Doing everything I want to do requires a lot of effort and planning

How to Study Math

In order to be successful in a college level math class you have to commit to some very important things: (this is not a comprehensive list but a starting point to get you thinking):

Go to class, every class.
Be active in class! Take notes. Think about the material. Ask questions.
Do something with the material you just learned and do it within a few hours of class.

Rewrite your notes; change the wording; change the order; rewrite the notes so they work for you.
Redo the examples from your notes on your own; can you do them without looking at the completed problem?
Write the steps you took to complete the example. Try using a Math Concept Sheet to organize your work. Here is an example of a completed Math Concept Sheet.

Complete all the homework.

Find out if you are doing it correctly. Check your answers in the back of the book. Go to one of the drop-in math and physics tutoring centers and ask questions. You shouldn’t wonder if you are doing your math correctly; find out!
You instructor gives homework so that you have a sufficient amount of practice with the material. You may need more and only you will know that. The key is doing more if you need more.

Assess your skills regularly. Be sure you know which topics you understand and which topics need more work. Don’t wait until just before the test to find out.
Prepare for quizzes and tests early.

You may need help improving your study skills so be sure to learn about the ASC Study Skills offerings at RIT.

You will find many websites offering valuable and more thorough information than I have just provided. Search the web—here is a list of topics you may want to search: