When setting up your page to take notes, write the date, subject, and page number at the top of the page. As the instructor lectures, do not try to use complete sentences. Only write down what you will need to know and use abbreviations and shortened forms of words. You can always add to your notes later. After class, you can underline the information that you think will be on the test. Some find that typing your notes helps you retain the material and better organizes the information. Take quality notes during every class. Attend every class possible.
Reading the Text
Before you begin reading the textbook, first skim the information. Look at the titles, subtitles, images, charts, summary, and review questions. Get informed about what you will be reading. As you read, underline or highlight and jot down notes in your notebook about the important information. I recommend underling the information in your text in pencil, so that you can erase the lines later. I also recommend typing up the notes that you jotted down and integrating them with the notes that you took during the lectures.
Find a good place to study
This means a desk with nothing on it except what you need for the task you are going to work on. Move everything out of the way, so that you can concentrate. Only take out the materials that you will need to study. The study place should have adequate lighting, a flat surface on which you will read and write, a comfortable chair, and minimal distractions. The place should be free of noise, with the exception of playing soft classical music.
Keep an Assignment Notebook with a Calendar
Write down your assignments immediately in your notebook and calendar. Listen carefully when the instructor gives the assignment and write down all of the requirements.
Create a Study Schedule
Designate a specific time and place in which you will study daily. Be consistent with your study place and time, and make a list of materials you will need to study on each day. Check off the materials after you have studied them. Avoid cramming.
Focus on the Materials
Make sure to wear your contacts or glasses when studying. Also, make sure that you are not distracted by things in your environment, such as people, televisions, computers, and radios. Study the subjects that are boring to you first. Then move on to the more interesting subjects.
Study Aids
Making flash cards, outlines, and summary sheets helps many in retaining information.
Study Groups
Study groups should not replace individual study. Study groups can enhance what you have already learned because group members articulate concepts, contribute different perspectives, and provide for a better grasp on the information. Study groups can also make studying enjoyable.
Monitor Your Health
Eating right and exercising can enhance your ability to study and obtain knowledge.
Take Breaks
Schedule break sessions during your studying. At first, you may want to take frequent breaks, but try to be consistent with how often and how long each break is.
References:
http://www.eduplace.com/rdg/res/literacy/st_read6.html
http://www.how-to-study.com/Preparing%20to%20Study.htm
http://www.mtsu.edu/~studskl/
http://slc.berkeley.edu/calrenhp.html