Advice

Brief Course Advice

• Read: Assigned sections of the textbook when they are assigned.
• Practice: Do the suggested problems from the textbook.
• Attend: Be present in every class.
• Ask: Speak up with questions—others likely share them.
• Start Early: Begin homework soon so you have time to ask for help.
• Complete: Do every problem on every assignment.
• Get Support: Use the Computer Science Help Center when you get stuck.
• Reach Out: Come to office hours or email me when you need clarification.
• Mindset: Focus on learning deeply, not just earning a grade.

General Advice for Any Course

• Focus: Prioritize learning; good grades usually follow. Be curious and engage fully in activities and discussions.
• Read: Do the assigned reading before class. Slow down, reread, take notes, and bring questions.
• Attend: Even if not required, being present leads to better understanding and outcomes.
• Practice: True understanding comes from doing problems and explaining your reasoning. Spread practice out; don’t cram.
• Communicate: If something is confusing, ask questions, visit office hours, or send an email. Talk with the instructor when struggling.

When You Get Stuck

• Simplify: Try a smaller example or restate the problem in your own words.
• Review: Go back to your notes and the relevant textbook section.
• Relate: Work on a related problem you can solve, then map ideas back.
• Ask: Write down questions and bring them to class, office hours, or the Help Center.

Keys to Long-Term Mastery

• Space Practice: Spread out study sessions; avoid cramming.
• Teach: Explain the idea to a friend or out loud to yourself.
• Connect: Relate new material to what you already know.
• Reflect: Review mistakes, correct them, and learn from them.