While math and English are important subjects for students to master, many of those heading back to school this fall may find the skill they really need to learn is juggling.

After all, between classes, studying and a social life, getting through the average semester can seem like navigating your way around a three-ring circus.

Fortunately, there are ways to make the grade and manage to squeeze in some recreation. The key, according to the experts, is effective time management.

“Students have to actively take control of the 168 hours at their disposal each week to make every minute count,” says Dr. Janet Eddy, Director of the University of Southern California’s Department of Learning Services. “To be successful at studying, you need to plan for it the same way you would plan a party or other social outing.”

Eddy encourages a holistic approach to time management that includes making a weekly schedule of priority items-- such as sleeping, eating, exercise, classes and studying -- as well as leisure activities.

To make the most of each study session, go to a library, dorm room or other area where you are comfortable and won’t be bothered by distractions.

“Use an answering machine to screen calls so you won’t be tempted to chat with friends instead of preparing for an exam,” says Eddy.

An answering machine such as CASIO PHONEMATE’s Model TC-540 not only takes messages and screens calls, but also makes sure messages are not lost or forgotten by roommates or other household members.

Featuring all-digital technology for increased reliability, the TC-540’s three individual mailboxes let callers leave private messages for specific household members.

For example, the outgoing message on the main mailbox might say, “Hi, this is Michael, I’m in class now but please leave a message and I’ll call you back. If you’re calling for Ted, press *2. To find out about our next study group meeting, press *3.” Callers that press the designated numbers would then hear personalized outgoing messages.

The TC-540 even serves as a “message file” by letting users forward messages from one mailbox to another for future reference. The unit’s 25-channel cordless telephone provides the mobility to retrieve your textbook from across the hall while discussing homework with a classmate.

Whether you’re preparing for a final exam or a weekly quiz, these tips from CASIO PHONEMATE and learning experts will help you make the most of study time:

• Rather than studying for one long period of time, block out several shorter periods and take a brief break every hour.

• Assign a specific subject to each hour of study time.

• Try to study when you are most alert, especially difficult subjects.

• Keep a pad of paper handy to jot down extraneous thoughts and clear your mind for the task at hand.

• Repeat information you want to memorize by saying it out loud and writing it down. Keep in mind that we take in information through our senses.

• Do what your mother always told you to do at the dinner table and sit up straight. Not only will it give you better posture, it will help you concentrate and process information better.

• Once you have developed a schedule that works for you, stick to it.

Finally, don’t forget to schedule in some fun and relaxation. After all, once your school years are finally over and done with, the work really begins.

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