semester. By being prepared for class and performing well in class, you are more likely to get an "A," more likely to be recognized by the professor and more likely to be able to rely on that professor’s help when you are applying to graduate school.