RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN STUDY HABITS AND ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF STUDENTS IN TERTIARY INSTITUTIONS (CASE STUDY OF FIDEL POLYTECHNIC GBOKO)

ABSTRACT This study examined the relationship between study habits and academic performance among students of Fidel Polytechnic. The purpose was to determine how components of study habits such as time management, reading strategies, note-taking skills, concentration, and examination preparation influence students’ academic outcomes. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population comprised National Diploma (ND) and Higher National Diploma (HND) students of the institution. A structured questionnaire titled Study Habits and Academic Performance Questionnaire (SHAPQ) was used for data collection, while students’ cumulative grade point averages (CGPAs) were used as measures of academic performance. Data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, Pearson Product Moment Correlation, and regression analysis. Findings revealed a significant positive relationship between effective study habits and academic performance. Time management, consistent revision, and organized note-taking emerged as strong predictors of academic success. The study concluded that students who adopt structured and disciplined study practices perform better academically than those with irregular or poor study routines. It was recommended that academic counseling units should organize seminars and workshops to train students in effective study techniques and self-regulated learning strategies.