Anatomy and Physiology Resources

Succeeding in Anatomy & Physiology

Anatomy & Physiology (BIOL 2201 and BIOL 2202) are challenging courses, but with consistent effort and effective study strategies, many students find them manageable and rewarding. Because these courses are prerequisites for many healthcare programs, developing strong study habits early can help you build a solid foundation for future coursework.

The tips below are designed to help you stay organized, manage the workload, and learn complex material more effectively. If you would like additional support, the Tutoring Center offers free tutoring and academic coaching. Tutors can help you review course content and practice identifying structures, while academic coaches can work with you on study strategies, time management, and building a study plan for the semester.

Here's some helpful information for students taking Anatomy and Physiology courses.

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What to Expect

• BIOL 2201 and 2202 are demanding courses that cover a large amount of material.

• Many students spend more time studying for Anatomy & Physiology than for other classes.

• Success often depends on consistent study habits throughout the semester.

• You may need to adjust your study strategies and develop new ways of learning complex material.

• When possible, take this course during a semester when you have enough time and energy to devote to studying.

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Prepare Before the Semester Begins

Getting organized early can make the first weeks of the semester much easier.

• Review the course syllabus and grading policies.

• Become familiar with Blackboard and your online course materials as soon as the course opens.

• Practice accessing your textbook and other digital resources.

• Print or save important documents such as the syllabus, course schedule, and PowerPoint slides.

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Plan for the Workload

Anatomy & Physiology requires steady effort throughout the semester.

• Plan to spend at least 15 hours per week studying outside of class and lab.

  • For accelerated 7-week courses, this may increase to 30 hours per week.

• Begin reviewing and studying during the first week of the semester.

• Studying a little every day is often more effective than trying to catch up later.

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Manage Your Time

Good time management can make a big difference in this course.

• Create a weekly study schedule for the semester.

• Use a calendar to track exams, assignments, and deadlines.

• Set reminders on your phone or computer.

• Break large tasks into smaller steps.

• Remember to include time for rest, exercise, and personal responsibilities.

Academic coaches in the Tutoring Center can help you create a study plan and develop effective study strategies.

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Create a Productive Study Environment

Different students learn best in different environments. Consider what works best for you. Some students prefer:

• A quiet study space

• Light background noise

• Studying alone or with a group

Many students find it helpful to study in short, focused sessions (20–45 minutes) followed by brief breaks.

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Read and Review Course Materials

Previewing course materials before class can make lectures easier to understand.

• Read assigned textbook chapters and review PowerPoint slides before lecture.

• Use practice questions, diagrams, and review materials in your textbook or atlas.

• Identify terms or concepts you do not understand and ask your instructor for clarification.

• Reading difficult material out loud or explaining it to someone else can help reinforce understanding.

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Learn the Language

Anatomy and physiology rely heavily on specialized terminology.

• Break down complex words into roots, prefixes, and suffixes.

• Look up unfamiliar terms and write down definitions in your own words.

• Use your own body to help visualize and remember anatomical structures.

Understanding terminology early will make later topics easier to learn.

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Use Active Study Strategies

Handling the material in multiple ways helps improve retention.

Consider using a variety of study methods:

• Drawing diagrams or labeling structures

• Watching instructional videos

• Creating flashcards

• Completing practice quizzes or review questions

• Explaining concepts to a classmate or study partner

Many students also find it helpful to visit the Tutoring Center to use anatomical models while studying.

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Make the Most of Lab Sessions

Lab is an important opportunity to apply what you are learning.

• Review lab assignments before coming to lab.

• Use lab time to practice identifying structures and test your understanding.

• Study with multiple models or specimens when possible.

• Expect to work collaboratively with classmates during lab activities.

Being able to identify structures in different models can help you prepare for lab practical exams.

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Take Effective Notes

Taking organized notes can help you review important concepts later.

• Review PowerPoint slides before lecture or lab.

• Add notes that clarify or expand on the material presented.

• Highlight or mark concepts your instructor emphasizes or repeats.

• Write down page numbers or diagrams referenced during lecture so you can revisit them later.

Some students also find it helpful to ask permission to record lectures for review.

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Draw Your Ideas

Drawing diagrams can help you better understand and remember complex structures and processes.

• Practice drawing and labeling diagrams, such as the human heart or organ systems.

• Use whiteboards or large paper to sketch and review concepts.

• Repetition through drawing and labeling can strengthen your understanding and recall.

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Prepare for Quizzes and Exams

Preparing regularly can make test preparation less stressful.

• Review lecture notes, slides, and textbook materials throughout the semester.

• Use study guides or learning objectives when available.

• Create your own study guides or flashcards.

• Practice explaining concepts aloud or having someone quiz you.

• Rewriting or reorganizing your notes can also help reinforce what you have learned.

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Ask for Help Early

If you find yourself struggling with the material, reach out for support. You can:

• Attend your instructor’s office hours.

• Ask questions during lecture or lab.

• Form a study group with classmates.

• Meet regularly with a tutor.

• Visit the Tutoring Center to use anatomy models and other learning resources.

Many students find that asking for help early makes the course much more manageable.