This paper reviews many of the observed characteristics and study habits of first-year students in Iowa State University's electrical engineering programme (Ames, Iowa, USA). The studying and problem-solving practices of the students are discussed to identify salient traits, strengths and weaknesses, and critical symptoms thereof, which can affect learning in technical fields, as well as life-long learning. The effects the Internet and the use of computer games have on student thinking and problem-solving approaches are also discussed.