Are you the first person in your family to go to college? If so, you are in good company. Many, many “first-generation” students attend colleges and universities today. Make sure that you understand the rules and regulations and unique higher education terminology at your institution. If you or your family members feel lost or confused, talk to your college success instructor and ask about available services for first-generation students. Also remember that some of our nation’s most successful individuals were the first in their families to attend college and graduate.
The final step in active textbook reading is reviewing. Many students expect to read through their text material once and be able to remember the ideas four, six, or even twelve weeks later at test time. More realistically, you will need to include regular reviews in your study process. Here is where your notes, study questions, annotations, flash cards, visual maps, or outlines will be most useful. Your study goal should be to review the material from each chapter every week.
Consider ways to use your many senses to review. Recite aloud. Tick off each item in a list on each of your fingertips. Post diagrams, maps, or outlines around your living space so that you will see them often and will likely be able to visualize them while taking the test.