Review your class syllabus for any key concepts being discussed in class that day. Ensure you have completed any assigned reading or homework and review the work, if possible, for a few minutes before class starts to refresh your memory on what will be discussed.
Listen while in class. This may seem pretty obvious, but research indicates that individuals can only recall 50 percent of what they hear and that 20 to 30 percent is incorrect, according to Dartmouth University's Academic Skills Center. Sit in an area of the classroom where you will be able to listen for main ideas and key concepts when taking notes and refrain from letting your mind wander. Ask questions if you do not understand a piece of material rather than immediately rejecting it.
Take detailed notes. Find a note-taking method that works for you and review your notes regularly, as they are full of information the professor will most likely use in quizzes and tests. It also helps you review key concepts. Use the class's text to add to your notes or compare your notes with other students in the class to see if you missed any pertinent information.
Create practice test answers. If the professor hands out questions that will be on an upcoming exam, try writing out all the answers. While not every question is likely to appear on the exam, you will be extra ready to answer such questions on the actual exam.