Hints For Success

1. Read the book. Read it before class, then again before attempting the homework, and again after doing the problems. When you read the book do it slowly and carefully, with pencil in hand. Pay careful attention to the definitions and examples. Omit the proofs on a first reading.
   
   
2. Come to class. Don't be afraid to ask questions (there is no such thing as a stupid question). If you don't get all of you questions answered in class, come to my office.
   
   
3. Do lots of problems. Don't give up too soon nor fail to return later to those you could not do the first time.
   
   
4. Work together. This is an excellent way to learn. But remember to do some problems first so that you can contribute to the discussion.
   
   
5. See me, but before you are lost. (This doctor prefers preventative medicine to running an emergency room.)
   
   
6. Complain.
   
   
7. Before a test the best thing to do is to outline the material, make sure you understand the basic concepts and theorems, do the review problems, and go to bed early.
   
   
8. Work at least ten (yes, 10!) hours per week outside of class on this course.
   
   
9. Do not sell your textbook. This is false economy. Keep it for reference.
   
   
10. Learn to take notes by ear.

The URL of this file is http://ernie.bgsu.edu/~vrickey/math311/hints-for-success.html