Most college students look forward to a satisfying academic experience that will eventually lead to a rewarding occupation and fulfilling lifestyle. Often college students anticipate more study and academic adjustment problems than actually occur. In contrast, there may be some study behaviors that need prompt attention if satisfactory progress is to be maintained. For other students outlining, theme and research paper writing, and spelling words correctly are especially troublesome. In many instances, time management is the number one problem area for students because a proper balance has not been achieved among study, leisure, and personal activities.
Inadequate time budgeting frequently leads to academic probation or disqualification.
The imbalance often results in turning assignments in late or not at all, missing class, or simply going to class unprepared. In addition to basic study skills difficulties, academic adjustment problems which are more personal in nature may be issues. Individuals who enjoy studying and deem it wise to continue in college find courses interesting, purposeful, meaningful and related to their career goals. For these students educational goals and life goals are well-established and have purpose. Typically, these students enter the study situation with a readiness to learn and with an alert, active attitude that facilitates concentration and learning.