Always use connective thinking.

• Don't view the homework or individual homework questions as "hoops" to quickly jump through and be done with. Always step back and think about what the instructor intended for your learning by writing the question that way. Think about possible connections or themes running from one question to the next.
  
• In geology, over 90% of the time, it's best to connect something visual with either a cause or a process. For instance, think of a granite roadcut....first see that granite in your mind's eye, but then think of its cause, its origin. (Right now, you should be thinking of a melt solidifying.)
  
• You must do connective thinking to do well in geology. For instance, could you possibly understand what a xenolith is without understanding its cause or process of formation? Here's an example of how connective thinking is oftentimes crucial..... Consider the question "Can a mineral lacking cleavage still have crystal faces?" Perhaps you can visualize a cleavage face, and also visualize a crystal face, but if you don't also think of the independent causes of each, you wouldn't be able to answer the question. Again, always endeavor to connect a feature (a thing) with a process or cause.
  
• You are strongly encouraged to form study groups with your classmates, and feel free to email or call me with questions as your group is working.