Online learning has become an increasingly popular option for those looking to upskill or pursue new areas of interest. Whether you’re taking a course to enhance your resume or exploring a passion, developing good habits can maximize your learning experience and help you succeed. So, what sets highly effective online learners apart? Here are seven habits they tend to have in common:

They set clear goals and stay motivated: Effective online learners often have a clear understanding of their goals and the reason behind taking a particular course. They set specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals, which helps them stay focused and motivated throughout the course. Breaking down their overall goal into smaller, manageable milestones helps them track their progress and stay on course.

Self-discipline and consistency are their mantras: Online learning often demands a high level of self-discipline due to the flexibility and lack of traditional classroom structure. Successful online learners create a consistent study schedule and stick to it. They treat their online course with the same dedication and commitment as they would an in-person class, ensuring they dedicate sufficient time and energy to their learning journey.

They are active participants, not passive observers: It’s easy to be a passive observer when learning online, but highly effective learners actively engage with the course material. They ask questions, participate in discussions, and interact with their instructors and peers. They understand that learning is a two-way process and take advantage of the opportunities to clarify doubts and contribute to their learning community.