How to study

Jan Mandel

Several times during the semester, review all from the beginning of the semester just like a comprehensive exam was to be tomorrow.

To study a section from the book,

• Write condensed notes - very carefully and legibly in small letters, one line per definition, theorem, etc. Eventually the whole semester should fit on one or two pages at the very most.
• Put your notes away. Open the book at the problem pages to the section and solve all problems that have the solution in the back. DO NOT look up anything in the book. If you get stalled on a problem, after one minute of trying you may look at your notes and PUT YOUR NOTES AWAY AGAIN.
• If you must look in the book, throw away your notes, they were not good enough, and start all over.
• After you have solved all problems with occasional use of the notes, put your notes away and work all problems again, WITHOUT THE USE OF ANY BOOK OR NOTES. If you cannot do it,
  • look up what you need
  • throw away all solutions done so far
  • start solving all problems in the section again
  You will find that in every pass it will get easier and easier. Do not stop until you can solve all problems without having to look up anything.

If at all possible, study in a group. The best way to learn is to explain to someone else.