Make the most of Summer Term with 6 summer study tips
Badger summers bring sunshine, Terrace chairs and opportunities to take courses in person or online. Whether you’re getting ahead in your major, tackling a challenging subject or exploring something new, summer courses can be a smart move. But with a condensed schedule and warm-weather distractions, staying focused can be a challenge.
Here are some study tips to help you succeed.
Stay on top of quick-moving courses
With shorter sessions, summer courses move fast. That means each assignment, lecture and reading can carry more weight. Budget your time accordingly. Create a weekly schedule that includes class sessions, study blocks, assignment deadlines and even breaks to help you recharge.
Set clear goals and track your progress
Start by identifying what you want to achieve. Is your goal to improve your GPA? Build foundational knowledge for future courses? Satisfy a general education requirement? Write it down. Then break your coursework into smaller goals — weekly readings, quiz reviews or project milestones — and track your progress. Tools like Trello, Notion or a simple calendar can help you stay on target.
Create a summer-ready study environment
If you’re on campus, take advantage of the quiet spaces available during summer. Libraries, outdoor study areas and even shaded spots near Bascom Hill can make studying more enjoyable. Online students should create a dedicated workspace at home that’s free of distractions. A well-lit, organized area can boost focus and signal to your brain that it’s time to learn.
Stay connected with instructors and classmates
Summer courses are a great chance to build relationships with instructors and peers. Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions, participate in discussions or form study groups. For online students, that means engaging actively in forums or attending virtual office hours. Staying connected can make learning more interactive, rewarding — and fun.
Prioritize self-care and balance
Summer should still feel like summer. If you’re on campus, build in time to enjoy Madison’s lakes, the farmers’ market or a scoop of Babcock ice cream. No matter where you are – at home or studying abroad – breathe in some fresh air and spend time with family and friends.
Don’t forget to get enough sleep, stay hydrated and take breaks that refresh your mind.
RecWell has summer wellbeing offerings that might be just the ticket to providing balance and avoiding burnout. Check out their options in wellness coaching, wellbeing workshops, mindful meditation and massage.
Use campus resources – yes, they’re open!
Visit the Learning Support portal to find information on tutoring, study skills and study jams.
Undergraduate academic advisors are ready to engage with students using a variety of options — phone, video call or email. They’ll answer your questions about course selection and requirements or chat about other issues related to your life as a student.
Libraries continue to offer great resources, such as study spaces, computer labs and equipment checkout. Library staff can help you find what you need via the Ask a Librarian chat service, or you can even text a librarian at 608-729-7886. Access the library catalog anytime through the online search page.
The Writing Center is open for all your writing needs this Summer Term. Services are in-person and virtual and include individual instruction, workshops and writing groups.
Tech trouble? Visit the DoIt Help Desk and call, email or chat with expert digital problem-solvers online, or walk in for in-person help if you’re on campus.
Summer Term at UW–Madison is a powerful way to make progress toward your academic goals while enjoying everything the season has to offer. With a little bit of planning, some clear goals and a dose of self-care, you’ll be well on your way to a productive (and memorable) summer.
And don’t forget to share your summer story or your own study tips with #MyBadgerSummer on Instagram!
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