Study Skills Overview

Effective study skills are a necessary component of a successful middle school experience, especially here at TCMS.  Study skills can be divided into 5 major sets of skills:

1.      Organizational skills –

·         Use planner – have it with you at all times at school and at home, write down all assignments.

·         Have the correct supplies you need, including notebooks, binders, folders, pencils, etc. at school and home.

·         Color code notebooks and folders by subject

·         Keep backpack organized by subject, free of crumpled papers, etc.

·         Use all purpose (or homework) folder if you have trouble locating necessary papers.

2.      Time Management skills –

·         Figure out realistic times for how long things take you to do, including homework, chores, etc.

·         Make up a schedule that works for you and your family, including your free time activities.

·         Keep a monthly calendar so you can keep track of long-range plans and assignments.

3.      Active listening skills-

·         Pay attention and look at the speaker.

·         Avoid distractions.

·         Don’t interrupt.

·         Ask questions for clarification.

4.      Note-taking skills

·         Copy information written on board.

·         Listen for teacher cues as to what is important.

·         Put a question mark in the margin if you don’t understand something, so you can ask later.

·         Use abbreviations to help you write faster.

·         Review your notes as soon as possible to help retain information for upcoming quizzes and tests.

5.      Test-Taking Skills

·         Study in a comfortable place where you won’t be distracted.

·         Schedule review time each day to study – don’t start the night before the test.

·         Actively study – write up a study sheet using notes, homework, worksheets; write down potential test questions.

·         Ask teacher for help if necessary.

BE RESPONSIBLE!