College is the place to develop academic skills beyond attending classes, completing assignments and writing exams. Academic skills are the abilities, techniques and practices that help you in succeeding college life and professional life. Here are some important academic skills that all students should develop.
Critical thinking: It is the ability to understand concepts, objectively analyze information towards authenticity and build evidence-based arguments.
Reading Comprehension: It is the ability to understand and retain information by summarizing large volumes of data using techniques like skimming and scanning. Helps in studying, researching and writing papers.
Research Proficiency: It is the ability to formulate clear research questions, navigate academic databases and evaluate the credibility of sources in writing an assignment or research paper.
Writing Skills: It involves in the preparation of outline, taking notes, proper essay structuring, maintaining formal tone, ability to communicate complex ideas and adherence to specific citation styles.
Computer Skills: Knowledge in using essential software like Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, Google Workspace and other digital tools that enhance learning.
Communication Skills: Ability to ask insightful questions, participate in discussions and to perform presentations.
Time management: Ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines and balance academic, personal and professional responsibilities by using planners, to do list or timers.
Regular practice, reflection and willingness to seek help when needed are key components to develop these skills.
Which of these skills do you think is the most important to strengthen first?
MBH/PS