How to Find a Tutor For Math - Things to Know About a Tutor For Math

How to Find a Tutor For Math - Things to Know About a Tutor For MathWhen you are struggling with a problem or are having trouble understanding something, the easiest way to understand it is by a tutor for math. A tutor for math will be able to give you a much better education about math, and this will also help you develop more confidence in math.Math problems can be very confusing. If you take some time to learn the concepts, then you will understand why things are the way they are, and you will also have a good idea of what you need to do next. It is always better to be too late than too early.The other thing you should know is that the tutors for math are just regular teachers. So don't feel embarrassed if you have any questions about math, it is not really their job to answer those questions. However, they will be able to answer all of your questions and give you advice to help you become a better student. When they are able to understand what you need, then they will be able to help you develop your math skills.It is a great idea to find a math tutor that can cover a lot of subjects well. It is important to get a good knowledge of mathematics, because it is one of the important aspects of life. If you don't have a proper grasp of it, then you may never even realize what your life would be like without it. Just imagine the amount of money you would save!You will find that a math tutor is a lot different from the traditional education teacher. This means that they will be more of a friend and companion for you, rather than a regular teacher. They will understand that you want to learn more about math and will be able to guide you through it, teaching you new things as well.A tutor for math is not something that you will have to pay for. You will find that there are many tutors for math online, and you will find many tutors offering their services for free. So if you are in need of a tutor for math, there are many tutors online that you can choose from. Take the time to look at them all, and see which one fits your needs the best.When you finally find a tutor for math that you really like, you will find that you have a great tutor that will help you grow as a person and will be more confident in math. Now you will not have to deal with a problem on your own, and you will have a tutor for math to help you understand the subject. In the end, this will be the best investment that you will ever make.

The top problems introverts have in their career and how to fix them - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / The top problems introverts have in their career and how to fix them - Introvert Whisperer The top problems introverts have in their career and how to fix them Are you an introvert? Have you struggled with stepping into your career with a sense that you need to be more outgoing, strong-voiced and expressive? It can difficult to navigate the career journey from interview to holding the job, to going after that promotion, if we feel like our core essence which may be that of an introvert is not accepted, supported or desired. So what are the kinds of problems we may face as introverts in a largely extroverted world? Let’s start with what an introvert is An introvert receives their energy from alone time. Contrast this to an extrovert, who gets their energy from being with other people. An introvert recharges with taking space and resting, or doing something away from other people in order to get the energy we need to go out into the world again. Introverts also work best alone, and tend to solve problems by reflecting and going inward. When it comes to working environments that demand social interaction, teamwork, presentations, co-working spaces and lots of communication how can introverts stay true to their nature, whilst not getting lost in the crowd? Below are the common problems introverts face, as well as a different take on how to utilize the essential elements of introversion to turn these seeming ‘weaknesses’ into our strengths. Top Problems #1: Burning out by not taking space This is one of the biggest issues introverts will face; exhaustion from giving out too much energy without recharging in the way that we need. Extroverts are the ones who want to always go out for after-office drinks, or seek out company in lunch breaks, in order to get their energy boost from others. Introverts need to be careful here in knowing their energetic boundaries and figuring out ways in which to take the space to themselves mid-workday, and after work. This could be going to the bathroom simply for quiet space, walking outside and breathing in fresh air, finding a space to have your lunch by yourself, and being ok with saying no to the office social scene. If you feel that it is part of your role and would help to enhance your future prospects to network outside of the office, be sure that you have had ample alone time to feel able to go out at the end of the workday. #2: Anxiety about networking Meeting new people for an introvert can demand quite a lot of energy. This isn’t to say introverts are anti-social, but rather prefer more intimate meetings and communication in order to be present and not get overwhelmed. Networking experiences can be challenging, as they are often with many people in more of a cocktail-party style situation with mingling. The impact it may have on introvert’s career is that they may skip the networking events, and therefore, miss out of potential connection and opportunities. To feel more able to be in this networking space, introverts can use the following tools: Introduce yourself to one person at a time. Don’t worry about having to go up to a group and meeting multiple people at once. Find people who are on their own and approach them then. Start off with a simple “Hi, I’m… I don’t believe we’ve met yet..” If you’re having trouble approaching people, then be sure you are approachable. If you’re on your own and waiting for someone to introduce themselves, then be sure that your body language is open and that you are wearing an expression friendly enough that says ‘it’s safe to approach.’ Give yourself a quota of people you’ll talk to. This will help you to actually put in the effort to meet at least 3 people, and also give you some relief if you limit your number to a maximum amount for example, 6 people. It can help put your mind at ease to have attainable goals. Having more of a preference to speak one-to-one and in intimate settings can also be a strength for introverts in networking settings especially when you gel with others who appreciate this presence in communication too. #3: Talking too much due to nerves Most relevant in the context of interviews, meetings and networking environments. Some introverts can fall into the trap of feeling insecure about looking timid, that they overcompensate by talking way too much in hopes of trying to fill the space so there isn’t awkward silence. Though this can lead to awkward rambling, and can hurt your chances of landing the job, project, deal or just showing your true value as a worker. Instead, think about conversation as like a tennis match. They ask you a question, you ask them a question back and forth. They can then fill the space with words, and also feel heard and spacious to express what they wish to. So ask questions, be ok with waiting a few seconds for someone else to do the talking, and you’ll come across as calm and collected. #4: Not going for the leadership role (even though you want it) Many introverts may think that they’re not cut out for being leaders. Some may actually be wanting to step up, but refrain from doing so because of this very reason. This is a mistake, and a little bit of reframing can really help to show how introverts can be, by nature, great leaders. Leadership is about projecting mature self-confidence, taking control of difficult situations, and an ability to guide others through expressing, sharing and directing. Introverts can have a strong sense of who they are from all the time spent internalizing and reflecting. This can be a strong quality to then project out the character of who they are in a grounded way when they’re in front of an audience. Furthermore, leaders are often solitary figures when they guide, share, plan and express, which bodes well for those who like to work alone. Leaders can also have more freedom in how they work and share, without having to rely on a team-based way of working. Introverts are often more emphatic by nature, with more sensitive to energies and dynamics of social situations. For any leader and facilitator, it can be a great quality to draw from to feel into how people are responding and comprehending the situation. If you’re an introvert and think that perhaps you aren’t suited to leadership, rethink that. You could very well have the potential to be an extremely effective leader. The Takeaway? Don’t forget your strengths. Introverts are diligent, persistent and thoughtful people. They tend to spend time and energy working hard to solve difficult problems, and their sensitive nature can really help them to understand people more. Creative-based roles and leadership positions are great for introverts, though if you’re in any other type of position, know that you can honor what you need and take on some of these tips to work effectively and to enhance your strengths. Author Bio Natalie Fisher is best known for helping professionals land their dream jobs and achieve explosive salary growth (even with little experience) Get Started By Downloading her Free Guide: The Ultimate Situational Interview Q A Guide. Go to top Do you know what your next career step is?  Many people don’t. I want to help you accelerate your career by connecting you with your Free Instant Access to my eBook on how to construct your Career SMART Goals â€" that will help you put together your actions and keep you accountable. Get your copy now and start your action plan today! Brought to you by Dorothy Tannahill-Moran â€" dedicated to unleashing your professional potential. Introvert Whisperer

Where to Find Painting Classes in Edinburgh.

Where to Find Painting Classes in Edinburgh. Learn to Paint in the Capital of Scotland. ChaptersEdinburgh’s Art Classes.Why Take a Painting Class?Opportunities for Learning Painting in Edinburgh.Edinburgh, fortunately for you, is one of the great artistic cities of the UK. With some of the major museums and galleries in the country, a highly reputable school of art, and the largest art festival in the world, it is certainly one of the best places in the world to take art classes.It’s also one of the UK’s cities most welcoming for artists, with plenty of art students, painters, young artists, and professionals, all making use of the busy cultural scene and art education infrastructure. Sometimes it seems that there is an art center on every corner, an art show every week, and public photography or visual art exhibits everywhere you look. It is, indeed, a nice place to be if you are an artist.And then there are the festivals. It’s not for no reason that Edinburgh is known as the ‘Festival City’. During the summer, people come from all over the world to enjoy t he constant stream of different festivals â€" from the Edinburgh Art Festival, in which every art museum in the city hosts different events, to the Book Festival (the biggest in the world!), and the famous Edinburgh Fringe.This latter deserves a special mention â€" because it’s a collection of drama, comedy, spoken word, and visual art shows is unmatched across the world. Edinburgh really comes alive in August, when every drama and art student in the country â€" pretty much â€" descends on the city. There are professional companies, student work, and public art in all its different mediums. If there is a reason to study anything in Edinburgh, it’s this.Finding painting classes in Cardiff and painting workshops in Belfast!Get messy with a painting lesson! FernandoPainting Teacher 5.00 (8) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors EmmaPainting Teacher 5.00 (5) £75/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors DavidPainting Teacher 4.75 (4) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors NatashaPainting Teacher 5.00 (7) £37/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors StefaniaPainting Teacher 5.00 (4) £40/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors SakinaPainting Teacher 5.00 (1) £12/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors LorrenPainting Teacher 5.00 (2) £18/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors Off2themoonholliePainting Teacher £8/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsEdinburgh’s Art Classes.But enough about our love for Scotland’s beautiful capital. You’re here to learn about how you can learn to paint â€" in an art studio, in an art institute, or even in art galleries. And, of course, there is plenty on offer, with arts education programs running from the community painting club to degrees in the history of art, a Bachelor of Fine Arts, and arts degrees from one of the best art schools in the country.So, whether you are interested in developing your expressive potential, if you fancy doing a still life or two of the human figure or dabbling in watercolors, or if you want to study art history from da Vinci to impressionism, you’ll find something that floats your boat in Edinburgh.But first, let’s think about why you might want to learn painting in the first place.Find out where you can take painting classes in London.Why Take a Painting Class?Some people just love to paint and draw. They always have a sketchbook with them, they can’t talk about anything apart from art and design, and they love to show their artworks to anyone that would care to look.Yet, given the reasons why most people get into portraiture or the arts and crafts, or why they develop a passion for art, to begin with, is usually because they enjoy the process, they have a good natural technique, and they find the whole process incredibly relaxing and rewarding. So why would they want to go to a class?Well, the benefits of an art class or arts degree are the same as the benefits for any other recreational class. It develops your technical range, ex pands your knowledge of and passion for the arts, and introduces you to loads of different people with the same interests. If you continue practising your interest in the visual arts at home, great! â€" but you may find that you don’t develop much in your skill. You may just stick to your comfort zone and not have the push to explore new horizons.This is the thing really. Because whether it’s printmaking, ceramics, or digital media you are into, people always develop further when they have the competition and camaraderie of a class, and the guidance and experience of a teacher.But, it’s your call at the end of the day! And, if you do decide to take classes â€" whether adult classes or those for minors â€" you know where to find the one for you. Right here!Find painting classes across the UK and painting classes in London!Why not join a painting class today!Opportunities for Learning Painting in Edinburgh.So, what are the best options in town? Here we show you the best range of options, for everyone. So, whether you want a private art teacher to give critiques to your work or art workshops in which you can practice your technique with lots of different people, you’ll find something that suits you here.There are undergraduate and postgraduate art programs too â€" so if you are young and super-serious about your work, we won’t leave you out.Join a Painting Class at The Art Club EdinburghThe Art Club is an incredibly professional outfit based in Bonnington, just around the corner from the Royal Botanic Gardens. They run all sorts of different arts courses, lessons, and art camps, in which you can develop all sorts of your painting technique. They’ll help you to develop your creative process and introduce you to different art forms in their weekly classes.These classes â€" both kids art and adult art courses are available â€" run either weekly in the evenings over ten weeks or intensively over school holidays and breaks. The ones for kids include a trip to the zoo at which children can practice their sketching.For those absolutely committed to painting, there is the opportunity every year to join the Art Club in their annual ‘luxury art holiday’ â€" in either France or Morocco â€" whether you can paint in peace in a jaw-droppingly beautiful environment.Take Your Painting Skills Outside with Look and Draw WorkshopsIn all different locations across Edinburgh â€" from Abbeyhill to Dalry â€" Look and Draw run lots of different innovative painting workshops. ‘Drink and Draw’ is a fun alternative to painting, whilst life drawing is another perennially popular option.In terms of painting, there are options for regular weekly practice sessions, running from between five weeks and twelve weeks.   Studio art workshops, painting outside, and innovative art methods are all available from Look and Draw.Find painting classes in Leeds and painting lessons in Birmingham.Grab hold of your paintbrushes, guys!Find a Private Painting Tutor wi th SuperprofGroup art classes are all well and good. Yet, if you are more into the actual technique and learning of painting â€" rather than the boozing or social opportunities â€" you may well find yourself more suited to private painting tuition.Whilst it is often a little more expensive, the complete attention that a private tutor can give to your work is invaluable. Priceless, we might say. Because, an expert eye on your creations, a friendly and motivating guide for further development, and a dedicated space to be exposed to different opportunities is worth everything in the long term.Superprof is a great place to find a private painting tutor in Edinburgh. We host ten painting tutors across the city â€" art professionals offering all sorts of specific techniques and, always, dedicated attention to you.Once you are happy with the quality of your painting, why not try a different subject? We have over seven million tutors teaching over a thousand subjects across the world. There ’s no excuse not to keep learning!Study for a Bachelor of Arts in Painting at the Edinburgh College of ArtIf you are aiming for a professional career in painting or fine art, there’s really only one place to go in Edinburgh. That’s the Edinburgh College of Art, which doesn’t just have an incredible reputation for the artists it produces â€" but has a reputation for an incredible social life and the parties too.It provides great opportunities to exhibit your work too, with regular art shows of student works â€" which experts often take the time to attend.The BA in Painting is, of course, the course for you here. You’ll be painting full time in purpose-built studios, so you’ll have the time and space to explore and expand your talent. The rest of the time is spent with theory, with understanding and critiquing the practice to which you are committing.Or Learn about the History of Painting with the University of Edinburgh’s Master’s in Art History.If you’ve finished a practical arts degree, maybe a postgraduate course in art is for you. The University of Edinburgh offers a highly reputed MA in Art History, in which you will be studying, engaging with, and critiquing the art practices, theories, and works of the most famous artists in history.This is, of course, a research-based qualification â€" with a dissertation at the end. But if you are interested in the more cerebral, theoretical aspects of painting, then there is absolutely no reason why you wouldn’t love this course. There is an awful lot of opportunity to focus on the areas you most enjoy too.Find painting courses in Manchester and painting classes in Glasgow!

Why Study Data Science

Why Study Data Science The Why, How, and Where of Studying Data Science ChaptersThe Advantages of Learning Data ScienceThe Ways You Use Data Science EverydayAre Data Science and Data Analysis That Different?Studying Data Science OnlineStudying Data Science in the UK and Around the WorldLet’s face it: while learning data science sounds like an exciting proposition for data nerds the world over, the field still remains as alienating as it was at its inception. The word data science itself calls forth images of computing and solving complex algorithms or mind-numbing lectures. Quite frankly, we are living an interesting paradox, where data science is at once considered an exciting but unapproachable subject, due to its association with mathematics and computer science. AisvaryaData Analysis Teacher 5.00 (4) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AdeyemiData Analysis Teacher 5.00 (4) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AdenikeData Analysis Teacher 5.00 (4) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ThanushanData Analysis Teacher 5.0 0 (4) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors GokhanData Analysis Teacher 5.00 (4) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors OlawaleData Analysis Teacher £12/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AisvaranData Analysis Teacher 5.00 (4) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors Muhammad umairData Analysis Teacher 5.00 (2) £100/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsThe Advantages of Learning Data ScienceAt the heart of the matter, however, is the simple fact that data science now permeates every facet of our daily lives. The information gained form either learning more about the subject, or deciding to take up a career in it, can improve your grasp on what’s new in current affairs, technology, medicine, et cetera.At the base of data science, however, is a discipline that we’ve all become experts in â€" statistics. Analytical and critical thinking are skills that are required of us throughout our lives, and while statistics might be something that initially s ounds complicated, it’s actually quite simple. Statistics is the recording of information today to make decisions tomorrow â€" and this act is something we repeat everyday, multiple times a day.Some of the benefits of learning or mastering data science include:Job securityImproving your businessInnovative collaborationUnderstanding fiscal policiesWhile this list is definitely not exhaustive, it serves to underscore the importance of data science both as a profession and the role it plays in our daily lives.Data science can help you discover skills you didn't know you hadThe Ways You Use Data Science EverydayLearning more about the way statistics has evolved as a discipline and how its used today can greatly improve your life. While this can sound dubious at first, it’s an easier fact to accept once you interpret some facts for yourself.Statistics is a profession that effects our daily lives, from providing us with digestible financial data to helping get new medical drugs on the market. Statistics can also help you improve yourself on an individual level, providing the foundation for many health, fitness and financial apps.Today, statistics is used to collect passenger information in metros and train services to help improve your daily commutes, in universities to identify weak points in their scholarship systems, and grocery stores to ensure your favourite cereal is always in stock. The list can go on, but these main examples serve to highlight our dependency on the collection, storage and analysis of what is, in its core, information about ourselves.Some of the skills you can gain from learning about or perfecting the art of statistical analysis are:Improving business practicesMaking sounder financial decisionsForecasting trends in your economyManaging your own businessCommunication and analytical skills AisvaryaData Analysis Teacher 5.00 (4) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AdeyemiData Analysis Teacher 5.00 (4) £25/h1st lesson free!Disco ver all our tutors AdenikeData Analysis Teacher 5.00 (4) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors ThanushanData Analysis Teacher 5.00 (4) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors GokhanData Analysis Teacher 5.00 (4) £30/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors OlawaleData Analysis Teacher £12/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors AisvaranData Analysis Teacher 5.00 (4) £25/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutors Muhammad umairData Analysis Teacher 5.00 (2) £100/h1st lesson free!Discover all our tutorsAre Data Science and Data Analysis That Different?Now that we’ve covered why taking a data science course and statistics course is important to all of us, we have no excuse to go ahead and do so! Getting started can be frustrating â€" the amount of search results when typing in data science can be enough to intimidate even the most seasoned data scientist. However, the first part is understanding that data science and statistics are, while linked, separate discip lines.Computer science and statistical analysis are inextricably linked in the modern ageWhile this distinction might just seem like another attempt to deter you from entering the world of data, it can actually bring you more insight. To understand the difference between what data scientists and statisticians is a good way to start preparing you for your journey into data.Statistics is the mother of all subjects that are making headlines today: AI, data mining, machine learning, data engineering, and, of course, data science. Mentioned already is what statistics is, what that leaves room for is how it penetrates today’s schools and job markets. There are three main titles one can take on with a degree in statistics or a statistics-adjacent subject:Mathematical statisticianStatisticianData analystWhereas mathematical statisticians tend to stick to jobs in academia â€" namely, teaching or researching â€" statisticians and data analysts dominate professions in banks, government, and businesses. In other words, we’re everywhere!Data science, on the other hand, is the offspring of both statistics and computer science. That is to say, data science is like a statistician that is also deeply interested and a master in computer programming and engineering. Depending on what your title is as a data scientist, the degree to which you are a skilled statistician or not will vary. A general rule that seems to hold is that the more involved a data scientist is with the production of statistical software, the more they have to know about both statistics and computer science. Someone heading an IT department will, on the other hand, need to know less about statistics. The main titles data scientists take on are:Data engineerData scientistComputer scientist and engineerStudying Data Science OnlineClassroom settings aren’t for everyone, and this applies whether you’re exploring extra help on data science or looking to pursue a degree in data science. Thankfully, the web provides a number of interactive resources, from global institutes to online-only webinars, that help you in data science, applied statistics, and other interdisciplinary branches of data science.From data processing to predictive modelling, data analysis can be tricky. If you’re looking for a regular lecture setting, the best option for you is to find an a university that hosts lectures online on a large scale. While there is a vast array of universities that do this, if you’re looking to get a degree in data science and not just extra help, look for an accredited university that will engage your interests. Studying data online can have a competitive advantage, as many people who do this choose to also become part of the workforce at the same time, gaining skill in the field while studying it.Applying to these types of lectures should normally involve both paying a tuition and also the ability to receive a graduate certificate at the completion of your online program. Another a dvantage of studying under this framework means you will also get access to a vast network of alumni that can either help you find a job after graduating, or offer you advice about the job market. If you prefer to be taught at your own pace, and would like to tailor your program to you, taking a data science course online is something to research further.Statistical methods and processes have impacted humans throughout our existenceIf you’re not looking to receive a bachelors or masters in data science and simply want some extra help, webinars are an excellent example of how to use online courses to your advantage. Admission into these webinars depends only on whether they are free or require payment. Webinars span everything from exploratory analysis, statistical methods, analyzing data, r programming and data science strategies. The diversity in the subjects taught online can mean that you have access to advising in an area by qualified instructors or people who are also student s.If you would like to attend a webinar, the first things to evaluate are whether or not you are able to pay, what type of help you need, and what kind of qualifications you would like your instructor to have. If you simply need some online resources that provide raw data, explanations on data analysis tools and analytics tools like SPSS, R and Hadoop â€" stick to data science blogs and websites.Studying Data Science in the UK and Around the WorldIf you’re just starting to apply to data science and engineering programs, or yearning to spend a semester abroad, the good news is that data science programs can be found anywhere in the world. Deciding where to study can be difficult, as programs differ in global recognition, types of bachelors and masters they provide, and courses offered.If you’re looking for a four-year program in the UK, Europe, or everywhere in the world, your options are unlimited depending on what you would like to obtain as a specialization. Different institut ions offer different degrees of expertise in data science, AI, computer science and engineering, and business intelligence. The first problem you would need to solve on your applications and admissions journey is to decide what types of data you would like to be working with, and what kinds of quantitative analysis you would like to perform. This will help you decide best what type of program in data science you would like to be part of.The second step is to decide where you would like to study. If you’re a student who needs a scholarship in order to start studying, this can be the deciding factor when it comes to choosing a program. If you would like to become a researcher or attain a PhD, many schools will offer fellowship programs at the graduate level that provide you with both a scholarship and a monthly or yearly stipend for your studies. If that doesn’t sound like the right path for you, it is important to create an outline of the types of scholarships the programs you’ re looking at are offering, what type of limitations they have, and of course the deadlines.Studying data science can be complex, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun. Many universities offer opportunities to complete an internship through a partnership with established businesses, insight into how to get hired in the industry, or even opportunities to study abroad!

Percent word problems 1

Percent word problems 1 Percentage means per hundred. The symbol used to represent percentage is given by %. Percentage is one of the basic and important operations in mathematics. Percentages are used to solve different word problems. A percentage can be converted to a fraction and vice-versa. The whole quantity of any substance is the hundred percent (100%) of the whole substance. The part of the whole quantity can be used to find the percentage. This can be represented as: Percentage or a quantity = (part of the quantity/ whole quantity) x 100. Example 1: There are 55 cupcakes in Jennas birthday party. If 11 cupcakes of the total are remaining. How much percent was eaten at the party? Solution: The total number of cupcakes = 55. Number of cupcakes remaining = 11. Hence number of cupcakes eaten at the birthday party = 55 11 = 44. Percentage cupcakes eaten = (Number of cupcakes eaten / Total number) x 100. The percent of cupcakes eaten = 44 /55 * 100 = 4/5 x 100 = 4 x 20 = 80 %. Hence 80% of the total cupcakes were eaten. Question: Multiple choice question (Pick the correct option.) On a snow day 40% of kids were playing outside out of 120. How many were playing in the snow? a) 120 b) 24 c) 48 d) None of these. Correct answer: option c. Number of children = 120. The percentage of the number to be found = 40%. The 20% of 120 further gives: 120 x 40/100 = 120 x 2/5 = 24 x 2 = 48. Hence the answer is = 48.

Teach Yourself Italian

Teach Yourself Italian Learn Italian at Home ChaptersLearning Italian at Home: Five TipsFormal and Informal Language LearningPreparing for Italian LessonsLearning a foreign language: smashing idea!You've settled on Italian?Good choice! Dante's language is perhaps the easiest of all romance languages to learn.The vocabulary and the sheer richness of the language will seduce you, just as the art of living Italian would.How do you put all of that fire and enthusiasm into practical learning of the language before actually making your way to country to experience that fabled lifestyle?Superprof has got you covered!Read on for tips on how to master Italian quickly.Collins Dictionary is always ready to help with all of your language needs â€" even word translation.Word Reference is a dictionary page that includes a verb conjugation list in Italian, to help you learn them faster.With Learn Language, you can practice a variety of phrases in Italian, grouped by category.Be sure to take any or all of these guides with you as you head out on holiday, or carry them with you to study on the bus or tube.What About Grammar?Granted, Italian (and French and Spanish) grammar is a bit different than English grammar.Those three languages being romantic,  they share many of the same grammar rules. English, being Germanic, does not have the same characteristics.Here are three major differences between English and Italian grammar:gender assignment: each object is either masculine â€" il, or feminine â€" la.Suffixes: -zione is feminine; -mento is masculineword order: adjectives follow the noun â€" las cosas bellas, literally: the things beautifulverb tenses: only five in Italian, compared with sixteen in Englishbeyond the present, past, future, imperfect and conditional, nuance in Italian is expressed through auxiliary verb usage.See below the Top 100 of Italian verbs:EnglishItalian* = The translation of these verbs with only one word is very inadequate.acceptaccettareallowpermettereaskchiedere/domandarebelievecredereborrow* pren dere in prestitobreakromperebringportarebuycomprarecan/be ablepoterecancelcancellarechangecambiarecleanpulirecombpettinarecomplainlamentarsicoughtossirecountcontarecuttagliaredanceballaredrawdisegnaredrinkberedriveguidareeatmangiareexplainspiegarefallcaderefillrempirefindtrovarefinishfinirefit* far starefixaggiustareflyvolareforgetdimenticaregivedaregoandarehaveaverehearsentirehurt* fare del maleknowsapere/conoscerelearnimparareleavepartire/andarsenelistenascoltareliveviverelookguardareloseperderemake/dofareneed* aver bisognoopenaprireclose/shutchiudereorganizeorganizzarepaypagareplaygiocareputmettererainpioverereadleggerereplyrispondereruncorreresaydireseevederesellvenderesendspediresignfirmaresingcantaresitsedersisleepdormiresmokefumarespeakparlarespell* fare lo spellingspendspenderestandalzarsistart/begincominciarestudystudiaresucceed* avere successoswimnuotaretakeprenderetalkparlareteachinsegnaretelldirethinkpensaretranslatetradurretravelviaggiaretryprovareturn offspegnereturn o naccenderetype* scrivere al computerunderstandcapireuseusarewaitaspettarewake upsvegliarsiwantvolere/desiderarewatchguardareworklavorareworrypreoccuparsiwritescriverePutting it all TogetherYou learn Italian by eating Italian food. S. StrainOf course, learning to speak the language of Dante Alighieri is a bit more involved than gnawing on osso bucco or twirling pasta, but there is some merit to that  claim.If you wish to learn Italian, you should immerse yourself into the culture: listen to music, watch the movies, eat the food and talk to the people.That last, in particular, is a critical step in the language learning process.Once you have built up a bit of vocabulary, learned a few verb tenses and have practised word order, you should set about discovering the music of the language â€" its rhythm and flow.Here is where your Superprof tutor shines. Inasmuch as possible, you should speak Italian with your teacher, to practise tone and inflection.Your teacher would respond in Italian, a boost to your developing listening skills.You won't learn Italian by eating carpaccio, but it sure does taste good! Source: Pixabay Credit: JereskokAt the coffee barCaffè â€" an espressoCappuccino â€" a breakfast beverage  not to be ordered after lunch or dinner  Macchiato â€" an espresso “stained” with milk foamCaffè shakerato â€" an espresso coffee shot   shaken over ice forming a frothy summer treatCaffè corretto â€" an espresso “corrected” with a nip of liquor, often grappaGrappa â€" distillate produced from grape pomace, the leftovers from wine-makingCaffè americano â€" an espresso prepared in a cappuccino cup with hot water on the side of the cup not to be mistaken with…Un americano â€" an aperitivo of Campari, sweet vermouth, and club sodaCornetto â€" an Italian croissant pastry also referred to as a “brioche” in Northern ItalySucco di frutta â€" fruit juiceSpremuta d’arancia â€" fresh-squeezed orange juiceUn bicchiere d’acqua â€" a glass of waterAt t he pizzeriaPizza  â€" a flatbread, often circular in aspect, baked with or without toppingsMozzarella â€" cow’s milk cheese made by pulling or stretching the warm curdMozzarella di bufala â€" mozzarella cheese made with buffalo’s milkPomodoro fresco â€" fresh tomatoesSalsa di pomodoro â€" tomato sauceBasilico â€" basilOrigano â€" oreganoAcciughe â€" anchoviesCapperi â€" capersCipolle â€" onionsPeperonicni â€" red chilis, often dried and in flakesPeperoni â€" bell peppersSalame picante â€" pepperoni or spicy, cured sausageSalsiccia â€" sausage  Ananas â€" pineapple, an unacceptable Italian pizza toppingWurstel â€" hot dog, a passable Italian pizza toppingAt the gelateriaFiordilatte   â€" “the flower of milk,” theoretically made with the best part of the milk, meaning the creamPanna â€" cream made without egg yolkCrema â€" cream made with egg yolkCioccolato â€" chocolateCioccolato fondente â€" dark chocolateNocciola â€" hazelnutGianduja â€" chocolate hazelnutBacio â€" also cho colate hazelnut, but easier to pronounceStracciatella â€" chocolate chip, but with chocolate flakes rather than chocolate chunksFragola â€" strawberryLampone â€" raspberryMore â€" blackberryAt the paninoteca  Panino â€" an Italian sandwichPanini â€" more than one Italian sandwich. Panini is plural.At the salumeria  Prosciutto di Parma â€" salt-cured, air-dried ham, aged in or around Parma for months.Prosciutto San Daniele â€" salt-cured, air-dried ham from San Daniele in the Friuli region of Northeastern ItalySpeck â€" dry-cured, smoked ham from Northern ItalyCoppa (in Lombardy and Emilia Romagna) â€" a cured sausage made of pork shoulderCoppa (in central Italy) â€" a cured sausage made of pork headFinocchiona â€" fennel-flavoured cured pork sausageGuanciale â€" cured pork jowlPancetta â€" pork belly, cured but not smoked. It’s bacon with an Italian accent.Pancetta affumicata â€" smoked pancettaPorchetta â€" spit-roasted stuffed pigIngredients/dishes to look forBottarga â€" salt- cured fish roe often from Sardinia or SicilyBruscandoli â€" hop shootsFoccacia di Recco â€" a very thin flat bread filled with cheese. Arguably the most delicious thing you are likely to eat in Italy. Look for it in select parts of the Ligurian coast.Frico â€" fried cheese served in FriuliGranita â€" Sicilian shaved iceMascarpone â€" Italian cream cheese  Moeche â€" soft-shelled crabs from the Venetian lagoon‘nduja â€" spicy, spreadable pork sausage from CalabriaRicci di mare â€" sea urchins, served seasonally in Puglia and SicilyFunghi porcini â€" mushrooms with a big brown cap  Tartufo Nero â€" black truffle, found year-roundTartufo Bianco â€" white truffles, available late fall to early winterGood to knowColazione â€" breakfastPranzo â€" lunchCena â€" dinnerMerenda â€" snack, commonly acceptable only if you are under the age of tenPane â€" breadOlio extra Vergine di oliva â€" EVOOFormaggio â€" cheeseCarne â€" meatPesce â€" fishPollo â€" chickenMaiale â€" porkCinghiale â€" wild boarDi stagione â€" in seasonFuori stagione â€" out of seasonAndato a male â€" gone badVino â€" wineRosso/biano â€" red/whiteVino della casa â€" house wineVino della zona â€" wine produced nearbyIl conto â€" the checkCoperto â€" service charge, normally included in the checkCompreso â€" includedEscluso â€" excludedUn’altra grappa, per favore â€" another grappa, pleaseEven better to know  â€œConosco i miei polli.”Literally â€" I know my chicken. What it means â€" I know what I am talking about“Sei come il prezzemolo.”Literally â€" You are like parsley What it means â€" You pop up everywhere.“Non fare il salame.”Literally â€" Don’t act like salame. What it means â€" Don’t be a ham, you idiot.“Non tutte le ciambelle riescono col buco.”Literally â€" Not all donuts come out with a hole. What it means â€" Things don’t always turn out as expected.“Non puoi avere la botte piena e la moglie ubriaca.”Literally â€" You can’t have a full wine barrel and a drunk wife . What it means â€" You can’t have your cake and eat it too.Flash Cards and Vocabulary ListsYou have just completed a great Italian lesson online: you are on fire with the need to express yourself using your newly-learned words!Don't fall victim to the  como dire  (how to say it)  quandary: build vocabulary lists, or make flash cards.Too old-fashioned a solution to modern learning, you say?Not at all!Writing by hand has been proven to boost retention of learned material, even more so than typing data into a notebook or tablet.Writing will help you better retain:vocabularygrammar rulesspeech patternsphonetics of the languageOne additional suggestion: you should you study your flash cards before falling asleep. Your brain will efficiently file away all that you have learned for easier recall during future lessons.Formal and Informal Language LearningSuperprof knows that language learning â€" or, for that matter any learning should be fun and engaging.Let us now propose a few avenues of informal learning that will fan the flames of your desire to learn Italian between classes.There is no better way to immerse yourself in language learning than to surround yourself with Italian dialogue.Short of moving to Naples, the closest you could come to that effect while still at home in the UK is to watch Italian movies... without changing the soundtrack to English.Improve auickly with a by taking Italian courses London.An added benefit to such movies is that you will be exposed to Standard Italian; not any of its estimated thirty-four dialects.Here are a few titles to consider:La Vita è Bella â€" Life is Beautiful; a poignant classicIl Gattopardo â€" The Leopard; featuring an international castany of Nanni Moretti's films, such as: La Stanza de Figlio â€" the Son's Room; or Caro Diario (Dear Diary)Are you rather into television series?You might then binge on Gomorra, a series about Neopolitan mafia's competition with the Camorra family business.It launched in 2014 to cr itical and public acclaim, running for 2 series; a total of 24 episodes.It will be an education into authentic Italian mafia!If the mafia is indeed your thing...Cast about for Romanze Criminale, a 2008 story broadcast in 2 series, for a total of 12 episodes.It revolves around a Roman gang looking for their fortune.Luckily, we live in a time of ultimate connectivity, where a simple online search can reveal all of the Italian entertainment you could wish for.There is no longer any need to wait for a Foreign Film Festival to see the latest and greatest of what Italy has to offer!Italians are generally friendly and effusive Source: Pixabay Credit Yenni VanceSpeak Italian with ItaliansIn spite of all the Mafia-related television shows, people native to Italy tend to be a friendly bunch; open and appreciative of anyone who wants to learn anything authentically Old Country.With the number of Italian expats who now prefer Great Britain over Germany as their country of choice to settle in, y ou are more likely than ever to run into a newly arrived Napoli or Sicilian!Let us not greet them with typical British reserve.We should meet them with open minds and our developing language skills!You could surely approach any Italian expat, explain that you are learning their language and ask them to help you practice your speaking skills.You may have to ask them to slow down their speech.In their enthusiasm and joy at knowing your desire to perpetuate their culture by learning their language, they may embrace your efforts with verve and staccato speech.Staccato: another fine Italian import into the English language.In return for their helping you practice your language skills, you could help them find their way around town or maybe even get them familiar with British slang!Organise a Learning TripIf your peak of language learning coincides with your next holiday, why not do a Tour of Italy?Air fares to Rome, Milan, Naples and Pompeii are fairly low, especially as we approach the tourist off-season.You could hike the Appian Way, meeting like-minded folks from all over the country who want to enjoy this ancient military road, and who would most likely delight in exchanging culture and language with you.Or you could just stick to the cities.Whether sipping espresso or reflecting on architecture over a bruschetta, applying your language skills among native speakers, in authentic settings is sure to improve your fluency.Better than any language course could teach you, ordering from a menu and having conversation with new friends will help you build proficiency in lingua Italiano.Soon, you too will be able to order the most famous Italian dishes from all over the country!What About Cooking Italian Food?Our modern cooking style makes it easy to prepare spaghetti or chicken Alfredo for our evening meal.Opening up a tin or heating up a frozen meal does not an Italian chef make.Another fun, engaging way to learn Italian culture would be to take a cooking class.All ar ound the UK, you can find restaurants or cooking schools that offer classes in Italian cooking.How's that for a delicious way to learn Italian speaking: while making tiramisu?One last suggestion, for the novice learner and the advanced: read books in Italian!Reading in Italian gives you a means to absorb Italian phrases not found in textbooks and perhaps not used in any travel phrase book.Whether you read basic Italian or spent two years in Venice, reading (in any language) is a great way to exercise your brain, disconnect from the stress of everyday activity and treat yourself to language learning outside of any language courses.Snack on tiramisu you made in your cooking class while practising your Italian Source: Pixabay Credit: ThujaPreparing for Italian LessonsOf course, you could jump right into learning Italian: watch the movies, listen to music, read news articles...However, your studies would be much more focused if you had an idea of what depth and aspect of the Italian lan guage would best suit you.1. Conversational Italian would be great for holiday-makers or if you want to diversify your friendship circle.2. Italian grammar and vocabulary is a must if you are pursuing academic studies, or if you hope to move to Italy.You should also determine your language aptitude.Are you a beginner,  intermediate or advanced language learner?The lessons you subscribe to should match your ability.In order to determine how advanced your Italian learning is, you could take a test online  or take an Italian lessons near me.Setting the MoodYou've just enjoyed a great holiday in Italy and now wish to learn the language so that, when you go back next year, you can enjoy it more fully.It is quite common that, after a positive experience, one wishes to repeat it â€" only with more preparation, in order to get the most out of it.If all you can do is long for Sicily's sandy beaches, maybe you should tune in to Eiffel 65, a band whose leading member is from your dream destina tion.Could you learn Italian from their songs?And who doesn't know of Andrea Bocelli, the crossover artist who renders pop ballads as gracefully as he does  opera? His Italian pronunciation is absolutely one to aspire to!Think about singing, on your way to work or in the shower, in accompaniment with singer, songwriter and composer Paolo Conte; such a fun way to learn this romance language!Via Con Me, Un Gelato Al Limon, Come Di: all of these and more are online, just waiting for you to give them a listen.Studies show that engaging in diverse learning methods and having fun while learning increases the absorption of materials and provides more opportunity to practise recently reviewed materials.What are you waiting for? Andare! Go!Until Your Next Lesson...It might be a bit asinine to repeat what your parents and teachers have long been telling you: revise between lessons.That being the most effective way to retain vocab and grammatical constructions, we echo their edict.The Best Way s To MemoriseLabel everything around you When you start learning the  Italian language, the first vocabulary words you learn are focused on representing yourself and your surroundings. Make signs to mark the various appliances and pieces of furniture in your home. As you go about your day, these signs will remind you that you keep juice in “il firgorifero” and go to dream in “il letto“.You can apply this strategy to pictures as well. For example, you can print a picture of a person and label the various parts of their body in Italian, such as gamba (leg), testa (head), dito (finger) and orecchio (ear). This tactic works great because you learn to connect words with mental images.Learn words in the proper context Instead of only learning that correre means “to run,” you might find you retain the word better by learning it as part of a sentence. Create a plain sentence such as “I like to run.” or “Mi piace correre.”By learning the word in setting, you will remember the word and its meaning easier. As an added benefit, it allows you to exercise and learn other Italian vocabulary words at the same time.Practice with as many flashcards as possible Flashcards have long been a popular memorization technique because they’re a highly efficient way to learn new words. While you can use traditional writing flashcards, there are many flashcard apps you might like. Below are our three favorite flashcard applications.Create mnemonic devices of your own Mnemonic devices are another excellent way to memorize Italian thesaurus lists. Basically, you’re creating a familiar maxim or a short song to help you memorize something that would unless be difficult to remember. In other words, it’s all about association.For example, the Italian term for “to believe” is “credere“. The beginning of this word looks and sounds similar to the English word “creed”. Because a creed is set of beliefs, making this combination can boost your ability to remember “credere“.Write a short story in Italian When learning a list of Italian vocabulary expressions, create a narrative that links the words. It doesn’t matter how absurd your story is, as long as it creates a vivid image in your brain. If you don’t know a word in Italian, simply use the English word in its place for now.As your vocabulary increases, you can start translating the remaining words into Italian and making your story more complicated. For example, if you were studying animal names in Italian, your story might start with: “Il cane (the dog) chased un gatto (a cat) that was running after un topo (a mouse).”No matter which tactics you want to use, practising your vocabulary everyday is important for long term memory. In most cases, it is better to dedicate 15 minutes to practising Italian every day than to spend several hours once a week without studying what you’ve studied in between sessions.For good reason: for all of you who wish to throw yourselves into a n ew language, you cannot afford to go a single day without speaking  and listening to Italian.Movies, music, books and friends: all ways to steep yourself into your language lessons, until the next time that classes convene â€" or your tutoring resumes.Until then, we say Ciao, caro!

How to Excel in College While Employed in 11 Easy Steps

How to Excel in College While Employed in 11 Easy Steps ACT SAT Prep and College Admissions Blog Are you working and taking college classes at the same time? If so, you probably already know how challenging it can be. But don’t worry. Even with limited time, you can succeed at both school and work. In the next few minutes, you’re going to learn 11 easy steps to follow to help you draw the best out of yourself in both settings. Since you’re a busy student, I’m sure you don’t have any time to waste. So, let’s get started! Have a conversation with your boss. This first step might be the hardest for you depending on your relationship with your boss. Whatever the case may be, I can assure you that it’s important. Why? Picture this scenario. You’re at work watching the clock as the final minutes of your shift wind down. You have a test the next day. Your plan is to rush home, bang out a few hours of studying, then get a good night's sleep. Just as you’re about to leave, you run into your boss. He or she tells you that someone on the next shift called off and asks you to stay late to fill in. What do you do? It can be uncomfortable when you know you need to study, but don’t want to disappoint your boss. The best solution is to sit down and have a conversation about this as early as possible. Let your boss know that you’re taking classes. Tell him or her when you’re available to work, and when you’re not. Be polite, but assertive. Having a successful talk with your boss will ensure that you’re both on the same page about when you can reasonably work. The trick is to pick a time when your boss isn’t too busy to sit down with you for a few minutes. Set goals. Success always starts in one placeâ€"goal setting. Time management is no exception. Clarifying what you want to achieve will help you make vital decisions about how to spend your limited time. There are many ways to set goals. The method I most recommend to students is the SMART method. Researchers at the University of Western Florida did a studyon student achievement outcomes with and without using SMART goals. In 2010, they gave students in their business classes a team project and didn’t require them to use SMART goals. A year later they assigned their classes the same project. This time they required students to set SMART goals. They found that the students who used SMART goals completed the project faster, did a better job, and reported feeling more satisfied with their work. Goals should be SMARTâ€"specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely. When you’re done reading this, set aside at least a few minutes to think about your goals. Whenever you must pick between multiple ways to spend your time, ask which choice will bring you closer to achieving your goals, then get started! It is usually a good idea to get into the habit of settingbudget goals while you're in college as well. OneClass has created a free and uncomplicated step-by-step college budget template to help you create and meet goals for every month, semester, and year. Be strategic with your vacation/personal days. If possible, request days off from work during midterms, finals, and other busy points in your semester. Yesâ€"kitesurfing in Maui (if that’s what you’re into) would be more fun than studying on your vacation days. But you’ll never have to worry about running out of time, pulling an all-nighter, and going into your test feeling (and looking) like a zombie. By giving yourself more time to study, you can expect to score higher and have less stress. Plan and anticipate setbacks. Napoleon Bonaparteâ€"the infamous 19th century Emperor of the Frenchâ€"once said “A leader has the right to be beaten, but never the right to be surprised.” Now, even if you don’t serve in a leadership position (club president, etc.), I would argue you’re a leader anywayâ€"every day you must lead yourself closer to your goals. Therefore, you can’t let yourself get blindsided by your workload. Planning is one of the best habits you can form for success. Brian Tracyâ€"New York Times Best-Selling author of the time management classic Eat That Frogâ€"says that “every minute spent in planning saves as many as ten minutes in execution (source).” This rule predicts that just 6 minutes of planning at the start of your day can save you an hour. To take it to the next level, you must also learn to anticipate challenges before they occur. A great start is to mark when all exams, quizzes, and major assignments are due on your calendar. Do you see any cases in which you have multiple deadlines in the same week? Not spotting busy weeks like these in advance so you can plan accordingly can result in massive pile-ups. The trick is to first spot these weeks ahead of time and start your work early. Anticipating challenges is also valuable to do nightly. A simple and effective method you can start using right away is calledmental rehearsal. Mental rehearsal is a form of visualization in which you imagine yourself performing well at any undertaking you choose. How do we know this is effective? Dr. Biasiotto led a studyon visualization at the University of Chicago. The researchers divided basketball players into three groups: a group that practiced shooting free throws, a group that visualized themselves making free throws, and a group that neither practiced or visualized themselves making free throws. After 30 days, the group who only visualized themselves making free throws showed almost the same amount of improvement as the group who had practiced them! Every night, a great habit to form is to take 5 minutes to stop and review your goals for the next day. Plan, then sit back and ask what could go wrong. Visualize yourself going through the day accomplishing everything you need to. See yourself overcoming any obstacles that arise. Noâ€"this doesn’t guarantee everything will run smoothly. But the potential returns far exceed the minimal time investment. Determine how much time you need. Figuring out how much time you need to study per week is crucial, so you can plan your study schedule around your work schedule. This can seem a little daunting at first if you’ve never done it before. Here’s a great rule of thumb: for every 1 hour of class time, plan to study for at least 2 hours outside of class. In other words, determine how many hours of class you have each week, and multiply this number by 2. This gives you an approximation of how many hours per week to block off for studying. Now, keep in mindâ€"this is only a rule of thumb. As your semester progresses, you might find that you don’t need this much time to study, or that you need more time. While it’s tough to get your estimate exactly right, establishing a baseline is still beneficial. Use it as a starting point, then adjust from there. Make a to-do list and prioritize. If you don’t already make a daily to-do list, you owe it to yourself to start now. Keeping track of your objectives somewhere outside of your head frees up brain power for more important tasks. After all, I’m sure as a college student you have enough stuff to cram into your head already. Why try to juggle more than you have to? If you go down your list and think carefully about each item, I’m sure you’ll find that not everything is equally important. On an ideal day, you’ll finish everything on your list. But most swamped students know that ideal days rarely happen. So, if you can’t finish everything on a given day, at least make sure to finish the most important tasks. A great way to prioritize is to review your to-do list and ask yourself these 3 questions: What’s due next? What’s worth the most points? What do I least want to do today? Answering the first two questions will help you focus on what will impact your grades the most. The third question is crucial because the tasks we procrastinate on the most are often also the most beneficial. Utilize time windows. What if I told you there was a time management strategy you could use to gain back more than a full day’s worth of time over the next 3 months? What if I told you that this is true, and that it barely requires any extra work on your part? If you’re at least somewhat skeptical, I can’t say I blame you. Let me explain. Right now, ask yourself if you could make just an extra 20 minutes a day to study. If you were to do this 6 days a week for the next 3 months, all the extra 20-minute sessions would add up to over 24 hours of study time. I encourage you to do the math for yourself if you’re still not convinced. These short time periods that open throughout the day are time windows.While you probably won’t get much done in any single 15 - 30-minute time window, they add up. This is especially important to understand when you’re working and taking classes, because blocking off a few hours of uninterrupted study time can be a challenge. Here are some great times to try to squeeze in an extra 15 - 30 minutes of studying: First thing in the morning Before bed After a meal Between classes During a break at work When you get to class early While riding public transportation Never underestimate the power of how studying in short intervals adds up over time! Study incrementally. Trying to cram in all your studying right before a test is like leaving your house for an appointment at the last minute. If you hit all the green lights, find a parking spot right away, then sprint in, you just might make it on time. But just because this works every now and then doesn’t mean it’s a strategy to rely on. When you cram, you’re gambling with your grades and causing unnecessary stress. As a working college student, you can’t count on having a whole afternoon or evening free to cram. You’re going to have to break your studying up into smaller pieces. Try to review daily whether you have a test coming up or notâ€"at least a little bit. Best-selling author, blogger, and Georgetown professor Cal Newport wrote an article on how to conquer crammingin which he talks about what he calls the Same Day Rule. The Same Day Rule is simply this: “For every medium to large size assignment, do some work toward its completion the same day that it’s assigned.” This is an excellent rule to adopt for college students with jobs. Maximize your focus. When you’re working, your study time is already limited. You can’t afford to blow the time you do have by getting distracted. One major source of distraction is technology. Don’t get me wrongâ€" I love social media and web surfing as much as the next person. But when the pedal hits the floor and your to-do gets insane, it’s time to unplug from everything unrelated to what’s at hand. Author, programmer, and entrepreneur Scott H. Young said this in his article 20 Tips to Survive When You’ve Overloaded Your Schedule: “In an overload, connectivity becomes less important than productivity, so turn off anything that distracts you from work.” Fortunately, there are several free tools that can help you out. There’s an extension for the Chrome web browser called StayFocusedthat lets you temporarily block access to distracting websites. For Firefox users, Leechblockdoes virtually the same thing. Another awesome tool is the OFFTIMEapp for iPhone and Android. OFFTIME lets you block calls, texts, notifications, and other apps so you can focus on your school work. Another trick for improving your focus fast is what I call tally tracking. Here’s how it works. First, bring an index card or sticky note with you to your next study session. Set a timer for however long you plan to study before you take a break. Then while you study, mark a tally down on the sticky note/index card every time your mind wanders, or you get distracted. After the timer goes off, count your tallies and mark down the total. That’s your score for the session. Don’t worry about what your score is. You just want to figure out where you’re at so that you can track your improvement over time. In future study sessions, your goal is to get a lower score, meaning you got distracted fewer times. It’s not an exact science, but it’s effective. By continually challenging yourself to do better, you’ll get a lot more done. Limit your social life as needed. Let me start by saying thisâ€"my best memories from undergrad come from times I spent with close friends. I highly encourage you to spend as much time as you can with friends in college. However, it’s wise to temporarilylimit your social life when you have a test or major assignment coming up. This is a great rule of thumb for all college studentsâ€"but it’s especially vital for those with jobs. Unfortunately, when you’re working and taking classes, you’re going to have less free time than many of your peers. It’s inevitable that sometimes you’ll be studying while they’re doing something fun. I experienced this a lot myself, so believe me when I say I know how frustrating it is. No one wants to miss out on a good time or feel like they’re out of the loop. But if you want to achieve your goals badly enough, you’ll see that sometimes you must make the short-term sacrifice. Track your progress. Working and taking classes can be exhausting. Some days after a demanding shift, the last thing in the world you’ll feel like doing is hitting the books. How do you stay motivated when you don’t feel like doing anything or find yourself in a slump? One of the best things you can do is to keep track of your accomplishments day-to-day. Often, we get so busy in the shuffle of life that we fail to give ourselves enough credit for our achievements. By tracking your progress towards your goals, you’ll feel more motivated to keep going when the going gets tough. Comedian and actor Jerry Seinfeld told Gina Trapaniâ€"founder of Lifehacker.comâ€"in a conversation on productivitythat he tracks his work using a big wall calendar with every day on one page. Seinfeld marks a red X on his calendar for each day that he works on his craft. After a few days in a row, a streak starts to form. Seinfeld says, “Your only job next is to not break the chain.” Whether you try this method out or not, the takeaway here that finding your own way to track your accomplishments has big rewards. By doing this, you’ll keep yourself focused and motivated, and will never lose your momentum. What’s Next? Congratulations for taking a step towards getting better at time management by reading this article! Keep pushing yourself at everything you do. Give both your studies and your work 100% even when you don’t feel like it. Before long, you’ll adapt. Now that you’ve read these 11 steps, what did you learn that you can put into action? About the Author Parker Smith is the founder of Test Prep Champions--a website that provides test taking, study skills, and time management advice to students at all levels to help them reach their academic goals. This is done through an online archive of research-based articles, videos, books, courses, and more. Smith is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh and is now a student at the University of Pennsylvania. Test Prep Champions is currently offering a freeone week-long email course on time management. Each day for 7 days, you’ll receive a quick but high-impact lesson on a key time management success skill. You’ll have the option to check in with the founder of Test Prep Champions, Parker, after every lesson to ensure you’re making progress. If you're interested in learning more, here’s the link to register for the free email course: https://www.testprepchampions.com/time-management-email-course. Thank you!