Seton Home Study School Study Skills Online

	Lesson 9 - Study Aids

Here is a list of some common study aids:     

• TEXTBOOKS - Most textbooks have wonderful helps in them besides the written text material. Look for pictures, charts, diagrams, maps, words in dark or italicized print, outlines, footnotes, glossary, index, table of contents, bibliography, end-of-chapter summaries or exercises. Sometimes looking these over even BEFORE you start reading the chapter will help.

• DICTIONARY - The dictionary is so vitally important for looking up definitions or spelling that it can be said that if you don't have a dictionary on or next to your desk, you are simply not a serious student.  The dictionary can give you all kinds of information. Be sure to read the introduction in the dictionary to see just how much you can learn from it.

• THESAURUS - The thesaurus contains synonyms and antonyms. When you are writing a book report, a research report, a paragraph, an essay, a poem, or just about anything else, the thesaurus is important so you are not using the same words over and over again.

• ENCYCLOPEDIA and INTERNET - An encyclopedia is a wonderful resource to help you in your studies. If you don't understand something in your textbook, or if you would like to learn more about it, look in an encyclopedia. If you don't have an encyclopedia, try to buy a used one. There are several encyclopedias on the internet, as well as information which can be found on the Search Engine. Use the internet only with your parents’ permission.

• COMPUTER - Using a computer or word processor to do your work will almost guarantee higher grades. With a computer, corrections can be made quickly and easily. Consequently, reports and papers done on a computer are almost always of better quality. Using a computer is almost essential for high school work.

• A LAPTOP COMPUTER AND A SMART PHONE - can be of help also.

• TELEVISION AND RADIO - These media often have regular news or science programs which can help you in your studies. Try to find out when good educational programs are scheduled.

• NEWSPAPERS AND MAGAZINES - Reading newspapers and magazines offer a great deal of information which can be helpful in your studies and research reports. The Reader's Guide to Periodical Literature and the Essay and General Literature Index may be of some help; check it out online or at a college library.

Schedule an evening at the local public library and another evening at the local college library to study the books in the reference section. You will be amazed how much information you can obtain from these books. You can find maps, historical atlases, almanacs, handbooks, biographical dictionaries, directories, and so much more.

Don't forget the library pamphlet file, as well as audio and video CDs and DVDs, and the latest in similar technology.

            Next: Lesson 10.