Be sure to review your notes after each class. If you don't understand something, ask the teacher at the next class meeting while it is still fresh in your mind.
Read the assigned material before you go to class. The lectures will make a lot more sense to you, and it will be easier to take notes. Even if you just skim the material you will benefit.
Read the book again when you are studying for a test - or at least review underlined portions and sections you didn't understand the first time.
Read the book. You may think your notes will tell you everything you need to know, but usually they won't.
As you review your notes and the textbook, try to make up (and answer) questions about the material. If the instructor has given you study questions use those as guidelines.
Memorizing may help you answer some questions, but it's a lot of work. Understanding information is usually easier and more beneficial in the long run. For example, memorizing the answers to a set of study questions won't help much if the teacher changes the question on the test. If you use the study questions to identify areas to study and understand, you should be able to answer related questions as well.
Always write things in your own words.
Review homework assignments and work problems (if there are any).
When preparing for a final exam, review the tests as well.
How to Answer Questions on a Test
Be thorough, but brief. Shorter is usually better.
Base the length of your answer on the value of the question. A twenty-point discussion question requires more thought and more writing than a five-point "short answer" question.
Be organized and precise. Answer the question that is asked. Don't write down everything you know about the general subject and expect the teacher to construct the answer for you. I reserve the right to deduct points if you add extra information. In addition, it takes more time and you may be rushed at the end of the test.
If the question asks you to compare two concepts, or compare and contrast, don't just give two side-by-side definitions and expect the instructor to draw the comparisons. To answer questions of this sort, begin by giving a brief definition of each concept; then point out several similarities; then tell ways they are different.
Don't expect to be able to memorize everything. Education is supposed to teach you how to analyze problems in addition to learning facts. The better you understand the issues, the more successful you will be at analysis.