Make Summer Courses Work for You – Without Missing Summer!
Whether you’re jumping into Term 2 or wrapping up a full summer course, one thing’s clear: six weeks fly by. Before you know it, you’ll be reading your September syllabi!
Top Study Strategies for Short Summer Courses
Stick to Your Plan
A study schedule isn’t just helpful—it’s essential in a condensed course. Block off time for class, review, and assignments like appointments you can’t miss.
Pro tip: Book a study room somewhere so it does feel like an appointment. Whether in the MacOdrum Library or a public library, having a space for just school work is best!
Work Smarter, Not Longer
Break study sessions into 25–30 minute focus blocks with short breaks in between (Pomodoro style!). Use tools like Gizmo, Quizlet, Anki, or Notion to keep info organized and review on the go.
Review Often— Don’t cram
A little review every day beats an all-nighter. Complete practice problems, draw diagrams, or quick daily recaps to reinforce learning. It’s called Spaced Retrieval!
Leverage Your Environment
Keep distractions low and light high. Whether you’re inside or out on a patio, make sure your study spot helps you focus (refer back to Pro Tip above!).
Balance is Key
Schedule breaks to get outside, move, or relax. Productivity and rest go hand in hand.
Check out the Study Module on PMC’s Learning Strategies course in Brightspace (search for the course via the “Discover” search and “Enroll now”) for an example and templates of study planners.
Make your study time count—so you can enjoy your summer guilt-free.