The habits are not intended to be a comprehensive list of attributes and characteristics required for distance learner success; instead they serve as beacons or metaphors for promoting greater awareness of, and personal responsibility for, some of the factors known to influence readiness and capability to undertake tertiary study by distance. In this sense, the purpose of this Guide is to invite current and prospective distance learners to consider their own habits as they think about, make choices, undertake or reflect on progress and their goals and learning trajectory as a distance learner.