Ignore study tips at your peril

Another Labor Day weekend has come and gone.  According to the law school's Academic Success Program, I broke every rule in the book for studying on a three-day weekend. Here's what the program  says about long weekends and holidays:

"Tackle your most onerous study task as early as possible this weekend.  That way, it won't hang over you during the long weekend and add to your stress.  Also consider tackling your hardest study tasks when you are most alert.  Your brain will absorb material more easily for greater understanding and retention.  Consequently, you will feel better about your study session and lower your stress."

Although I failed to follow this good advice (we went on a camping trip that started Friday, so I couldn't really study until Sunday and Monday), I generally pay close attention to the tips coming out of the ASP office and its director, a veteran attorney who did very well in law school. Here's another sample of advice that the program offers about taking effective notes in law school.