This popular text combines theory, research, and applications to teach college students how to become more self-directed learners. Study skills are treated as a serious academic course. Students learn about human motivation and learning as they improve their study skills. The focus is on relevant information and features designed to help students to identify the components of academic learning that contribute to high achievement, to master and practice effective learning and study strategies, and then to complete self-management studies whereby they are taught a process for improving their academic behavior. A framework organized around six components related to academic success (motivation, methods of learning, time management, control of the physical and social environment, and monitoring performance) makes it easy for students to understand what they need to do to become more successful in the classroom. New in the Fourth Edition: More emphasis on research findings Expanded discussion of motivation Research about neuroscience in relationship to motivation and learning Latest brain-based learning research More student reflections New exercises COMPANION WEBSITE