When taking notes, don't just write the solutions to the problems that the instructor works out, but write the explanations as well. Out to the side of the math, make notes on the steps so that you understand the significance of each step. Also, pay attention to examples or issues the instructor seems to be stressing. Mark these because they will usually appear on a test. Also, include common errors that the instructor points out or any words of caution. If you have difficulty writing everything and paying attention at the same time, ask your instructor whether you can record the lectures with a small tape recorder. Also, if your instructor follows the text closely, when he or she points out definitions or procedures in the text, highlight them or write a page reference in your notes. You can then write these referenced items in their proper place in your notes after class.

2. Answer the instructor's questions. This does not mean you have to answer every question verbally, but you should think through every question and answer in your mind, on your paper, or out loud if you are comfortable.

3. Ask questions. You may find it uncomfortable to ask question in front of other people, but keep in mind that if you have a question, then it is very likely that someone else has the same question. If you still don't feel like asking in class, then be sure to ask as soon as class is over. The main thing is to get that question answered as soon as possible because in mathematics, one misconception can fester and become a major problem in the future.

AFTER CLASS:

Prepare for the next class meeting as if you are going to have a test on everything covered so far. To make the most of your time, set aside a specific time that is reserved for math. Since there are often too many distractions at home, do your math study while on campus in a quiet place such as the library or tutorial lab. Also, staying on campus allows you to visit your instructor or tutorial services if you have a question that you cannot resolve. Here is a systematic approach to use in organizing your math study time outside of class.

1. As soon as possible, go over your notes. Clarify any sentences that weren't quite complete. Fill in any page-referenced material.

2. Read through the relevant section(s) in the text again, and make sure you understand all the examples.

3. Transfer each new procedure or rule to your study sheet for that chapter. You might also write down important terms or their definitions. A good way to approach your study sheets is to make headings for each objective in the section(s) you covered that day. Write the procedures and definitions in your own words. Don't feel like you have to duplicate the wording in the text or your instructor's words. The important thing is to write in a language that makes sense to you.

4. Study the examples worked in class. Transfer each example to the practice test section of your notebook. Do not write the solution. Just write the problem and its instructions and leave room to work it out later.

5. Use your outline to do the assigned practice problems. As soon as you finish each problem, check your answer in the back of the book or in the solutions manual. If you did not get it correct, then troubleshoot it immediately. If you are asked to do even-numbered problems, then work odd-numbered problems that are just like the even problems. That way you can check your asnwers for the odd-numbered problems and then work the even-numbered problems with confidence.

6. After completing the homework, prepare a quiz for yourself. Select from the homework one of each type of problem. Don't just pick the easy ones! Set the quiz aside for later.

7. After making the quiz, study your study sheet. To test your understanding, write the objective headings on a blank piece of paper and see whether you can write an explanation of each objective. Again, do not focus on memorizing wording. The important thing is for you to evaluate how well you understand what you are learning. If you can explain each objective in writing then you have a good understanding of the material.

8. Now it is time to begin preparing for the next class meeting. Read the next section(s) to be covered. Don't worry if you do not understand everything. The idea is to get some feeling for the topics to be discussed so that the class discussion will actually be the second time you encounter with the material, not the first. While reading, you might mark points that you find difficult so that if the instructor does not clear them up, you can ask about them. Also, attempt to work through the examples. Again, the idea is for you to try to do as much as possible on your own before class so that the in-class discussion merely ties loose ends together and solidifies the material.