Grab your books and your pencils because it’s time to jump back into the action. You have won last semester’s battle, but the war is not over yet cadet. At ease, you will embark on your journey more easily if you take on better studying habits this semester.

It’s clear college is one of the greatest wars we’ve all had to fight in. Homework begins to pile into mountains and exams are coming at you as fast as bullets. But don’t give up now; victory is just within your reach.

A study done by California State University Fullerton found effective studying is the one element guaranteed to produce good grades. It only takes a few simple steps to make sure you’re using your study time effectively.

Studying the same subject at the same time, in the same place each day automatically gets you into the subject groove each time you study. Your brain is then trained to think on a time cue. The CSU Fullerton study stated this could help save time and get you to remember more of what you’re studying.

Don’t over-work yourself soldier. You learn best in short takes so don’t spend more than an hour studying at a time. This tactic will ensure your time is well spent on learning your course material.

Your atmosphere can be very distracting, with the shouts from nearby soldiers in the corner of the library, so try to stay focused on your objective. Take the time to scope out your map and find a quiet spot to study in.

Take frequent breaks when you need them in order to eliminate wasting your time on what the Fullerton study calls “clock-watching” or anticipating your break. But don’t rest for too long, you may be blindsided by a sneak attack and not realize how much time you’ve wasted.

Eating right is equally important. According to a study done by Health magazine, there are a number of foods that can help your memory. These foods include fish, oil-based salad dressing, dark-green leafy vegetables, avocado, sunflower seeds, peanuts and peanut butter, berries and whole grains.

Don’t spend time reading material over and over again. Instead, studies suggest you put all of your senses to use by visualizing the terms, saying it out loud and using association by relating your material to something personally significant or relevant.

The study also explained in it’s study the best way to stay prepared is to be one step ahead; it’s better to pre-read text material before the topic is covered in class. Your class lecture will turn into a review and can help answer questions you may have had beforehand.

We’re all on the same team so limit your friendly fire. Form study groups to help each other out.

More importantly, your teachers are not the enemies so don’t be afraid to ask for some extra help. Use the resources they provide you with, such as study guides, practice tests, homework and even office hours.

Don’t forget to relax. Avoid stressing yourself out at all costs, for if you pace yourself and keep your load light you will feel less pressured.

It’s going to feel like a long battle, but if you get enough sleep, eat right and study your material you can win the semester-long fight.