An effective studying strategy requires developed personalized study skills to increase student success and retention at the college level. Within these personalized study skills, different students have developed different study habits and environments (study patterns). Yet, the study patterns of people who have achieved outstanding academic success often show a well-designed pattern or schedule. There is no perfect study pattern template that applies to all students, although certain times of a day and certain locations are preferred by a number of students who perform well academically. College students should understand the importance of personalized study patterns and studying on a consistent basis instead of frequent procrastination in order to promote student success and to achieve their ultimate career goal after graduation. This article evaluates previously published literature regarding variation in study patterns among graduate and undergraduate college students, with a recommendation of preferred studying times and locations from genuinely high-ability students.