How to Study

Retention
Test #1: Look at the number following this paragraph for 10 seconds.
Then cover the page and write down as much of it as you can
remember:
762049582049736
Score: If you remembered 12 or more digits in the correct order, 
give yourself an A; 8 to 11, a B; 7 or less, a C.
Chapter 1
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How to Start Out Right
7

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Test #2: Below are 12 nonsense words from a language I just made
up and their “definitions.” Study the list for 60 seconds and try to
remember each word, how it’s spelled, and its definition:
Berilly
excited
Narouf
bedpan
Simpoc
to cry
Mccusker
to dream
Delmak
old man
Yerbtry
salt
Triddle
to wade
Armulla
coffee cup
Gazdon
lion
Frabje
to skip
Cognit
spine
Eklek
lunch
Done? Close the book and write down each of the 12 words and its
definition. They do not need to be in the order in which they were
listed. 
Score: If you accurately listed nine or more words and definitions
(and that includes spelling my new words correctly), give yourself 
an A. If you listed from five to eight words and their definitions, or
correctly listed and spelled nine or more words but mixed up their
definitions, give yourself a B. If you were unable to remember at least
four words and their definitions, give yourself a C.
Time Management
Your effective use of available study time can be measured by two
yardsticks: (1) your ability to break down assignments into compo-
nent parts (e.g., reading, note taking, outlining, writing); and (2) your
ability to complete each task in an efficient manner.
Score: If you feel you use your time wisely and efficiently, give 
yourself an A. If you know there are times you simply run out of time,
give yourself a B. If you can’t tell time, give yourself a C.
How to Study
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Library Skills
Making the most of the library is a function of understanding its organ-
ization—and using it! The more time you spend there—studying,
reading, researching—the more productive you’ll be. You’ll become
adept at tracking down reference materials and finding the informa-
tion you need quickly.
Virtually all libraries follow the same organization— once you under-
stand it you’ll be “library literate,” no matter what library you use. 
In this book, you’ll discover what kinds of resources are available
(books, periodicals, directories, encyclopedias, dictionaries, magazines,
newspapers, documents, microfilm files) and learn how to find mate-
rials using the Dewey decimal and Library of Congress Systems as
well as the library’s computerized system.
To better evaluate your library skills, answer the following questions: