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10 Study Skills for Non-Traditional Students

Quick Reference for When You Need Help Studying Right Now

By Deb Peterson, About.com

Ten study skills for the adult returning to school. Make it easier to balance school, life, work by incorporating these 10 study skills.

1. Create a Study Space

Student Studying by Marili Forastieri / Getty ImagesMarili Forastieri / Getty Images
Create a study space that helps you make the most of the time you have to study. Do you have enough light? A power source for your computer? Peace and quiet?

2. Ask Questions

Effective Course DesignStockbyte / Getty Images
Asking and answering questions is one of the most effective ways of learning, whether you're studying alone or with a group, and nothing beats full participation in class for quick learning. Ask questions during class, without making a pest of yourself, of course, and answer your share of the questions posed by others.

3. Take it Step by Step

Step by Step by Digital Vision / Getty ImagesDigital Vision / Getty Images
When studying gets frustrating, take a break and be inspired by a toddler learning to walk. When you sit back down, break your task into baby steps. Step by step it's easier.

4. Take Notes on a Laptop

Student with Laptop by Nick White / Digital Vision / Getty ImagesNick White / Digital Vision / Getty Images
Is it a good idea, or bad? There are pros and cons to taking your laptop into the classroom.

5. Listen Actively

When was your last meaningful conversation?Andreas Pollock / Getty Images
It's easy to take listening for granted, but many of us really don't have very good listening skills. Do you?

6. Know Your Options for Researching Papers

The Getty Museum in CA by David McNews / Getty ImagesDavid McNews / Getty Images
Paper research is easier than ever. In addition to trusty old sources like books, the Internet has opened many new doors. Know your choices when you set out to research a paper.

7. Teach What You Learn

Buccina Studios / Getty Images
Teaching what you've learned can be one of the very best ways of making sure you understand it. Teach your spouse, your child, and you'll find the chinks in your understanding. Teach your cat if he's the only one around.

8. Write Practice Tests

Student Studying by Marili Forastieri / Getty ImagesMarili Forastieri / Getty Images
Writing your own practice tests is one of the best ways to get higher grades. The extra time investment will pay off.

9. Avoid Stress

Stress Free by Photodisc - Getty ImagesPhotodisc - Getty Images
Are you choosing stress? Did you know you have a choice? Dr. Al Siebert teaches people how to avoid stress, and the difference between stressing and straining. Avoid stressing and watch your grades improve.

10. Meditate

Meditate by Dougal Waters - Getty ImagesDougal Waters - Getty Images
Meditation is one of the great secrets in life. If you're not already someone who meditates, give yourself a gift and learn how. You'll relieve stress, study better, and wonder how you ever got along without it.

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