Your A+ Triple Threat: Master Finals with Sleep, Sweat & Study Smarts


As final exams approach, students often find themselves in a whirlwind of stress and study sessions. While it’s crucial to focus on your studies, it’s equally important to maintain a healthy balance with sleep and exercise. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the challenging waters of final exams with a holistic approach to studying.

  1. Plan Your Study Schedule Wisely
    Start Early: Begin your study preparation well in advance of the exam dates. This allows you to break down the material into manageable sections and avoid last-minute cramming.
    Set Realistic Goals: Each day, set clear and achievable study goals. This could include covering certain chapters, revising specific topics, or practicing exam questions.
  2. Incorporate Active Learning Techniques
    Active Recall: Instead of just reading your notes, test yourself on the material. Flashcards, practice tests, and teaching the material to someone else are great ways to reinforce learning.
    Variety in Study Methods: Mix up your study methods to keep things interesting. Use mind maps, summaries, quizzes, and group studies to diversify your learning process.
  3. Don’t Underestimate the Power of Sleep
    Regular Sleep Schedule: Maintain a regular sleep schedule, even during intense study periods. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to ensure your brain is rested and ready to absorb information.
    Avoid All-Nighters: Pulling an all-nighter can disrupt your cognitive functions. Instead, study during your most alert hours of the day and give your brain the rest it needs at night.
  4. Incorporate Physical Activity into Your Routine
    Regular Exercise: Engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily. This can include walking, jogging, yoga, or any other physical activity that you enjoy.
    Exercise as a Break: Use exercise as a study break. It helps in clearing your mind, reducing stress, and improving concentration when you return to your books.
  5. Healthy Eating and Hydration
    Balanced Diet: Fuel your brain with nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that can make you feel sluggish.
    Stay Hydrated: Keep yourself well-hydrated with water or herbal teas. Dehydration can lead to fatigue and decreased concentration.
  6. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
    Take Short Breaks: During long study sessions, take 5-10 minute breaks every hour. This can help in maintaining focus and retaining information.
    Mindfulness Practices: Incorporate mindfulness or meditation into your daily routine to reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
  7. Organize Your Study Space
    Clutter-Free Environment: Keep your study area clean and organized. A clutter-free space can help in reducing distractions and improving focus.
    Comfortable Setting: Ensure your study space is comfortable, well-lit, and conducive to learning.
  8. Seek Support When Needed
    Study Groups: Join or form study groups to gain different perspectives and clarify doubts.
    Tutoring Services: Don’t hesitate to seek help from tutors or professors if you’re struggling with certain topics.

    Balancing study with adequate sleep and exercise is key to successful exam preparation. Remember, your health and well-being are just as important as your grades. So, plan wisely, stay active, rest well, and you’ll be on your way to achieving your academic goals. Good luck with your finals!

What are two or three of your best tips for studying for final exams?

Signature Block: Barbara is Listening

From Confused to Confident: Mastering APA Format in 10 Easy Steps

person writing on a notebook beside macbook
Photo by Judit Peter on Pexels.com

Students in my PRCM 1000 Public Relations and Media Relations Fundamentals course have just completed their first papers using American Psychological Association (APA) format. In our course, I provided them with a variety of helpful resources. While most of the students caught on quickly to using APA format, there were still quite a few who struggled with this new (to them) way of writing.

Here are some of the most common errors that these students made, with links to resources for additional information and help.

  1. Getting the Format Just Right: APA has its own style for how your paper should look. Remember to double-space, keep those margins at one inch, and use a readable font like 12-point Times New Roman. Also, don’t forget about the running head and page numbers – they’re important too.
  2. Citation Confusions: When you mention someone else’s ideas, APA wants you to include the author’s last name and the year the work was published right there in your text. It’s easy to miss one of these or get the format a bit mixed up, but with a bit of practice, you’ll get the hang of it.
  3. Reference List Hiccups: At the end of your paper, you’ll list all your sources. This part can be tricky. Each entry needs to follow APA’s rules for things like authors, titles and publication details. It’s all about getting the details right – like getting names and dates in order and using italics where needed.
  4. Title Page Troubles: Your title page is like the welcome mat of your paper. It should have your paper’s title, your name, and where you study. Sometimes there’s an author note, too. Make sure this page is neatly organized as per APA’s layout.
  5. Heading Hang-ups: APA uses specific styles for headings to organize your paper. It’s easy to get these mixed up or forget them, but they really help make your paper clear and easy to follow. (NOTE: Headings were not required for this first paper.)
  6. Abstract Angles: If you need an abstract, keep it short and sweet (150-250 words). It’s like a mini-version of your paper, highlighting the key points. (NOTE: An abstract was not required for this first paper.)
  7. Quote Quirks and Paraphrasing Pitfalls: Using quotes? Make sure you don’t overdo it and follow APA’s rules for formatting them. When you’re putting things in your own words (paraphrasing), be sure it’s really in your own words to avoid plagiarism.
  8. Plagiarism Pointers: Always give credit where it’s due. Make sure you’re citing all your sources to avoid any plagiarism pitfalls.
  9. Technical Term Tangles: APA likes it when you use the right technical terms but in a clear way. It’s about striking a balance between being accurate and being understandable.
  10. Consistency is Key: Stick to the same formatting, style and voice all through your paper. It helps in making your paper look professional and well-thought-out.

Remember, mastering APA style is a learning curve, and it’s perfectly fine to take your time to get familiar with it. Use resources like the APA manual, online guides or your campus writing center. And always, always proofread your work. You’ve got this! ?

What questions do you have about APA style? Please let me know. I’m happy to help!

Signature Block: Barbara is Listening

NOTES

The framework of this article was inspired by ChatGPT.

New to PR? Avoid These Typical News Release Errors

When you’re drafting a news release, the devil’s in the details, especially with AP style. It’s a bit like Goldilocks: not too hot, not too cold, but just right. For example, get your dateline city names in ALL CAPS. It’s a spotlight on where the action is happening. And those state abbreviations? They’re not a free-for-all; they’ve got to match AP’s specific style.

Headlines, though? They’re more of a low-key affair. Stick to sentence case—only the first word and proper nouns earn the right to a capital letter. It’s like a calm handshake compared to a high-five. And when releasing your news, timing is everything. “For Immediate Release” can scream urgency, but sometimes a specific date whispers professionalism.

Remember, too, that active voice is your friend. It strides confidently into the room, while passive voice might just hover at the door. These aren’t just tips; they’re the threads that weave your news release into a tapestry of credibility. Let’s zoom in and fine-tune these elements, ensuring your news release hits all the right notes with the precision of a professional.

Common Errors to Avoid

Below are some more of the most common errors I tend to see in the first news releases written by public relations students.

  • Forgetting that a news release needs to be NEWSWORTHY
  • AP style errors, most notably including a serial comma, capitalizing titles after a name and improper abbreviations
  • Some cities don’t need states in the dateline.
  • Missing a strong summary lede
  • Missing the nut graf
  • Missing required elements, such as end marks, contact information and boilerplate content
  • Including exclamation points unless they are part of a quotation from a source
  • Using I/we/our, unless you are using a direct quotation. The story should read as though it is from a journalist, not a PR practitioner or the client.
  • Editorializing in a news story.
  • Failing to use a quotation or two to liven up the story

So what’s the best way to avoid these errors? Read news releases from written by public relations practitioners. And just like getting to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice.

PR Pros & Journalists: What other mistakes do you tend to see new public relations writers make?

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Image Credit: Created using DALL-E 3

Mock to Rock: Preparing for Your Public Relations Job Interview

Stepping into the world of public relations is thrilling (and a little scary), and it all kicks off with nailing that job interview. This is your moment to shine, to flaunt your skills, and to show them how much you’re into the ever-evolving PR landscape.

Whether you’re on the hunt for an internship or that first real job, rocking the interview is your ticket in. So, I’ve created a list of 10 essential tips for PR students gearing up for interview day. From diving deep into the company’s vibe to getting savvy with virtual chats, these pointers are your go-to guide for making a splash and getting a head start on your PR journey.

Research the Company

Acquaint yourself with the company’s culture, values, recent campaigns and the broader industry landscape. Google is your friend here. But also check LinkedIn to see if anyone you know works at the company, and ask them questions as well.

Prepare for Common Questions

Anticipate questions related to your coursework, experiences and why you’re interested in a PR career. See 30+ Questions You’ll Be Asked in an Internship Interview for some question possibilities. PRO TIP: Keep a copy of your resume within easy access in case you need to check a date or company name.

Have Questions Ready for YOU to Ask

Prepare thoughtful questions to ask your interviewers, demonstrating your genuine interest. See 15 Questions Job Interviewers Love to Hear.

Practice Your Responses

Engage in mock interviews to articulate your thoughts coherently and confidently. Check to see if your university’s career services department offers this service.

Showcase Your Portfolio

Be ready to share and discuss samples of your work, such as press releases or social media campaigns. Have hard copies available to hand across the desk if the interview is face to face. Have the files open and ready to share on your computer, if the interview is a virtual one.

Follow Up

Send a thank-you email expressing your gratitude for the opportunity to interview. Never, ever forget to do this. This one extra touchpoint with your interviewer might make all the difference.

Dress Appropriately

Opt for business or smart casual attire, ensuring you present yourself professionally. See Smart Casual Attire: A Guide to the Dress Code With Examples.

Zoom Tip – ALWAYS Test Your Tech

Ensure your internet connection, camera and microphone work properly ahead of time. Make sure Zoom doesn’t need to update right before your interview; this will throw you off.

Zoom Tip – Maintain Eye Contact

Look into the camera when speaking, not at the interviewer’s image on your screen. Move your computer to a position where the camera is at your eye level.

Stay Calm and Be Yourself

And finally, your authentic self is your greatest asset. Stay calm, and let your passion for PR shine through.

In Closing

If you’ve recently participated in a job interview, especially for an internship, what other tips would you offer?

Signature Block: Barbara is Listening

NOTES

The framework of this article was inspired by ChatGPT. Images were created using Adobe Firefly.

Navigating Names, Numerals, and More: A Focused Guide for Your AP Style Quiz

If you’re a public relations or journalism student preparing to take your first Associated Style quizzes, be sure to read these helpful tips.

General Tips

  • Review the AP Stylebook: Familiarize yourself with the key sections that will be covered in the quiz.
  • Review Resources in Canvas: If your professor has provided additional resources, such as videos, in your course, take advantage of them.
  • Practice Quizzes: Take practice quizzes to identify your weak areas. See Where to Find AP Style Practice Quizzes.
  • Study Group: Form a study group with others in your class to discuss complex rules and exceptions.

Abbreviations

  • Focus on common abbreviations like states, addresses, months and organizations.
  • Understand when to use an abbreviation and when to spell it out.

Numerals

  • Learn the rules for when to spell out numbers and when to use numerals.
  • Pay attention to specifics like ages, percentages and dates.

Names and Titles

  • Learn the AP Style guidelines for using courtesy titles.
  • Understand how to abbreviate academic degrees and professional titles.
  • Know when to use full names and last names only.

Grammar

  • Brush up on common grammar rules covered in AP Style.
  • Practice identifying and correcting grammatical errors in sample sentences.

Quiz Day Tips

In my classes, a lockdown browser is required for AP Style quizzes. Additionally, you may not use any resources while taking the quiz (including but not limited to the AP Stylebook, websites or your own notes.)

  • Test Your Tech: Ensure that your computer, lockdown browser and internet connection are all working well in advance. (Taking the practice quiz is a great way to do this.)
  • Find a Quiet Space: Choose a distraction-free environment where you won’t be interrupted during the quiz.
  • Read Carefully: Even in a digital format, make sure to read each question and all answer options before selecting your choice.
  • Pace Yourself: Time management is crucial. Keep an eye on the clock but don’t rush. My graded quizzes are 15 questions in 15 minutes.
  • Review: If time allows, review your answers before submitting the quiz.

What additional tips do you have?

Where to Find AP Style Practice Quizzes

white newspaper beside teacup
Photo by Elijah O’Donnell on Pexels.com

If you’re preparing to take graded Associated Style quizzes, it would definitely benefit you to take a few practice quizzes first. Below are several sites with practice quizzes. NOTE: I have not verified that every quiz site has correct answers on all their quizzes, but this should give you a great, low-pressure start.

Try out the quizzes from:

Have you come across other sites with AP Style quizzes? Please share them in the comments.

From Chaos to Coordination: How Google Drive Can Transform Your Project Team in a College Course

Working on a team project can be a lot of fun, but it can also be challenging. One of the biggest challenges is keeping everyone organized and on the same page. That’s where Google Drive comes in.

Google Drive is a free online storage and collaboration tool that can be a lifesaver for team projects. It allows you to create shared folders and files, which means that everyone on your team can access and edit the same documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. Plus, Google Drive keeps track of all changes made to files, so you can easily revert to a previous version if necessary.

Here are some tips for using Google Drive to organize your college public relations team project:

  1. Create a shared folder for your project. This will be your central hub for all of your project files.
  2. Create a subfolder structure within the shared folder to organize your files. For example, you might have subfolders for different types of files (e.g., press releases, media kits, social media posts), different team members, or different clients.
  3. Share the folder with your team members. You can choose to give them full edit access or view-only access, depending on their needs.
  4. Encourage your team members to use Google Drive to create and edit all of the project files. This will make it easy to keep track of all of the changes and to ensure that everyone is working on the latest version of each file.
  5. Use Google Drive’s real-time collaboration features to work on files together. This can help to speed up the workflow and to improve communication among team members.

Here are some additional tips for using Google Drive to organize your college public relations team project:

  • Use descriptive file names. This will make it easy for you and your team members to find the files you need.
  • Use tags to organize your files. Tags are labels that you can apply to files to make them easier to find. For example, you might tag a file with the name of the client, the type of project, or the deadline.
  • Use Google Drive’s search feature to find files quickly and easily. You can search by file name, tag, or keyword.
  • Use Google Drive’s commenting feature to leave feedback on files. This can help to improve communication among team members and to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
  • Use Google Drive to create a shared calendar for your team. This will help you to keep track of important deadlines and to schedule meetings and events.
  • Use Google Drive to create a shared contact list for your team. This will make it easy for everyone to access the contact information for clients, journalists, and other stakeholders.
  • Use Google Drive to create a shared resource library for your team. This could include templates for press releases, media alerts, and social media posts, as well as research reports and other relevant documents.

By following these tips, you can use Google Drive to organize your team project and to share resources, which will help you to set yourself up for success in your college public relations course.

And remember, Google Drive is your friend! It’s there to help you make your life easier, so don’t be afraid to use it to its full potential.

What tips on using Google Drive for team projects do you have? Please share them in the comments.

The framework of this article was inspired by Google Bard.

Cracking the Code: Essential AP Style Tips for PR Success

Four Rotor Enigma Machine from the Spy Museum

In the dozens of public relations courses I’ve taught over the years, one of my students’ biggest struggles is writing using Associated Press style.

Why is learning AP style so important? PR practitioner Sandra Hernandez offers this:

PR writers really need to know the things that make them effective. I learned to write in AP in college, because it was necessary to pass the class. I continued to write in AP because I found that what I send to media had a better response rate when written in AP.

To help students learn more about AP style, I sought feedback from a variety of public relations practitioners and faculty members, trying to come up with a list of what PR writers REALLY need to know (cold, without even looking in the AP Stylebook) about AP style.

The most important (and sometimes confusing) parts of AP Style for PR writers are:

  • dates (especially when to abbreviate)
  • addresses (especially when to abbreviate)
  • names (when to use titles, etc.)
  • numerals (when to spell out, when to use digits)
  • datelines (which cities need to be identified with their states)

Now you have choices about how to access the AP Stylebook. You can purchase a hardcopy of the book, buy an online subscription to it or find it in your college library.

Many PR writers can also benefit from brushing up on standard grammar. My favorite site for general grammar advice is Mignon Fogarty’s Grammar Girl. I strongly recommend that you subscribe to Grammar Girl’s podcast.

So, PR pros and journalists, what would you add? What can help PR students understand what they REALLY need to know about AP style?

[Updated from a blog post from April 2010]

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Unlocking the Secrets of PR Success: The One Tool You’re (Probably) Not Using

If you’re enrolled in a public relations course—especially if it’s among your first—you might be wondering how to best grasp the wealth of information coming your way. My advice: Start a learning journal. It’s an invaluable tool for multiple reasons, tailored here to the unique needs of a PR student.

Active Reinforcement for Better Comprehension

First off, let’s tackle reinforcement. Public relations is all about messaging and strategy. When you write down key theories or case studies, you’re not just memorizing; you’re comprehending. Remember, understanding PR tactics and strategies requires more than just passive listening or reading; it requires active engagement.

Reflection for Real-World Application

Reflection is another major benefit. The PR world is dynamic and constantly evolving. By revisiting your journal entries, you can think critically about how traditional PR theories adapt to, or diverge from, current practices. This will help you in real-world scenarios, where theoretical knowledge often needs to be applied creatively.

Identifying Gaps in Your Knowledge

Identifying gaps is crucial in a field that combines aspects of journalism, marketing and psychology. Your journal can highlight areas where you need further clarification. Maybe you’re not clear on how crisis management differs from regular PR practices, or perhaps you need to revisit the rules for an effective press release. Knowing what you don’t know is half the battle.

Exam and Pitch Preparation

Exams and client pitches have more in common than you’d think: both require succinct, effective communication. Think of your learning journal as your prep sheet. It offers an organized compilation of your learning, perfect for quick reviews before exams or client meetings.

A Treasure Trove for Your Career

For long-term benefits, your journal acts as a treasure trove (I can’t believe I actually used this term) of PR wisdom. Concepts you learn today may be relevant in your first job or even ten years down the line. Having a detailed record could be your secret weapon when you’re crafting a particularly tricky PR strategy later in your career.

Enhancing Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills

Public relations is a creative field. As you jot down insights and connect the dots between different PR elements, your problem-solving skills will naturally improve. The ability to draw connections between seemingly unrelated ideas is a hallmark of a skilled PR professional.

Personal Accountability and Professionalism

Finally, personal accountability. Being proactive in your learning will set you up for success in a field that demands initiative and responsibility. You’re not just being a student; you’re being a PR professional in training. To stay organized, add deadlines and reminders to your Google Calendar for journal reviews and course deliverables.

In conclusion, whether you’re new to the world of public relations or looking to up your game, a learning journal could be your key to success. It’s not just a study aid; it’s a long-term investment in your PR career.

Already Keep a Learning Journal?

If you already keep a learning journal for your courses, how have YOU found it beneficial? Please share your thoughts in a comment.

NOTES

The framework of this article was inspired by ChatGPT. Images were created using Adobe Firefly.

Crafting Professional Emails to Professors: A Practical Guide

Ever wanted to email your professor but didn’t know how to hit the right note? Fear not! Here’s a quick guide to help you sound like a pro!

1. Your Email Address Matters: Be sure to use your official university email with your name in it! It’s like your virtual business card and helps your email land safely in your professor’s inbox. (Plus, if you use a personal email address, your name might not match what shows in the course roster, which will likely cause a delay in the response.)

2. Say ‘Hi’ Like You Mean It: Start with a cheerful “Hello Professor [Last Name]” or “Dear Dr. [Last Name].” It’s friendly but still shows respect.

3. Don’t Forget the Course Deets in the Subject Line: Include the course name and number. It’s like giving your professor a roadmap to your question – super helpful!

4. Ask Away! Got questions? Don’t be shy! Make them clear and to the point, so you get the answers you need, pronto!

5. Grammar is Your New BFF: Show off your writing skills with proper punctuation and grammar. It makes your email as smooth as your favorite latte!

6. Say ‘Bye’ with Style: Wrap it up with a “Thanks a million!” or “Catch you in class!” or something that resonates with you. It keeps things friendly and upbeat.

7. Give It a Once-Over: Before you hit send, read it again. It’s like checking your reflection before heading out – you want to look your best!

TIP: Why the Course Name and Number are Your Secret Weapons ?

Professors juggle a lot of classes, so adding the course name and number is like giving them a helpful nudge in the right direction. It’s like saying, “Hey, remember me? I’m in that awesome class with you!”

Wrap It Up!

Emailing your professor doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Keep it friendly, clear, and don’t forget to sprinkle in those essential details. With these tips, you’ll be rocking those academic emails in no time!

What questions do you have about writing? Or maybe you have some tips to share?

NOTES

The framework of this article was inspired by ChatGPT. Images were created using Adobe Firefly.