Study tips from the Online Learning team
Get more out of your printing budget
Each enrolled term, PCC students can print 100 double-sided pages. To get more out of your printing budget, consider printing multiple pages on a single sheet of paper.
Learn computer shortcuts to save time
Learning computer shortcuts can be helpful in quickly executing tasks on your computer without using your mouse. Learn more about computer shortcuts that are useful as a student.
Find your books and reading materials from the library
Sometimes the bookstore is on backorder or your book budget may be tight. In those cases, it’s helpful to check whether the PCC Library or your public county library has the book you need.
At PCC, your instructor may have put your book in Course Reserves. You can search for Course Reserves using your course code and number, instructor, or title. Books on Course Reserve are commonly found at PCC campuses. Common library systems in the Portland metro area include Libraries in Clackamas County, Multnomah Country Library, and Washington County Cooperative Library Services.
Try a new study space
Designating a study space in your home works for some people. For others, getting outside of your house is helpful. PCC campuses have many places you can study depending on the noise level you tolerate. If you desire a quiet space, book a PCC Library Study Room. Rooms can be reserved up to two weeks in advance. Studying at the library is also helpful when you have a break between two classes, but it’s not long enough to go home.
Reading strategies: review key takeaways first, then identify supporting details
If your assigned reading includes a “Key Takeaways” section (or something similar), review that first. Identify the specific information you should be looking for. Then, as you read, focus on the key points and summarize the context that supports or explains them.
Make organization “fun”
Once you have the syllabus for each class, take time to map out your term. If that feels overwhelming, try finding ways to make the process more enjoyable. You might create a digital version with a theme that matches your interests, turn the planning into a game, or organize while listening to music or watching a favorite movie. You could also make it visually appealing with color-coding or creative layouts. Whatever approach you choose, make it work for you.
Mnemonic devices
Do you need to memorize specific information for one of your classes? A mnemonic device can help! A mnemonic device is a memorization technique that helps create associations between what you need to remember and creative techniques such as acronyms, rhymes, pictures, songs, etc.
A common math mnemonic device is PEMDAS, Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally, which stands for:
- Parentheses
- Exponents
- Multiplication
- Division
- Addition
- Subtraction
Need more support?
Online success coaches offer personalized support to help you clarify and achieve your goals, reflect on your habits, and overcome challenges.