8 Study Tips to Take Your Learning to the Next Level - CET

If you find yourself struggling when you sit down, crack open the books, and try to study for your classes, you’re not alone. Studying sounds simple enough but if you’re not careful, it can end up becoming a task you dread and don’t even get much out of. 

Here are eight tips to help you study better and succeed in your classes. Your grades will thank you!

1) Treat it like a job 

Always remember, studying is your work and your end goal is a job. Consciously choose to show up. Have a success mindset. Keep a schedule like your future depends on it.

2) Hold yourself accountable

Set goals at the beginning and check in with yourself weekly. If you’re having trouble holding yourself responsible, pair up with a fellow classmate, or enlist the help of a spouse or friend to check in as an accountability partner. By being organized, proactive, and self-aware, you can get the most from your training even when life outside of school becomes chaotic.

3) Manage your time wisely 

Set a schedule and stick with it. People generally do better in a structured environment. So why not make it even easier for yourself? Plan ahead, let your family and friends know that you are training, and you can use their support to stay focused on what you want to accomplish.

4) Find a quiet space

Create a space of peace. You need to designate an area that is free of distraction. When diversions are present, it may reflect in poor quality of work; hindering your education.

5) Eliminate distractions

It’s important to have a designated study area when working online. Turn off mobile phones and TV. Some background music can help you to relax, but make sure it’s not so loud it becomes a distraction.

6) Actively participate

Participate in both the classroom and in any online activities to help you better understand course materials and engage with fellow classmates. This might involve commenting on a classmate’s paper on a discussion board or posting a question about a project you’re working on. Read what other students and your instructor is saying, and if you have a question, ask for clarification.

Make sure you are checking in as often as you can, too. The flexibility of online learning means that if you have 30 minutes before dinner plans, you could squeeze in a discussion response around your schedule. Set a goal to check in on the class discussion threads every day.

And if you do feel yourself falling behind, speak up. Don’t wait until an assignment is almost due to ask questions or report issues. Email your professor and be proactive in asking for help.

7) Leverage your network

Build relationships with other students by introducing yourself and engaging in the classroom and online. Your peers can be a valuable resource during training. With CET’s open enrollment and competency-based learning, your peers can help you with what they’ve already learned, and then you can help someone else!

8) Practice Makes Perfect

Hands-on programs are an excellent option to help you master the skills you need to fulfill your goals. Though they come with their own unique challenges, following the advice above can help you be successful even in the most chaotic of times.

If you follow these tips and really put the effort in, you’ll be on the path to success in no time. From there, you can go wherever you want to go. Sounds good, right? 

Not currently a CET student? CET provides the education you need to land the job you want. Learn more about opportunities for success in and out of the classroom, contact us today.