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Get organized at the beginning of the semester. Keep your syllabus or procedure sheet, handouts, and notes for each class together in a folder or binder. Keep track of your materials. Try to do your math homework as soon after class as possible, and reserve some time later in the day to attack the problems that you get stuck on the first time around.

Devote enough time to studying. For each hour you spend in a class, you should spend 2-3 hours studying outside of class. Some classes may be easier or harder for you. Start a study group. DIfferent people have different study habits that may allow for further discovery in a subject. Get together once or twice a week with other members of the same class to clarify information, ask questions, and share notes and observations.

If you feel that a class is way over your head, you may need to start with a lower-level class or ask for help before it's too late. Talk to your instructor as soon as you feel you are having problems. Usually professors help if they see a student is interested enough to stand up for themselves.Perhaps tutoring can help you with some of the more difficult concepts in a class.

Take good notes in class using abbreviations to save time. You can use a tape recorder, if necessary, to help you fill in information you missed (ask your instructor's permission). At the end of each day, review and organize your notes. These actions help you understand and remember the information.

Plan to attend all of your classes. If you have to miss a class, it is your responsibility to get notes from classmates or to makeup tests and work you misssed. Inform your instructor ahead of time if you must miss class. Check the syllabus for special instructions regarding makeup work.