According to a study by Joan Carver, an educational researcher and expert on helping students improve their high school study skills, the best study plan is the following:

  1. Simple. A good plan is uncomplicated.
  2. Specific. A good plan states what you're going to do and where, when, and how you're going to do it.
  3. Positive. A good plan states what you're going to do (not what you're going to stop doing).
  4. Repetitive. A good plan includes something you can repeat frequently.
  5. Independent. A good plan is based on you doing the work; it doesn't depend on somebody else.
  6. Immediate. A good plan can be started soon, usually within twenty-four hours.
  7. Committed. A good plan includes I will statements.
Write down your study plan. Why? Because when you write something, you're more likely to do it.

Here's an Example

This is a study plan for completing an assigned reading. Does it include the seven traits listed above?

I will read at least ten pages of Animal Farm between four and five every afternoon until I’ve finished the book. I'll read in my bedroom where it's quiet and there are fewer distractions. After I finish every page, I'll pause to ask myself what happened in the story. I'll answer out loud to help me remember.

Now It's Your Turn

Create a study plan for one of your assignments.
  • Write down your plan.
  • Make sure it includes Joan Carver's seven steps.
  • Check it over.
Don't underestimate the power of making plans. Remember: if you fail to plan, you plan to fail.