15 answers
Ewura Efuwah
Student
Woodbridge Township, New Jersey
1
Question
Updated
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What study habits or resources made the biggest difference for you when doing coursework?
I am a high school senior going to college as an accounting major. Any studying tips or advice would be greatly appreciated! #Spring25
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15 answers
Nancy Uthke
Programmer
17
Answers
Rochester, Minnesota
Updated
Nancy’s Answer
Hey, awesome question! I'm really happy to see you're planning for success!
1. Don't be shy about asking questions in class. It might feel a bit scary, but trust me, others will be thankful you did. It saves you time later trying to figure out what the professor meant, and it can make things clearer right away.
2. This tip takes some effort, but it's really worth it: Every day, go over your notes from that day and the two days before. This helps you remember things better.
3. Make sure to visit office hours at least once for each class, even if it's just to say hi to the professor or teaching assistant. They can share useful insights that help connect ideas. If you're having trouble with the course material, try to go to office hours as often as you can. Professors are there to teach, so take advantage of their time to get your questions answered.
Hope this helps you out. Good luck with your studies!
1. Don't be shy about asking questions in class. It might feel a bit scary, but trust me, others will be thankful you did. It saves you time later trying to figure out what the professor meant, and it can make things clearer right away.
2. This tip takes some effort, but it's really worth it: Every day, go over your notes from that day and the two days before. This helps you remember things better.
3. Make sure to visit office hours at least once for each class, even if it's just to say hi to the professor or teaching assistant. They can share useful insights that help connect ideas. If you're having trouble with the course material, try to go to office hours as often as you can. Professors are there to teach, so take advantage of their time to get your questions answered.
Hope this helps you out. Good luck with your studies!
Alex Shankles
Accounting
2
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Alex’s Answer
Hi Ewura,
When I moved from high school to college, the toughest lesson was learning to study a little every day. It's way easier to tackle each topic daily than to cram everything in right before a test. It took me quite a while to get this down, but once I did, it made a big difference. Without the pressure of an upcoming exam, it can be tough to find the motivation to study, especially with all the fun stuff happening around you. But putting in the effort early on really pays off in the long run and makes the next topics easier to handle.
When I moved from high school to college, the toughest lesson was learning to study a little every day. It's way easier to tackle each topic daily than to cram everything in right before a test. It took me quite a while to get this down, but once I did, it made a big difference. Without the pressure of an upcoming exam, it can be tough to find the motivation to study, especially with all the fun stuff happening around you. But putting in the effort early on really pays off in the long run and makes the next topics easier to handle.
Matthew Walker
Tax Manager
2
Answers
Scranton, Pennsylvania
Updated
Matthew’s Answer
One study habit that really helped me pass the CPA exams was putting the material into my own words. This method makes sure you really get the content. If you can't explain something in your own words, don't worry—just ask for help. Once you're confident with your study guide, keep using it until you can explain the material to someone else. Pay extra attention to parts where it's hard to use your own words. Keep going—you've got this!
Tanya Hopkins, PHR
Human Resources - People Partner
6
Answers
San Ramon, California
Updated
Tanya’s Answer
Hi Ewura,
Great job on asking such a fantastic question—taking initiative is impressive! I fully support everything Nancy mentioned earlier. Here are a few more tips that have worked for me and can help anyone seeking guidance. These skills will also be valuable in your career after college.
1. Stay organized: Keeping a separate notebook or digital folder for each class really helped me keep my notes and materials tidy.
2. Prioritize upcoming deadlines: At the start and end of each week, spend a few minutes checking what’s due soon. Focus on deadlines first before moving on to other tasks or studying.
3. Take care of yourself: Include breaks in your study sessions to prevent burnout. Remember, caring for your mental and physical health is just as crucial as doing well in school.
Wishing you the very best of luck! You've got this. :)
Great job on asking such a fantastic question—taking initiative is impressive! I fully support everything Nancy mentioned earlier. Here are a few more tips that have worked for me and can help anyone seeking guidance. These skills will also be valuable in your career after college.
1. Stay organized: Keeping a separate notebook or digital folder for each class really helped me keep my notes and materials tidy.
2. Prioritize upcoming deadlines: At the start and end of each week, spend a few minutes checking what’s due soon. Focus on deadlines first before moving on to other tasks or studying.
3. Take care of yourself: Include breaks in your study sessions to prevent burnout. Remember, caring for your mental and physical health is just as crucial as doing well in school.
Wishing you the very best of luck! You've got this. :)
Makenzie Roan
Accounting
3
Answers
Royse City, Texas
Updated
Makenzie’s Answer
It's fantastic that you're already considering this!
Remember, there are extra resources available to help you. Don't hesitate to ask questions and try to join a study group. While technology is useful, I found that writing out my notes really made a difference. There's something about putting pen to paper that helps your brain remember!
I hope you have an amazing time in college! Best of luck!
Remember, there are extra resources available to help you. Don't hesitate to ask questions and try to join a study group. While technology is useful, I found that writing out my notes really made a difference. There's something about putting pen to paper that helps your brain remember!
I hope you have an amazing time in college! Best of luck!
Alex Johnson
Tax Accountant
2
Answers
St. Louis, MO
Updated
Alex’s Answer
The main thing I realized in college is that everyone is vastly different when it comes to how they study and what works best for them.
That being said, if you can cover all of the main study retention methods (auditory, visual, reciting, etc.), you normally have a better chance of understanding the material and passing exams. Things that worked for me (both in college and then studying for the CPA exam are as follows):
1. Actually read the textbook v. just listening to the lecture
2. Make your own flash cards
3. Create a study schedule and stick to it (make sure you are allotting enough time for brain breaks and fresh air)
4. Go to a library or public space to study (less likely to get distracted with cleaning, watching tv, etc.)
Good luck in your studies!
That being said, if you can cover all of the main study retention methods (auditory, visual, reciting, etc.), you normally have a better chance of understanding the material and passing exams. Things that worked for me (both in college and then studying for the CPA exam are as follows):
1. Actually read the textbook v. just listening to the lecture
2. Make your own flash cards
3. Create a study schedule and stick to it (make sure you are allotting enough time for brain breaks and fresh air)
4. Go to a library or public space to study (less likely to get distracted with cleaning, watching tv, etc.)
Good luck in your studies!
Julian Vela
Tax Consultant
2
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Julian’s Answer
You're in a great spot thinking ahead as you head into College!
1. To echo Nancy, it's a great help to take advantage of additional resources that are provided to you, whether it's office hours or TA sessions. These not only help to show your instructors you intent to learn, but also serve as opportunities for further explanations on difficult topics, where the main class time may not be long enough for in depth teaching. I was able to become much more conversational with a few professors after consistently attending office hours, and they were able to provide not only educational advice, but life advice in general.
2. Flash cards were my best friend in college, as reading through textbooks did not help me retain knowledge in the best way. While time consuming, writing out each flashcard actually helped stick the information in my mind from the get go, and I was able to flip through them and retest myself on specific areas.
3. If possible, try to form a small study group in your classes! The biggest shift when heading into college from high school is that no one is going to be there to tell you to study or do your homework. For myself, having a small group to work with helped me to stay accountable and on top of my coursework.
Enjoy college, it's such a great time of life!!
1. To echo Nancy, it's a great help to take advantage of additional resources that are provided to you, whether it's office hours or TA sessions. These not only help to show your instructors you intent to learn, but also serve as opportunities for further explanations on difficult topics, where the main class time may not be long enough for in depth teaching. I was able to become much more conversational with a few professors after consistently attending office hours, and they were able to provide not only educational advice, but life advice in general.
2. Flash cards were my best friend in college, as reading through textbooks did not help me retain knowledge in the best way. While time consuming, writing out each flashcard actually helped stick the information in my mind from the get go, and I was able to flip through them and retest myself on specific areas.
3. If possible, try to form a small study group in your classes! The biggest shift when heading into college from high school is that no one is going to be there to tell you to study or do your homework. For myself, having a small group to work with helped me to stay accountable and on top of my coursework.
Enjoy college, it's such a great time of life!!
Harry Sunder
Accounting
3
Answers
Oceanside, New York
Updated
Harry’s Answer
I found often times, leaving yourself ample time to review before exams to be key as courses got progressively more difficult. Studying the night before can be done but definitely makes it harder and adds to your stress levels. Keeping an open dialogue with your professors is also something that can be overlooked but can be instrumental in picking up tips that can benefit you within that course or may be valuable down the line. Good luck with your studies!
Sarah Feroz
Auditor, accounting
2
Answers
Castro Valley, California
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
1. Taking notes during lectures is a great start, but the real learning happens when you go back and refine them. Try adding more details, rewriting them, and then using them to create a study plan. When I was an accounting major, I found it helpful to listen for extra details from the professor that weren't on the slides. Organize your notes, maybe use different colors for key ideas and important vocabulary. At the end of the day, rewrite your notes and make flashcards from them. Review these flashcards every day. It might feel like you're doing extra work, but these steps will really help and soon become a habit.
2. Make the most of every resource available to you. It took me two years to discover that my university's business building had a tutoring department. Once I found it, I used their open hours to do homework and deepen my understanding.
3. Consider joining an accounting club! Being around others who share your major and goals can be incredibly motivating, especially when coursework gets tough. They can offer support and study with you, making the journey much easier.
Use the Summer to research effective note taking.
Use the Summer to take free Khan Academy courses in accounting or use YouTube to research.
Find out about any free tutoring services at your college.
Find out about any accounting clubs at your college.
2. Make the most of every resource available to you. It took me two years to discover that my university's business building had a tutoring department. Once I found it, I used their open hours to do homework and deepen my understanding.
3. Consider joining an accounting club! Being around others who share your major and goals can be incredibly motivating, especially when coursework gets tough. They can offer support and study with you, making the journey much easier.
Sarah recommends the following next steps:
Gregory Gobran
Senior Analyst
6
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Gregory’s Answer
Make sure you set time for yourself to review any notes you have before the exam. I would say if you manage your time well that will give you the time you need to help you study.
Peter Burns, CPA - Audit Partner
Partner at public accounting firm - audit
6
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Peter’s Answer
I've discovered that being organized and staying focused on what I'm doing really helps. In today's busy world, with things like social media and TikTok, it's easy for our minds to wander. But when we concentrate fully on our tasks, we can achieve so much more. Keep your focus, and you'll see great results!
Michelle Montgomery
Senior HR Coordinator
2
Answers
Tempe, Arizona
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello Ewura! Great question - I found that finding a study group for that class or subject can be highly helpful. Additionally, setting a schedule and sticking to it; I remember university being difficult because of keeping up with studying and a social life. Looking back, I wish I spent just a little more time on my studies, so I wasn't stressed for some exams. Always ask questions - if you don't understand something, it is better to ask the professor or teachers assistant, so they know you are trying to understand, and they can provide the best study materials. Going back to creating a schedule; I recommend a planner to write all the necessary tasks to complete each day/week/month. Take some time at the beginning of each semester and plan out what your days are going to look like, so you don't forget about exams or assignments. Lastly, I found that studying in the library (away from the dorm or social places) helped with minimizing distractions and the library on campus had free tutors! Good luck!
Lyle Birnhak, CPA.CITP
Accounting
1
Answer
Franklin Lakes, New Jersey
Updated
Lyle’s Answer
Hi! What a great question. Here are some tips to help you:
1) Always look for practical ways to use what you learn. Instead of just memorizing terms, try to see how each part of accounting fits into understanding a business's overall health. It’s a process, and every piece matters.
2) Keep asking questions and never stop learning. Even after years in the field, I still find it important to ask questions and learn more about issues that matter to my colleagues and business owners.
3) Be patient and don’t feel overwhelmed by all the information. Not everything will be relevant to your career. Some accountants specialize in tax, while others focus on audit or consulting. Take your time to discover what you enjoy and focus on that.
Good luck, and keep going! You can do it!
1) Always look for practical ways to use what you learn. Instead of just memorizing terms, try to see how each part of accounting fits into understanding a business's overall health. It’s a process, and every piece matters.
2) Keep asking questions and never stop learning. Even after years in the field, I still find it important to ask questions and learn more about issues that matter to my colleagues and business owners.
3) Be patient and don’t feel overwhelmed by all the information. Not everything will be relevant to your career. Some accountants specialize in tax, while others focus on audit or consulting. Take your time to discover what you enjoy and focus on that.
Good luck, and keep going! You can do it!
Nancy Uthke
Programmer
17
Answers
Rochester, Minnesota
Updated
Nancy’s Answer
You've got lots of helpful answers here, but I just realized we forgot to mention the "Syllabus"!
The syllabus is like the plan for your class topics and assignments. Make sure to keep track of it for each class so you know what's coming up and can see how the course is progressing. It's like a roadmap for your class. If it seems like the professor is going off track, ask if anything has changed.
Sometimes, professors include information in the syllabus that they don't talk about in class. Only students who check the syllabus will know about these extra topics, which might show up on a test.
So, just keep an eye on the syllabus to stay on top of things!
The syllabus is like the plan for your class topics and assignments. Make sure to keep track of it for each class so you know what's coming up and can see how the course is progressing. It's like a roadmap for your class. If it seems like the professor is going off track, ask if anything has changed.
Sometimes, professors include information in the syllabus that they don't talk about in class. Only students who check the syllabus will know about these extra topics, which might show up on a test.
So, just keep an eye on the syllabus to stay on top of things!
Elizabeth Gonzalez
Auditor
3
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Elizabeth’s Answer
Hi Ewura!
Different study habits work for different people. I'm sure that you have already developed something that has worked for you during high school. I would focus on what's worked for you in the past and keep developing that. For example, if you study best with no distractions, find a quiet place at the college you are attending and make that your study area. I used to have this small nook area in our college's library where I would get most of my studying done. During college, I believe the key is staying organized and focused. You will be a lot more independent in college and there might be more distractions so it's good to set up a daily or weekly study time to focus on what you need to focus on. Don't forget to have fun as well!
Different study habits work for different people. I'm sure that you have already developed something that has worked for you during high school. I would focus on what's worked for you in the past and keep developing that. For example, if you study best with no distractions, find a quiet place at the college you are attending and make that your study area. I used to have this small nook area in our college's library where I would get most of my studying done. During college, I believe the key is staying organized and focused. You will be a lot more independent in college and there might be more distractions so it's good to set up a daily or weekly study time to focus on what you need to focus on. Don't forget to have fun as well!