Center for Academic Success and Achievement
Strategies and Resources for Student Success
Our Success Coaching team has put together a collection of our top-recommended tools and strategies to help you thrive in college. Take some time to explore these resources at your own pace and save the ones that best support your goals.
If you’d like to go deeper or talk through your academic journey, schedule a Success Coaching session with CASA today — we’re here to help you every step of the way!
Learning & Studying: Choose a method that works for you
The Pomodoro Technique is a time-management method designed to improve focus and productivity by working in short, structured intervals with regular breaks. It was developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s and named after the tomato-shaped kitchen timer (“pomodoro” means tomato in Italian) that he used.
How it works:
|
Step |
Description |
|
Pick a Task |
Choose one task to focus on — big or small — and commit your full attention. |
|
Set a 25-Minute Timer |
Promise yourself you’ll work for 25 minutes straight with no distractions. |
|
Work Until the Timer Rings |
Stay focused! If something else comes to mind, jot it down and refocus. |
|
Mark Your Progress |
When the timer rings, celebrate your focus — that’s one Pomodoro completed! |
|
Take a Short Break (5 Minutes) |
Stretch, grab a snack, or step away from your desk to recharge. |
|
After 4 Pomodoros, Take a Longer Break (20–30 Minutes) |
Give your brain time to rest before you dive back in. |
Bear Tip: Small bursts of focus create big results — one Pomodoro at a time!
Study smarter — not harder!
Distributed learning (also called spaced learning or spaced practice) means spreading your study sessions out over time instead of cramming everything in at once.
By reviewing material multiple times with breaks in between, your brain has time to process and store information more effectively.
- Strengthens long-term memory
- Prevents mental overload and fatigue
- Improves focus and recall
- Encourages deeper understanding
- Helps you retain information for exams and real-world use
How it works:
|
Step |
Description |
|
Plan Ahead |
Break your study material into smaller chunks. |
|
Study in Short Sessions |
20–30 minutes per topic is plenty! |
|
Review Regularly |
Revisit what you’ve learned over several days or weeks. |
|
Mix It Up |
Use flashcards, quizzes, summaries, or teach others. |
|
Track Your Progress |
Note which topics need more review and improvement. |
Bear Tip: Spacing your study sessions helps your brain learn smarter, not harder!
Example:
Let’s say you are in Biology. You crammed for your first two tests, and earned a B and a C on them. Now it is time for the mid-term exam, and when you go back and look at those first two tests, there are a lot of terms that you don’t remember at all. You realize that you won’t be able to cram for the mid-term.

So what could you do to prepare?

Have you ever wondered how much time you should spend studying for the week?
The 2:1 Study Method is one way to help you figure out your study time.
Look at the total number of credit hours you are taking for the semester. Multiply the total number of credit hours by 2. That is the amount of hours you should spend studying for the week.
Example:
John is taking the following:
- BIOL101 INTRO BIOLOGY I- 4 credits
- COMM203 MEDIA LTRCY IN A DIV WRLD- 3 credits
- ECON211 PRIN OF ECONOMICS I- 3 credits
- ENGL102 COMPOSITION II- 3 credits
- HLTH200 DISCOVERING PUBLIC HEALTH- 3 credits
John is taking a total of 16 credits for the semester.
Multiply 16 credits by 2 to get 36. This means John should spend 36 hours a week studying.
Did you wait a week before the exam to start studying? If so, take a look at this video for tips on how to gain the most out of studying within a 5 day period.
What Are Learning Styles?
Learning styles describe how you best take in, process, and remember information.
Knowing your learning style helps you study smarter, improve focus, and retain information more effectively.
Most people are a mix of all three styles but tend to have one that’s strongest.
|
Learning Style |
Description |
Study Tips & Strategies |
|
Auditory Learners |
Learn best by hearing information, discussions, and verbal explanations. |
• Read notes out loud. |
|
Visual Learners |
Learn best by seeing and visualizing information. |
• Use diagrams, charts, and color-coded notes. |
|
Kinesthetic Learners |
Learn best through hands-on experiences and movement. |
• Take short study breaks to move around. |
Bear Tip: Discover your learning style — and study smarter, not harder! Visit CASA for personalized coaching and support.
Click here for additional study strategies
Click her to take the quick and free learning styles quiz to determine how you learn Free Learning Style Quiz: How Do You Learn?
Note-Taking Strategies
Knowing how to concentrate is more important than you may think:
Taking notes keeps your mind active and engaged during class. Instead of passively listening, you’re processing, organizing, and summarizing what’s being said — which helps you stay alert, memorize, understand material more deeply. Writing things down helps you listen with purpose.
Abbreviations are a great way to take notes faster. Many of us do this when we send text messages. We use the letter R instead of typing our A-R-E. Or we don’t type the vowels in a word. You can use these same abbreviations when you take notes. Just be sure to write in your notes somewhere what your abbreviations stand for. This is especially important when you make up abbreviations during class.
Look at these notes. What are the abbreviations you see? What do they mean? Let’s start at the top of the page.

- Aka means also known as and indicates a name change. So these notes mean the countries that we call Syria, Iran, Iraq, and Turkey are what used to be called Mesopotamia. And that Mesopotamia used to be known as Babylonia, Sumer, and Akkadia
- You see the two times in these notes. The triangle means change or transform.
- b/c means because
- rvrs means rivers
- imp means important
- rlgn means religion
- the + sign means and or plus.
Cornell Method

Outline Method

Mapping Method

Charting Method

Sentence Method

Take a look at these quick videos for tips on note-taking strategies.
How to Take Notes in Class: The 5 Best Methods - College Info Geek
Effective Note Taking Tips (BEFORE, DURING, AFTER LECTURES)
Reading Strategies
|
Topic |
Key Points |
|
Active Reading Strategies |
• Preview material before reading (headings, summaries, bold terms). |
|
Manage Your Reading Load |
• Prioritize readings based on deadlines and importance. |
|
Read for Deeper Understanding |
• Connect readings to lectures and assignments. |
|
Campus Resources for Help |
• Tutoring Centers – help with comprehension and study skills. |
Bear Tip: Read actively, take notes, and connect ideas — that’s how college reading turns into learning!
Different types of textbook and reading assignments require different environments. You wouldn’t read a textbook the same way you would read a novel or a cookbook.
How should you prepare yourself to read a textbook?
- Plan to read short sections rather than multiple chapters.
- Read at a time of day when you aren’t tired.
- Set an intention like reading for 30 minutes straight or reading 15 pages.
- Eat a healthy snack and avoid sugary, caffeinated drinks.
- Be comfortable but not too comfortable that you fall asleep.
When you first open your textbook to read an assigned chapter, you should first SURVEY the chapter. This means flip through the pages and make some initial mental notes, such as how long the chapter is, and if there are review questions or a summary at the end of the chapter. Then follow these steps to begin to think critically about what’s in the chapter:

After you prepare to read and then survey your assigned reading, you finally get to read the text. As you read, you should annotate or take notes while you read. It is best to annotate in your text, but you can also annotate in your notebook.
Annotations that use pictures and some words:

Annotations that use words
After you finish reading an assigned chapter or article, you aren’t finished with it. You should regularly review what you’ve read to keep the ideas fresh in your mind. What can you do to review a chapter?
Here are some review activities you can try:

Highlighting and underlining are passive reading techniques. To read actively, you need to interact with the text.
If you want to highlight and underline, then you should annotate in your textbook or write notes on what you highlighted and underlined.
Take a look at this quick video for college reading tips:
How to Read Your Textbooks More Efficiently - College Info Geek
Testing-Taking Strategies
General test/exam-taking tips:
- Create study tools and recite/ recreate them from memory. Try creating a study guide, flashcards, chart, table, or outline.
- Create self-tests and take them. Predict test questions or essay questions to create your own self-test. You can also answer sample questions from your textbook.
- Teach someone else. Review material with a partner or study group. Be sure to explain/ teach material out loud to group members.
College Test & Exam Tips
|
Category |
Key Strategies |
|
Before the Test/Exam |
• Study 45–60 minutes daily (with breaks) at least a week before. |
|
During the Test/Exam |
• Write down what you know before starting. |
|
After the Test/Exam |
• Ask for feedback on unclear questions. |
Bear Tip: Prepare early, stay calm, and learn from every test — success builds one exam at a time!
Concentration is Key
Knowing how to concentrate is more important than you may think:
When students concentrate deeply, they process information more effectively. Focus allows the brain to store and recall material during exams, discussions, and assignments.
College Student Tips for Concentration
|
Category |
Tips |
|
1. Set Clear Goals |
• Break big tasks into smaller steps. |
|
2. Manage Your Environment |
• Study in a quiet, distraction-free space. |
|
3. Plan Study Time Wisley |
• Work when your energy is highest (morning or night). |
|
4. Strengthen Your Mind |
• Practice mindfulness or meditation daily. |
|
5. Fuel Your Brain |
• Eat healthy snacks (nuts, fruit, yogurt). |
|
6. Use Study Support |
• Join or form a study group for accountability. |
Mid-Terms & Final Exams
How to manage the stress of mid-terms and final exams:
Creating a clear plan and beginning your preparation early can make mid-terms and final exams much less overwhelming. Consider forming study groups and choosing a quiet, productive workspace to boost your efficiency. Along the way, use study tools like guides, flashcards, or practice questions — and don’t forget to prioritize rest and good sleep.
College Student Study Plan for Mid-Terms & Final Exams
|
Step |
Goal |
Strategies & Tips |
|
Step 1: Plan Your Schedule |
Map out your exam period so nothing sneaks up on you. |
• List your finals (date, time, type) |
|
Step 2: Organize Your Materials |
Have everything you need before studying. |
• Gather notes, slides, textbooks, old exams |
|
Step 3: Use Effective Study Techniques |
Study smart, not just long. |
• Use a study method (Pomodoro, Distributed Practice, or 2:1 Method) and remember to take breaks • Tip: Study hardest subjects during your peak time |
|
Step 4: Collaborate & Get Support |
Use your academic and social support network. |
• Join or form study groups |
|
Step 5: Take Care of Yourself |
Protect your mental and physical health. |
• Sleep 7–9 hours nightly |
|
Step 6: Exam Week Strategy |
Approach finals week with confidence. |
• Review summaries and key concepts |
Unmotivated to study
Lack of motivation is something almost every college student struggles with at some point. You feel unmotivated to look at notes, crack open a book, or even attend class. It’s important to learn strategies for getting yourself Re-Motivated so you can get back on track!
How to Study When You Have No Motivation
|
Step |
Focus |
Tips & Strategies |
|
1. Start Small — Really Small |
Ease into studying by starting small to build momentum. |
• Start with just 5–10 minutes. |
|
2. Focus on Discipline, Not Motivation |
Build consistent habits rather than waiting to ‘feel’ motivated. |
• Stick to a daily study routine. |
|
3. Use the '2-Minute Rule' |
Overcome procrastination with quick, low-effort actions. |
• Start with small actions that take under two minutes. |
|
4. Connect to Your 'Why' |
Reconnect with your personal goals and reasons for success. |
• Reflect on why you’re in college or your career goals. |
|
5. Add Physical Exercise |
Boost focus and mood through movement. |
• Take short breaks to stretch, walk, or do light workouts. |
|
6. Change Your Environment |
Switch locations to reset your energy and focus. |
• Study somewhere new like the library or café. |
|
7. Get Accountability |
Use social support to stay consistent. |
• Join or form a study group. |
|
8. Be Kind to Yourself |
Practice self-compassion on hard days. |
• Accept that motivation fluctuates. |
Time Management In College
Managing your time wisely:
Creating a clear plan and beginning your preparation early can make mid-terms and final exams much less overwhelming. Consider forming study groups and choosing a quiet, productive workspace to boost your efficiency. Along the way, use study tools like guides, flashcards.
Time Management & Studying
College brings freedom — but also responsibility. Managing your time well helps you balance classes, studying, work, and personal life. Good time management reduces stress, prevents last-minute cramming, and improves grades and overall well-being.
Don’t overload your memory
Instead of trying to remember everything at once, make a to-do list and highlight the most important tasks first. Prioritizing helps you stay focused on what truly matters.
Get organized and plan ahead
Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of deadlines and study sessions. Tools like a 'quarter-at-a-glance' or 'time finder' can help you visualize your schedule and manage your time better.
Cut out distractions
Limit anything that pulls your attention away from studying — like your phone, TV, or streaming apps. The fewer distractions, the easier it is to stay productive.
Don’t cram — plan
Avoid last-minute studying by creating a structured study schedule. Include details like when, where, and what you’ll study each day, plus the methods you’ll use. Sticking to your plan keeps you on track and reduces stress.
Learn to say “no”
When exams are coming up, it’s okay to turn down extra commitments. Protect your time and energy so you can focus on preparing effectively.
Bear in mind: Good organization and time management are the keys to success!
Time Management in College
|
Section |
Focus |
Tips & Strategies |
|
1. Plan Ahead |
Stay ahead of deadlines and manage long-term assignments. |
• Use a planner or digital calendar for deadlines |
|
2. Prioritize Your Tasks |
Identify what truly needs your attention first. |
• Separate urgent vs. important tasks |
|
3. Create a Daily Routine |
Build structure into your day for consistent productivity. |
• Study at the same time daily |
|
4. Avoid Procrastination |
Beat distractions and start tasks early. |
• Begin with easier tasks to build momentum |
|
5. Learn to Say 'No' |
Protect your schedule and energy. |
• Don’t overcommit to activities or social plans |
|
6. Take Care of Yourself |
Balance productivity with wellness. |
• Sleep 7–9 hours per night |
|
7. Review and Adjust |
Reflect and improve your time management each week. |
• Review your progress weekly |
Take a quick look at this short time management video for tips also.
Procrastination
Avoiding Procrastination:
Procrastination often leads to rushed assignments and last-minute cramming. When you manage your time better and start early, you produce higher-quality work and better understand the material — which usually means better grades. Doing your best requires giving yourself enough time to think, plan, and revise.
How College Students Can Stop Procrastinating
|
Step |
Focus |
Quick Tips & Strategies |
|
1. Know Why You Procrastinate |
Identify what’s holding you back. |
• Tasks feel too big |
|
2. Break It Down |
Make large tasks manageable. |
• Divide into smaller steps |
|
3. Try a study method |
Stay focused in short bursts. |
• 25 min work / 5 min break |
|
4. Stick to a Schedule |
Build a steady routine. |
• Plan when & where to study |
|
5. Cut Distractions |
Focus fully on one task. |
• Silence phone |
|
6. Find Accountability |
Use others for motivation. |
• Study with a friend |
|
7. Take Care of Yourself |
Balance energy and focus. |
• Sleep, eat, and move daily |
|
8. Just Start! |
Action fuels motivation. |
• Work for 'just 10 minutes' |
Bear Tip: Start small, stay steady, and success will follow!
Take a quick look at this short video for tips avoiding procrastination.
Communicating With Professors
Sending an effective email to your professors:
Good communication helps you form a positive connection with your professors. When you reach out, they get to know you as a student — not just a name on the roster. These relationships can lead to mentorship, guidance, and future recommendation letters.
College Student Tips: Talking to Your Professor
|
Tip |
Focus |
Quick Advice |
|
1. Be Respectful & Professional |
Use polite, academic communication. |
• Address as 'Professor' or 'Dr.' |
|
2. Plan Before You Speak |
Know your reason for meeting. |
• Prepare questions |
|
3. Write Effective Emails |
Keep messages short and clear. |
• Use a short subject line |
|
4. Use Office Hours Wisely |
Meet early & come prepared. |
• Don’t wait until exams |
|
5. Be Honest & Accountable |
Take ownership of your learning. |
• Be upfront about issues |
|
6. Build Positive Relationships |
Stay engaged & show appreciation. |
• Participate in class |
Bear Tip: Professors are here to help — communication is key to success!
Take a quick look at this video for tips on emailing your professor.
Attending Professor Office Hours
Never be afraid to meet with your professor:
What are office hours? Office hours are set times when professors are available to meet with students outside of class. You can stop by to ask questions, get feedback, or discuss course material.
They’re not just for students who are struggling — they’re for anyone who wants to learn, connect, and succeed.
Think of office hours as free one-on-one tutoring from the person who wrote the exam!
College Students: Making the Most of Professor Office Hours
|
Section |
Focus |
Tips & Strategies |
|
1. What Are Office Hours? |
Times when professors are available to help students. |
• Ask questions, get feedback, or discuss material. |
|
2. Why Office Hours Matter |
Helps you succeed academically and build relationships. |
• Clarify lectures or assignments. |
|
3. When to Go |
Choose times that make the most impact. |
• Before exams or major projects. |
|
4. What to Talk About |
Bring specific topics or questions. |
• Discuss class topics or study tips. |
|
5. How to Be Professional |
Show respect and preparation. |
• Arrive on time. |
|
6. Benefits of Office Hours |
Gain confidence, clarity, and support. |
• Improve understanding and grades. |
Bear Tip: Office hours aren’t just for help—they’re for growth and connection!
Managing & Reducing Stress
Stress as a college student
College life can be exciting and challenging, but it can also be stressful. Understanding what causes stress and learning effective ways to manage it are key to staying healthy, focused, and successful.
Stress Management for College Students
|
Topic |
Key Points |
|
What Is Stress? |
Stress is the body’s response to pressure or challenges. A small amount can motivate you, but too much can impact focus, health, and performance. |
|
Causes of Stress |
• Academic pressure and deadlines |
|
Common Symptoms |
• Trouble concentrating or sleeping |
|
Strategies for Stress Relief |
• Practice self-care: sleep well, eat healthy, and stay active. |
|
Preventing Burnout |
• Balance academics, work, and personal time. |
|
Campus Support Resources |
• Center for Academic Success & Achievement (CASA) – Tutoring, study strategies, and academic support. Center for Academic Success and Achievement
|
Bear Tip: Managing stress takes practice—balance, rest, and support lead to lasting success!
Setting Your Goals
Why set goals?
Setting goals gives your college journey direction and purpose. Goals help you stay motivated, manage your time wisely, and track your progress.
When you set clear, realistic goals, you’re more likely to stay focused and achieve the results you want — in school, your career, and your personal life.
- A goal without a plan is just a wish.
Goal Setting Strategies
- Reflect on What You Want
Think about your values, priorities, and motivations. Your goals should align with your purpose and passions.
|
Reflection Question |
Your Response |
|
What do you want to achieve this semester? |
|
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What areas of your life (academic, personal, career) do you want to improve? |
|
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What motivates you most right now? |
|
- Break Big Goals into Small Steps
Big goals = small actions over time. Start small and be consistent.
|
Goal |
Steps You’ll Take |
Timeline |
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- Anticipate Challenges and Create Actionable Strategies
What might get in your way? Write them down.
What actionable strategies can you use to overcome challenges? Write them down.
|
Possible Challenges (example) |
Strategies to Overcome Challenges (example) |
|
I get overwhelmed by large assignments. |
Break tasks into smaller steps and use a daily planner. |
|
I procrastinate or lose focus. |
Use the Pomodoro Technique or schedule study breaks. |
|
I don’t understand the material. |
Visit tutoring or attend professor office hours. |
|
I work long hours and feel tired. |
Create a realistic study schedule around your shifts. |
|
I feel discouraged when I fall behind. |
Meet with a CASA Success Coach for support and motivation. |
Now you try:
|
Possible Challenges |
Strategies to Overcome Challenges |
|
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- Write Down and Track Your Goals
Keep your goals visible — in your phone, planner, or notebook. Revisit them weekly and note your progress.
Written goals = stronger commitment.
- Make Adjustments When Needed
Check in regularly. Adjust your goals if life changes. Don’t quit — refocus.
|
Challenge |
Adjustment |
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- Celebrate Your Progress
Recognize your wins — big or small. Reward your effort and keep building momentum!
Bear Tip: Progress comes from reflection, action, and flexibility. CASA Success Coaches can help you stay focused and reach your goals!
Online Educational Resources
Use online learning resources to increase your success.
You can learn anything and there are hundreds of online resources that can help you!
Khan Academy is one such resource. Khan Academy provides simple instructional videos that can help you learn more about a variety of subjects such as:
- Algebra
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Differential Equations
- Electrical Engineering
- Finance
- Geomoetry
- Grammar
- Microeconomics
- Macroeconomics
- Organic Chemistry
- Physics
- Precalculus
- Probability and Statistics
- Trigonometry
- World History
- US History
Contact Information
Center for Academic Success and Achievement (CASA)
Tyler Hall, Suite 117
1700 E. Cold Spring Lane
Baltimore, Maryland 21251
Phone: 443-885-3380
Email: CASA@morgan.edu
Contact Information
Center for Academic Success and Achievement (CASA)
Tyler Hall, Suite 117
1700 E. Cold Spring Lane
Baltimore, Maryland 21251
Phone: 443-885-3380
Email: CASA@morgan.edu


