If you look around in your class, there are always a few students doing well in every course. What can you do to be like them?

Simply put: Just do what they do!

Smart students have well-patterned study skills, starting from lectures to exams.  Here are the top 10 tips on how to be the smart one in lectures – getting the most out of classroom time.

Tip # 1: Come prepared – preview the chapter first before going into the lecture, this is the main difference between A’s and B’s.

Tip #2: Keep the questioning mind – as you preview the chapter, come up with a list of questions. Try to find answers to those questions during lectures. Also write down any questions you have on the instructor’s lecture as it goes.

Tip #3: Write your lecture notes after – Take brief notes during lectures and complete them soon after class when it’s still fresh in memory.

Tip #4: Make a master list of questions – Try to find answers to those questions during lectures and reading.

Tip #5: Make a master list of keywords – The understanding of key concepts and their inter-relationship will give you the true mastery of that chapter. Use flash cards for them too.

Tip #6: Sit in the front of the class – This will keep you focus better and engage more. It is what smart students do.

Tip #7: Ask questions in lecture – Don’t be afraid to raise your hand. The more you ask the smarter you get.

Tip #8: Observe the instructor for exam clues – Mark down the important concepts as hinted by your instructor. Pay attention and you will know.

Tip #9: Avoid being a lecture skipper – Don’t ever skip the lecture. This is a recipe for failure. Also don’t bother to record the lecture in tape or MP3. Knowing you are going to re-listen to the lecture gives you an excuse not to listen carefully.

Tip #10: Get noticed by your instructor -  Come early and stay behind to ask questions and help out the instructor. Let him or her know your name. Take advantage of office hours. When it comes to assigning your grade, it really helps.

Whether you are taking high school basic chemistry, general chemistry or college physics or even preparing for MCAT physics, MCAT Chemistry, MCAT Biology, or biology online courses, these study tips will give you a competitive edge over other students. Get the maximum help you need from your instructor in class (chemistry help, biology help, physics help or whatever courses you are taking).

Be smart, do what the smarties do!