Denison university sat. Denison University Admission Requirements: SAT Scores, GPA, and More

What are the admission requirements for Denison University. How competitive is Denison’s acceptance rate. What SAT scores and GPA do you need for Denison. How can you improve your chances of getting into Denison University.

Denison University: An Overview of Admission Standards

Denison University, located in Granville, Ohio, is known for its rigorous academic standards and selective admission process. With an acceptance rate of 33.9%, Denison is considered a very selective institution. This means that for every 100 applicants, only 34 are admitted, making it crucial for prospective students to understand and meet the university’s admission requirements.

To gain admission to Denison University, applicants need to focus on several key areas:

• GPA requirements
• Standardized test scores (SAT and ACT)
• Application components

By excelling in these areas, applicants can significantly improve their chances of being accepted into this prestigious institution.

Understanding Denison’s GPA Requirements

The average GPA of students admitted to Denison University is 3.73. This high average indicates that the university expects applicants to be above average in their high school academic performance. But what does this mean for prospective students?

• A mix of A’s and B’s is necessary, with more A’s than B’s
• Taking challenging courses like AP or IB can compensate for a slightly lower GPA
• Demonstrating the ability to handle rigorous academics is crucial

For juniors and seniors whose GPAs are already established, focusing on other aspects of the application becomes even more important. A strong SAT or ACT score can help compensate for a GPA that’s slightly below the average.

Denison’s SAT Score Requirements

While Denison University doesn’t officially publish a minimum SAT score requirement, understanding the average scores of admitted students can provide valuable insight. The average SAT score composite at Denison is 1300 on the 1600 SAT scale.

Here’s a breakdown of SAT scores by section:

• Math: Average 660 (25th percentile: 610, 75th percentile: 710)
• Reading + Writing: Average 640 (25th percentile: 600, 75th percentile: 670)
• Composite: Average 1300 (25th percentile: 1210, 75th percentile: 1380)

Scoring at or above these averages can significantly strengthen your application. Is a lower score a deal-breaker? Not necessarily, but it does mean other parts of your application need to be exceptionally strong to compensate.

ACT Scores for Denison University Admission

For students opting to take the ACT, Denison’s standards are equally competitive. The average ACT score for admitted students is 30, placing Denison in the “Strongly Competitive” category for ACT scores.

Understanding the score breakdown can help applicants gauge their standing:

• 25th percentile ACT score: 28
• 75th percentile ACT score: 32

Scoring within or above this range can significantly boost your chances of admission. However, a score below 28 doesn’t automatically disqualify you – it just means the rest of your application needs to be particularly strong to offset the lower test score.

The Importance of a Well-Rounded Application

While GPA and test scores are crucial components of the admission process, Denison University values a holistic approach to evaluating applicants. What other factors come into play?

• Extracurricular activities
• Leadership experiences
• Community involvement
• Personal essays
• Letters of recommendation

These elements provide a more comprehensive view of each applicant, allowing the admissions committee to assess not just academic prowess, but also personal qualities, potential contributions to the Denison community, and overall fit with the university’s values and culture.

Strategies to Enhance Your Denison Application

Given the competitive nature of Denison’s admissions process, how can prospective students strengthen their applications? Consider these strategies:

1. Focus on academic excellence throughout high school
2. Take challenging courses to demonstrate intellectual curiosity
3. Prepare thoroughly for standardized tests
4. Engage deeply in extracurricular activities that align with your passions
5. Seek leadership roles in school or community organizations
6. Craft compelling personal essays that showcase your unique perspectives and experiences
7. Build strong relationships with teachers who can write insightful recommendation letters

By implementing these strategies, applicants can present a well-rounded and compelling case for their admission to Denison University.

The Role of Early Decision in Denison Admissions

Denison University offers an Early Decision (ED) option for applicants who are certain that Denison is their top choice. Does applying ED increase your chances of admission? Generally, yes. Early Decision applicants often have a higher acceptance rate compared to Regular Decision applicants.

Key points to consider about Early Decision at Denison:

• ED is binding – if accepted, you are committed to attending Denison
• The deadline for ED is typically in November
• ED applicants receive their decision by mid-December
• Financial aid packages are provided with ED acceptance letters

Applying Early Decision demonstrates a strong commitment to Denison, which can be viewed favorably by the admissions committee. However, it’s crucial to be certain about your choice and to have a strong application ready earlier in the admissions cycle.

Financial Aid and Scholarships at Denison

Understanding the financial aspects of attending Denison University is an important part of the application process. How does Denison support students financially?

• Denison meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for all admitted students
• Merit scholarships are available for exceptional applicants
• Need-based aid packages may include grants, loans, and work-study opportunities
• Special scholarships are offered for specific talents or backgrounds

Prospective students should not let financial concerns deter them from applying to Denison. The university’s commitment to meeting full demonstrated need means that admitted students from all economic backgrounds have the opportunity to attend.

Types of Financial Aid Available

Denison offers various forms of financial assistance:

1. Need-based grants
2. Merit scholarships
3. Federal and state grants
4. Federal work-study programs
5. Student loans

Applicants are encouraged to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile to be considered for all forms of financial aid.

Campus Life and Student Experience at Denison

While meeting admission requirements is crucial, it’s equally important to consider what life at Denison University entails. What can admitted students expect from their Denison experience?

• A vibrant residential campus community
• Over 160 student organizations
• Division III athletic programs
• Emphasis on global and diverse perspectives
• Opportunities for undergraduate research
• Strong career development and alumni network

Denison’s commitment to a well-rounded liberal arts education extends beyond the classroom, offering students numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Academic Programs and Opportunities

Denison University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

• Over 50 majors and 11 pre-professional programs
• Interdisciplinary studies options
• Study abroad programs in over 40 countries
• Undergraduate research opportunities across disciplines
• Internship programs with leading companies and organizations

This diverse academic landscape allows students to explore their interests and prepare for successful careers or graduate studies.

The Application Timeline: Key Dates and Deadlines

Understanding the application timeline is crucial for prospective Denison students. What are the key dates to remember?

• Early Decision I deadline: November 15
• Early Decision II deadline: January 15
• Regular Decision deadline: January 15
• Financial aid application deadline: February 15
• Admission decisions released: Late March
• Enrollment deposit deadline: May 1

Meeting these deadlines is essential for ensuring your application receives full consideration. It’s advisable to start the application process well in advance to allow ample time for gathering materials, writing essays, and securing recommendations.

Tips for Managing the Application Process

To navigate the application process smoothly, consider these tips:

1. Create a timeline and checklist of required materials
2. Start working on essays and personal statements early
3. Request letters of recommendation well in advance
4. Review your application thoroughly before submission
5. Keep track of all communication from Denison’s admissions office

By staying organized and proactive, you can reduce stress and ensure a complete, compelling application.

Beyond Admission: Preparing for Success at Denison

Once admitted to Denison University, how can students prepare for a successful college experience? Consider these strategies:

• Attend admitted student events to connect with future classmates and faculty
• Explore academic programs and potential majors
• Familiarize yourself with campus resources and support services
• Consider summer programs or readings to prepare for college-level coursework
• Reach out to current students or alumni for insights and advice

Taking these steps can help ensure a smooth transition to college life and set the foundation for a rewarding Denison experience.

First-Year Programs at Denison

Denison offers several programs designed to help first-year students acclimate to college life:

• First-Year Seminar program
• Residential learning communities
• Peer mentoring initiatives
• Academic advising support
• Career exploration workshops

These programs provide valuable support and guidance as students navigate their first year at Denison.

The Value of a Denison Education: Career Outcomes and Alumni Success

Prospective students often wonder about the long-term value of a Denison education. What can graduates expect in terms of career outcomes and success?

• High graduate school acceptance rates
• Strong job placement rates within six months of graduation
• Diverse career paths across various industries
• Active and supportive alumni network
• Lifetime career services support for alumni

Denison’s commitment to student success extends well beyond graduation, with ongoing support and resources available to alumni throughout their careers.

Notable Denison Alumni

Denison University boasts a impressive list of accomplished alumni, including:

• Pulitzer Prize-winning journalists
• Fortune 500 CEOs
• Renowned artists and performers
• Influential policymakers and politicians
• Innovative entrepreneurs and business leaders

These success stories highlight the diverse paths Denison graduates take and the impact they make in their respective fields.

Denison University Admission Requirements

What are Denison University’s admission requirements? While there are a lot of pieces that go into a college application, you should focus on only a few critical things:

• GPA requirements
• Testing requirements, including SAT and ACT requirements
• Application requirements

In this guide we’ll cover what you need to get into Denison University and build a strong application.

School location: Granville, OH

Admissions Rate: 33.9%

If you want to get in, the first thing to look at is the acceptance rate. This tells you how competitive the school is and how serious their requirements are.

The acceptance rate at Denison University is 33.9%. For every 100 applicants, 34 are admitted.

This means the school is
very selective. If you meet Denison University’s requirements for GPA, SAT/ACT scores, and other components of the application, you have a great shot at getting in. But if you fall short on GPA or your SAT/ACT scores, you’ll have a very low chance of being admitted, even if you meet the other admissions requirements.

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We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

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Denison University GPA Requirements

Many schools specify a minimum GPA requirement, but this is often just the bare minimum to submit an application without immediately getting rejected.

The GPA requirement that really matters is the GPA you need for a real chance of getting in. For this, we look at the school’s average GPA for its current students.

Average GPA: 3.73

The average GPA at Denison University is 3.73.

(Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA.
This school did not officially report its average GPA, but we’ve estimated it here using data from over 1,000 schools.)

With a GPA of 3.73, Denison University
requires you to be above average in your high school class. You’ll need at least a mix of A’s and B’s, with more A’s than B’s. You can compensate for a lower GPA with harder classes, like AP or IB classes. This will show that you’re able to handle more difficult academics than the average high school student.

If you’re currently a junior or senior, your GPA is hard to change in time for college applications. If your GPA is at or below the school average of 3. 73, you’ll need a higher SAT or ACT score to compensate. This will help you compete effectively against other applicants who have higher GPAs than you.

SAT and ACT Requirements

Each school has different requirements for standardized testing. Most schools require the SAT or ACT, and many also require SAT subject tests.

Denison University has indicated that the SAT or ACT is required for some applicants. This can mean a few things:

• The SAT or ACT is optional, but recommended by the school to improve your application chances.
• You might be able to get admitted with through your GPA or class ranking alone.
• Only specific departments at the school require the SAT or ACT.

If you’re applying to this and other schools, it’s safest to take the SAT or ACT. This will maximize your chance of getting into the best school possible, especially since most other students will be submitting their scores.

Denison University SAT Requirements

Many schools say they have no SAT score cutoff, but the truth is that there is a hidden SAT requirement. This is based on the school’s average score.

Average SAT: 1300

The average SAT score composite at Denison University is a 1300 on the 1600 SAT scale.

This score makes Denison University Moderately Competitive for SAT test scores.

Denison University SAT Score Analysis (New 1600 SAT)

The 25th percentile SAT score is 1210, and the 75th percentile SAT score is 1380. In other words, a 1210 on the SAT places you below average, while a 1380 will move you up to above average.

Here’s the breakdown of SAT scores by section:

SAT Score Choice Policy

The Score Choice policy at your school is an important part of your testing strategy.

Denison University ACT Requirements

Just like for the SAT, Denison University likely doesn’t have a hard ACT cutoff, but if you score too low, your application will get tossed in the trash.

Average ACT: 30

The average ACT score at Denison University is 30. This score makes Denison University Strongly Competitive for ACT scores.

The 25th percentile ACT score is 28, and the 75th percentile ACT score is 31.

Even though Denison University likely says they have no minimum ACT requirement, if you apply with a 28 or below, you’ll have a very hard time getting in, unless you have something else very impressive in your application. There are so many applicants scoring 30 and above that a 28 will look academically weak.

ACT Score Sending Policy

If you’re taking the ACT as opposed to the SAT, you have a huge advantage in how you send scores, and this dramatically affects your testing strategy.

Here it is: when you send ACT scores to colleges, you have absolute control over which tests you send. You could take 10 tests, and only send your highest one. This is unlike the SAT, where many schools require you to send all your tests ever taken.

This means that you have more chances than you think to improve your ACT score. To try to aim for the school’s ACT requirement of 31 and above, you should try to take the ACT as many times as you can. When you have the final score that you’re happy with, you can then send only that score to all your schools.

ACT Superscore Policy

By and large, most colleges do not superscore the ACT. (Superscore means that the school takes your best section scores from all the test dates you submit, and then combines them into the best possible composite score). Thus, most schools will just take your highest ACT score from a single sitting.

However, in our research, we found that Denison University does in fact offer an ACT superscore policy. To quote their Admissions Office:

Test Optional. Contact School for Information

Source

Superscoring is powerful to your testing strategy, and you need to make sure you plan your testing accordingly. Of all the scores that Denison University receives, your application readers will consider your highest section scores across all ACT test dates you submit.

Click below to learn more about how superscoring critically affects your test strategy.

How does superscoring change your test strategy? (Click to Learn)

For example, say you submit the following 4 test scores:

Even though the highest ACT composite you scored on any one test date was 20, Denison University will take your highest section score from all your test dates, then combine them to form your Superscore. You can raise your composite score from 20 to 32 in this example.

This is important for your testing strategy. Because you can choose which tests to send in, and Denison University forms your Superscore, you can take the ACT as many times as you want, then submit only the tests that give you the highest Superscore. Your application readers will only see that one score.

Therefore, if your ACT score is currently below a 31, we strongly recommend that you consider prepping for the ACT and retaking it. You have a very good chance of raising your score, which will significantly boost your chances of getting in.

Even better, because of the Superscore, you can focus all your energy on a single section at a time. If your Reading score is lower than your other sections, prep only for the Reading section, then take the ACT. Then focus on Math for the next test, and so on. This will give you the highest Superscore possible.

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Download our free guide on the top 5 strategies you must be using to improve your score. This guide was written by Harvard graduates and ACT perfect scorers. If you apply the strategies in this guide, you’ll study smarter and make huge score improvements.

SAT/ACT Writing Section Requirements

Both the SAT and ACT have an optional essay section.

Denison University considers the SAT Essay/ACT Writing section optional and may not include it as part of their admissions consideration. You don’t need to worry too much about Writing for this school, but other schools you’re applying to may require it.

SAT Subject Test Requirements

Schools vary in their SAT subject test requirements. Typically, selective schools tend to require them, while most schools in the country do not.

We did not find information that Denison University requires SAT subject tests, and so most likely it does not. At least 6 months before applying, you should still doublecheck just to make sure, so you have enough time to take the test.

Final Admissions Verdict

Because this school is very selective, strong academic scores are critical to improving your chances of admission. If you’re able to score a 1380 SAT or a 31 ACT or above, you’ll have a very strong chance at getting in.

For a school as selective as Denison University, rounding out the rest of your application will also help. We’ll cover those details next.

But if you apply with a score below a 1380 SAT or a 31 ACT, you unfortunately have a low chance of getting in. There are just too many other applicants with high SAT/ACT scores and strong applications, and you need to compete against them.

Want to build the best possible college application?

We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world’s best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies. We’ve overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools, from state colleges to the Ivy League.

We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

Admissions Calculator

What are your chances of admission at Denison University?

Chances of admission with these scores:

Here’s our custom admissions calculator. Plug in your numbers to see what your chances of getting in are.

Pick your test:
SAT
ACT

SAT Score

Your GPA

Note: Your admission decision relies not only on your GPA and SAT/ACT scores, but also on your coursework difficulty, extracurriculars, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. This tool provides only a simplistic estimate of your chances of admission. Instead of treating this tool as a crystal ball, we recommend you consider the big picture of what your chance means:

• 80-100%: Safety school: Strong chance of getting in
• 50-80%: More likely than not getting in
• 20-50%: Lower but still good chance of getting in
• 5-20%: Reach school: Unlikely to get in, but still have a shot
• 0-5%: Hard reach school: Very difficult to get in

We recommend you apply to schools across a range of chances. Applying to some safety schools will guarantee you have a college to go to, while applying to some reach schools will give you a shot at getting into the school at the top of your range.

How would your chances improve with a better score?

Take your current SAT score and add 160 points (or take your ACT score and add 4 points) to the calculator above. See how much your chances improve?

At PrepScholar, we’ve created the leading online SAT/ACT prep program. We guarantee an improvement of 160 SAT points or 4 ACT points on your score, or your money back.

Here’s a summary of why we’re so much more effective than other prep programs:

• PrepScholar customizes your prep to your strengths and weaknesses. You don’t waste time working on areas you already know, so you get more results in less time.
• We guide you through your program step-by-step so that you’re never confused about what you should be studying. Focus all your time learning, not worrying about what to learn.
• Our team is made of national SAT/ACT experts. PrepScholar’s founders are Harvard graduates and SAT perfect scorers. You’ll be studying using the strategies that actually worked for them.
• We’ve gotten tremendous results with thousands of students across the country. Read about our score results and reviews from our happy customers.

There’s a lot more to PrepScholar that makes it the best SAT/ACT prep program. Click to learn more about our program, or sign up for our 5-day free trial to check out PrepScholar for yourself:

Application Requirements

Every school requires an application with the bare essentials – high school transcript and GPA, application form, and other core information. Many schools, as explained above, also require SAT and ACT scores, as well as letters of recommendation, application essays, and interviews. We’ll cover the exact requirements of Denison University here.

Application Requirements Overview

• Common Application
  Accepted
• Universal Application
  Not accepted
• Electronic Application
  Not available
• Essay or Personal Statement
  Required for all freshmen
• Letters of Recommendation
  2
• Interview
  Not required
• Application Fee
  No fee required for domestic applicants
• Fee Waiver Available?
  None
• Other Notes

Testing Requirements

• SAT or ACT
  Required for some
• SAT Essay or ACT Writing
  Optional
• SAT Subject Tests
• Scores Due in Office
  February 1

Coursework Requirements

• Subject
  Required Years
• English
  4
• Math
  4
• Science
  4
• Foreign Language
  3
• Social Studies
  2
• History
  1
• Electives
  1

Deadlines and Early Admissions

•  
  • Offered?
    Deadline
    Notification
• Regular Admission
  • Yes
    January 15
    April 1
• Early Action
  • No
• Early Decision
  • Yes
    November 15, January 15
    January 1

Admissions Office Information

• Address:
  100
  Granville, OH 43023
• Phone:
  (740) 587-6276
• Fax:
  (740) 587-6306
• Email:
  [email protected]

Other Schools For You

If you’re interested in Denison University, you’ll probably be interested in these schools as well. We’ve divided them into 3 categories depending on how hard they are to get into, relative to Denison University.

Reach Schools: Harder to Get Into

These schools are have higher average SAT scores than Denison University. If you improve your SAT score, you’ll be competitive for these schools.

Same Level: Equally Hard to Get Into

If you’re competitive for Denison University, these schools will offer you a similar chance of admission.

Safety Schools: Easier to Get Into

If you’re currently competitive for Denison University, you should have no problem getting into these schools. If Denison University is currently out of your reach, you might already be competitive for these schools.

Want to build the best possible college application?

We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world’s best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies. We’ve overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools, from state colleges to the Ivy League.

We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit. We want to get you admitted to your dream schools.

Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

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Apply for Admission | Admission & Financial Aid

An overview of the application process, including a checklist and deadlines, for Denison University.

We Are Thrilled That You Are Considering Denison During Your College Search

We look forward to getting to know more about you through this process!

We Make It Easy!

Our admission policies reflect our commitment to providing equal access to a phenomenal Denison education:

Apply Now!

First-year students interested in Denison must submit an application through the Common Application or the Coalition Application. Don’t fret, there is no difference in how we evaluate application types.

Transfer students should complete the Denison Transfer Application. Learn More »

Admission Rounds & Deadlines

For first-year applicants, we have early decision and regular decision.

– Early Decision 1: November 15
– Early Decision 2: January 15
– Regular Decision: January 15

Transfer applicant? Deadlines are a little different. Learn More »

Regardless of when an admission decision is released, all admission decisions become final and official on April 1. Any appeals must be submitted prior to April 1.

Related Links

Admission Application 101

In evaluating your application to Denison, we take a number of things into consideration about you as an individual. We are seeking students who have demonstrated a seriousness toward their academic life and who, in addition, would bring a variety of interests, characteristics, and personal qualities to our dynamic campus community.

What We’ll Need from You

• Common Application or Coalition Application (required): Once you submit your application, you will be emailed a confirmation that includes login information for your online portal (where you can keep track of your other application materials). A personal essay is included in this application.
• Early Decision Agreement (only required for early decision applicants): This binding contract signed by you, a parent/guardian, and your high school counselor confirms as an early decision applicant that if admitted, you will enroll at Denison and withdraw any other applications.
• Interview (recommended): An interview is not required for admission consideration, but we do encourage applicants to complete one as an interview can provide a more personal element to your application. Interviews happen in a number of ways.
  Learn More »
• ACT/SAT Scores (optional): Denison is test-optional. Test scores can be submitted directly from a testing agency, through official high school transcripts, or test scores can be self-reported. Any test scores submitted will be superscored.
• Arts Supplement (optional): Students who have an interest in cinema, creative writing, dance, music, studio art, or theatre may submit supplementary arts materials for faculty evaluation. If submitted, students will be eligible to receive a departmental scholarship. This is done through the Denison Applicant Portal, which is available once the Common or Coalition Application has been submitted.

What We’ll Need from Others

• Counselor Recommendation & School Report (required): The applicant’s counselor submits these documents directly to us.
  *Home-schooled applicants should reference ‘home-schooled applicant’ recommendations below.
• High School Transcript (required): Your counselor must send us a copy of your official transcript. We will use this to recalculate your GPA and evaluate your academic performance and course selection.
• Teacher Evaluation (required): At least one teacher of a core course must submit a teacher evaluation form for you. You can invite your teachers to do this online, which is how they will submit the evaluation to us.
  *Home-schooled applicants should reference ‘home-schooled applicant’ recommendations below.
• Home-Schooled Applicant Recommendations (only required for home-schooled applicants): These recommendations must come from adults not related to you (unless a family member was your primary instructor). One reference should be a teacher, and the other should be from someone affiliated with one of your extracurricular activities.

Questions? Check out our Admission FAQ

All offers of admission are conditional based on Denison’s Conditions of Admission policy.

Denison University is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in matters of admission, employment, and housing, and in access to and participation in its education programs, services, and activities. No person shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, national or ethnic origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, marital status, religion, creed, or disability.

An associate for Copley Equity Partners in Boston, Wills Hutras ’20 talks about why the Global Commerce major was a great fit for his career.

A prestigious summer program gives Cynthia Guerrero ‘22 the knowledge and networks to achieve her goals.

Lucy Carlisle ’20 launched her own business after graduating. She started years earlier with three internships and a opportunity-packed college career.

International Studies major Khalil Bentley ’20 has been awarded a prestigious Thomas R. Pickering Foreign Affairs Graduate Fellowship.

Musical composer Bryan Blaskie ’09 shares his thoughts about the bright lights of Broadway and why getting a bad grade can actually be a good thing.

Philosophy major Rob Moore ’12 is the principal for Scioto Analysis, a public policy analysis firm based in Columbus, Ohio.

Bloomberg Terminals give students access to real-time financial news and data — and help prepare them for careers in business and finance.

Where We Go

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Where We Go

Denison’s Black Student Union is one of the oldest and most influential clubs on campus. Chief Minister Heaven Wade ’21 shares her insights.

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Read online “Atomic Habits. How to Make Good Habits and Get Rid of Bad Habits, by James Clear – Litres

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The information contained in this book has been obtained from sources believed by the publisher to be reliable. However, in view of possible human or technical errors, the publisher cannot guarantee the absolute accuracy and completeness of the information provided and is not responsible for possible errors associated with the use of the book.

The publisher is not responsible for the availability of materials referenced in this book. At the time of preparing the book for publication, all links to Internet resources were valid.

Copyright © 2018 by James Clear 8 * * *

On the last day of my second year of high school, I was hit in the face with a baseball bat. When my classmate was swinging, the bat slipped out of his hand, flew in my direction and hit right between the eyes. I don’t remember the moment of impact.

The blow was so strong that the nose was broken in two places and acquired a horseshoe shape. In addition, I received a craniocerebral injury – a contusion of the soft tissues of the head and several cracks in the skull. Immediately after the stroke, I began to develop cerebral edema. Thus, in a fraction of a second, I had a broken nose, several cracks in the skull, and fractures of both eye sockets.

When I opened my eyes, I saw that people were running towards me to help me. Looking down, I noticed red spots on my clothes. One of my classmates tore off his T-shirt and handed it to me. I used it to stop the blood that gushed from my broken nose. Shocked and confused, I did not realize how seriously injured I had received.

My teacher put his arm around my shoulders and we started the long walk to the nurse’s office, across the field, down the hill, and finally entered the school. Someone’s hands supported me, not letting me fall. We were in no hurry and walked slowly. No one realized that there was not a minute to lose.

When we finally got to the nurse’s office, she started asking me questions.

– What year is it now?

– 1998, I answered. Actually it was 2002.

– Who is the President of the United States?

“Bill Clinton,” I said. The correct answer was George Bush Jr.

– What is your mother’s name?

“Uh… Mmm…” I stuttered. Ten seconds have passed. “Patty,” I said nonchalantly, trying to ignore the fact that it took me ten seconds to remember my own mother’s name.

This is the last question I remember. My body was unable to cope with the rapidly spreading cerebral edema, and I passed out even before the ambulance arrived. A few minutes later, I was carried out of the school building and taken to the local hospital.

Shortly after arriving at the hospital, my body stopped working. He struggled with basic functions such as swallowing and breathing. It was the first seizure that day. Then I completely stopped breathing. When the doctors put me on a ventilator, they concluded that the local hospital was not well equipped to treat such a severe case, and they called in a helicopter to take me to a larger hospital in Cincinnati.

I was wheeled out of the emergency room on a gurney and taken to a helipad across the road. The stroller rumbled along the uneven pavement, one of the nurses pushing it in front of her while the other manually controlled my every breath. My mother, who had rushed to the hospital a few minutes earlier, sat next to me in a helicopter. During the flight, she held my hand, but I did not regain consciousness and could not breathe on my own.

While my mother accompanied me on the flight, my father went home to look after my brother and sister and tell them the terrible news. He fought back tears as he explained to his sister that he would not be able to attend her eighth grade graduation that evening. The father took the brother and sister to relatives, got into the car and drove to Cincinnati to join the mother.

When the helicopter with us landed on the roof of the hospital, a team of about twenty doctors and nurses was already waiting on the site, who took me to the trauma ward. By this point, the cerebral edema had become so severe that I had several post-traumatic seizures. Broken bones needed to be fixed, but in my condition, any surgical intervention was contraindicated. After another seizure—the third that day—I was put into an induced coma and still connected to a ventilator.

Parents have been to this hospital before. Ten years earlier, they had been in this building on the ground floor when my three-year-old sister was diagnosed with leukemia. I was five years old at the time, and my brother had just turned six months old. Two and a half years later, after several sessions of chemotherapy, lumbar punctures, and multiple trephine biopsies, my little sister finally left the hospital, happy, healthy, and cancer free. And now, after ten years of a quiet life, my parents are again in the same place, but with a different child.

After I was put into a coma, the hospital called in a priest and a social worker to comfort my parents. It was the same priest who had spoken to them that evening ten years ago when they found out my sister had cancer.

When day turned into night, my life was supported only by appliances. The parents slept restlessly in the hospital bed, now falling asleep from exhaustion, now waking up from the anxiety that ate them. Mom later told me that it was one of the worst nights of her life.

My recovery

Fortunately, the next morning my respiratory function was restored, and the doctors decided to bring me out of an artificial coma. When I came to, I discovered that I had lost my sense of smell. As a test, one of the nurses asked me to exhale sharply through my nose and sniff a carton of open apple juice. My sense of smell returned, but – to the amazement of everyone around – a sharp exhalation through the nose caused the air to go through the cracks in the eye sockets and practically pushed out my left eye. The eyeball protruded from the socket and was held in place only by the eyelid and the optic nerve that connects the eye to the brain.

The ophthalmologist said that the eye would gradually return to its place as air was released from the socket, but he could not say exactly how long this would take. The surgery was scheduled a week later, and during this time I had to recover a bit. I looked like I had been unsuccessful in a boxing match, but I was allowed to leave the hospital. I returned home with a broken nose, half a dozen facial fractures, and a protruding left eye.

The following months were very difficult. I felt like everything in my life was on pause. For several weeks I had double vision; I literally couldn’t concentrate on anything. In the end, the eye returned to its place, but this process took more than a month. Due to seizures and vision problems, he was able to drive a car again only after eight months. In physical therapy, I learned basic movements, such as walking in a straight line. I was determined not to let the injury bring me down, but there were many situations along the way to rehab where I felt hopeless and desperate.

The painful realization of how many challenges I still had to overcome came a year later when I returned to the baseball field. Baseball has always been a very important part of my life. My father played in Minor League Baseball for the St. Louis Cardinals, and I also dreamed of playing professionally. After months of rehab, there was nothing I wanted more than a return to baseball.

But the return was far from easy. When the season started, I was the only junior to be kicked off the college baseball team. I was sent to the junior team, where those who were in their second year of study played. I’ve been playing baseball since I was four years old, and for someone who has devoted so much time and effort to the sport, being kicked off the team was humiliating. I remember very well the day it happened. I sat in the car, crying and trying in vain to find a song on the radio that would at least slightly improve my mood.

After a year of self-doubt and self-doubt, I was finally able to join the alumni team, but rarely took to the field. In total, I played eleven innings with this team, which is a little more than one full game.

Despite not having a brilliant career in the high school team, I still believed that I could become a great player. And I realized that the only person who could achieve positive changes was myself. The turning point came two years after my injury, when I entered Denison University. It was the beginning of a new life, and college was where I first discovered the amazing power of small habits.

How I learned about habits

Going to college was one of the best decisions of my life. I got a place on the baseball team and, despite being at the bottom of the list as a rookie, I was happy. Despite the difficulties of my high school years, I was still able to become a member of the college sports team.

Anyway, I wasn’t going to start a full-time baseball team for the foreseeable future, so I focused on getting my life in order. My classmates stayed up late and spent a lot of time playing video games; I, on the other hand, developed healthy sleep habits and went to bed early every night. Being in a sleazy student dorm environment, I paid special attention to keeping the room clean and tidy. These habit changes were minimal, but they gave me a sense of control over my life. I regained a sense of confidence. And this growing self-confidence extended to my studies – I improved my habits in this area as well and was able to achieve the highest grades at the end of the first year of study.

A habit is a behavior or action that is repeated regularly, and in most cases automatically. As I progressed through each semester, I accumulated small but persistent habits that eventually led to results that I didn’t even dare to dream of at the beginning of my studies. For example, for the first time in my life, I got into the habit of lifting barbells several times a week, and over the following years I gained significant weight, going from a feather-light young man weighing 77 kg to an athletic man weighing 90 kg (at six feet and four inches – 193 cm).

When my second season came around, I was the top pitcher. By the beginning of my third year, I was chosen as the team captain, and at the end of the season I was selected to play in the national team. But in general, my new habits in the field of sleep, study and strength training began to bear real fruit only in the last year of training.

Six years after I was hit in the face with a baseball bat, hospitalized and induced into an induced coma, I was hailed as the top male athlete at Denison University and made a player on the ESPN American Collegiate Team, an honor bestowed on just 33 players nationwide. By the time I graduated, I was listed in the college record book in eight different categories. In the same year, I was awarded the university’s highest award, the rector’s medal.

I hope readers will forgive me if my story seems conceited to them. To be honest, there were no legendary or historical achievements in my sports career. I never became a professional player. Nevertheless, looking back on those years, I think that I have achieved a very important result, I have revealed my potential. And I am confident that the concept presented in this book will help my readers discover theirs as well.

We face challenges throughout our lives. The injury was such a challenge for me, and the experience of rehabilitation was the most important lesson: I realized that changes that at first glance seem unimportant and insignificant can lead to impressive results if you stick to certain habits for a long time. We all experience setbacks and relapses, but in the long run, the quality of our lives depends on the quality of our habits. Keeping habits, you will achieve stable results. But if you change them for the better, endless possibilities will open up before you.

Perhaps there are people who can make incredible progress in one day. But personally I don’t know such people, and I’m certainly not one of them. There wasn’t a single turning point in my journey from induced coma to being a player on an American varsity team; there were many such moments. It was a gradual evolution, a long series of small victories and tiny achievements. The only way to make progress—and my only choice—was a strategy of small steps. And I adopted the same strategy a few years later when I started my own business and started working on this book.

How and why I wrote this book

In November 2012, I started publishing articles on jamesclear.com. For many years I have been taking notes on my experiments with habits and finally felt ready to share some of the results with other people. I started by posting a new article every Monday and Thursday. Within a few months, this simple habit led to my first thousand subscribers, and by the end of 2013 there were more than thirty thousand people.

In 2014, the number of subscribers exceeded 100 thousand, making it one of the fastest growing resources on the Web. I felt like an impostor when I started blogging two years earlier, but now I’m slowly becoming known as an expert on habits, a new quality that on the one hand makes me feel pleasantly excited, but, on the other hand, creates a certain discomfort for me. I never considered myself a true expert on the subject, rather someone who experimented with readers.

In 2015, I reached two hundred thousand subscribers, and I signed a contract with Penguin Random House to start work on the book you are reading now. Along with my audience, my opportunities grew and business connections expanded. Increasingly, I’ve been asked to speak at major companies about the science of habit formation, behavior change, and continuous improvement. I have made presentations at conferences in the US and Europe.

In 2016, my articles began to be published regularly in such well-known media as Time, Entrepreneur and Forbes. Incredibly, more than eight million people read my publications in a year. Coaches in the National Football League, National Basketball Association, and Major League Baseball began reading my articles and sharing my observations with their teams.

In early 2017, I launched a new project, the Habits Academy, which has become the leading learning platform for companies and individuals interested in building better habits in life and work ^[1] . Fortune Global 500 companies and emerging startups have begun enrolling their leaders and training staff in the Academy. Altogether, more than 10,000 executives, managers, coaches, and educators have graduated, and working with them has given me a wealth of information about how much effort it takes to make habits work in real life.

Now that I am finishing this book in 2018, jamesclear. com has millions of visitors a month and my weekly mailing list has over five hundred thousand subscribers; this number far exceeds my expectations. When I started this project, I did not dare to dream of such a thing.

Why this book is useful

Entrepreneur and investor Naval Ravikant said, “In order to write a great book, you must first become one yourself.” Initially, I was inspired by the ideas that were later presented in this book, because I was convinced of their correctness from my own experience. I had to trust small habits to rehab after an injury, get results in the gym, be a great baseball player, become a writer, create a successful business, and just become an adult and responsible person. Little habits have helped me reach my potential; since you are reading this book, I assume that you also want to realize your potential.

In the following pages, I will share with you a step-by-step plan for building better habits—not for a week or a month, but for a lifetime. While everything here has a scientific basis, this book is not an academic study; it’s more of a work guide. First of all, you will receive the necessary knowledge and practical advice on how to form and change habits, and in an understandable and accessible form.

The scientific disciplines I referred to – biology, neurology, philosophy, psychology, and others – have been around for many years. In essence, I offer my readers a synthesis of the best ideas that scientists formulated years ago and the most important discoveries made in recent years. It seems to me that my contribution lies in the fact that I chose the most significant ideas and combined them for the most effective application in practice. All the wise ideas you will find in this book are due to my predecessors. All stupid things can be considered my mistakes.

This book is based on my four-stage model of habits—stimulus, desire, response, and reward—and the four laws of behavior change that follow from those four stages. Readers with specialized knowledge of psychology may be familiar with some of these terms from the theory of operant conditioning; These terms were first proposed by B. F. Skinner in the 1930s and have become widely known relatively recently in the combination “signal-routine-reward” thanks to the book “The Power of Habit” by Charles Duhigg.

Behavioral scientists, including Skinner, understood that if you offer the right reward or punishment, you can make a person behave in a certain way. However, while Skinner’s model was excellent at explaining how external stimuli affect behavior, it lacked a compelling explanation of how thoughts, feelings, and beliefs influence behavior. Internal states – moods and emotions – also play a significant role. In recent decades, scientists have begun to recognize the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behavior. In this book, we will focus on the results of these studies.

In general, I offer readers an integrated model of cognitive and behavioral research. I believe that this is one of the first models of human behavior that equally takes into account the impact on habits of external stimuli and internal experiences. Although the presentation is relatively informal, I am convinced that the details—and the ways in which the Four Laws of Behavior Change are applied—will offer readers an entirely new perspective on habits.

Human behavior is constantly changing: from situation to situation, from moment to moment, from second to second. But this book is primarily about what remains unchanged. These are the foundations of human behavior. Timeless principles you can rely on for the long term. Ideas on the basis of which you can develop a business, start a family, build your life. There is no one right way to form the best habits, but this book describes the best approach I know of – an approach that will work no matter where you start from and what you want to change. The strategy that I propose is suitable for anyone who seeks gradual self-improvement, whether your goals are primarily related to health, money, personal effectiveness, relationships, or all of the above. As long as the focus remains on behavior change, this book will be your guide to action.

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