The significance of study method inventories in higher education is explored. A brief history of study skills inventories is presented along with justifications for using a study method approach. Research indicates the student most likely to be more successful than others may exhibit better study habits and adapt more easily to academic norms and requirements of the college. Superior students are more self-confident concerning ability and have the personality characteristics for successful independent study. One might conclude that a study habits inventory can provide information about students not indicated by ability measures. Study method inventories may be identifying a proclivity for academic by tapping motivational traits. (Author/RC)