Getting better grades can be a very stressful objective, especially if you already feel weighed down with the assignments, new concepts you’re learning, and the constant barrage of tests and quizzes being thrown your way. Don’t worry though, because below you will find a few tips on how to get the grades you want through simple yet effective steps that will change your whole outlook on school and studying.
Get the Right Motivation
Being motivated is a large part of being able to get better grades. This is because motivation will push you toward doing all the work necessary to get those grades you desire. The right motivation is one that pushes you toward your goal without ruining something else. For example, you might get yourself a new notebook or a couple of new pens as motivation to start studying. Promise yourself a reward for completing a certain amount of work to create a small goal for yourself, other than good grades.
Get the Tools You Need
You cannot expect to get better grades when you are not using the necessary tools you need to achieve this. Try looking for different applications, programs, and websites that could help you with your studies. If you need to do some significant figure calculations but are having some issues doing so on your own, you can look for an online calculator that will help you out. If you do not know what a significant figure is, then you can visit here for more information. Basically, look for any tool or software that can make the process easier for you.
Pay Attention During Class
Believe it or not, one of the most important things to do is listen to what is being said during class. The notion that you can just find out what was said in class based on someone else’s notes, or by using your books alone often does not work, if at all. Being attentive when you are receiving new information for the first time will ensure the information sticks much better. If you shut down during class, you will probably shut down whenever you try to understand the information on your own as well. Always show up to class on time and focus.
Take Notes
Your notes should be your main go-to for studying. While you might have different resources and handouts given to you by your teachers, writing your notes, which focus on the important information you need to remember is much better. Taking notes is easy if done correctly. When writing notes, make sure that your handwriting is clear and that the notes are split into identifiable sections, using headings and subheadings if possible. This step needs to be done in class so that there is no risk of you forgetting any of the information you have just learned.
Rewrite Your Notes
After the session is over, maybe a couple of days later, you need to rewrite your notes again. This will refresh your memory and will be a part of your studying regimen. This time, you can have your notes more organized. You can be more creative this time around. Use different colored pens, get the artist in you out, and draw doodles to make your notes look more appealing to you when you start using them for revision.
Stay Focused and Avoid Distractions
Distractions are the bane of a student’s life. There are so many of them, especially with all the technology we have around. The best way to deal with all of these distractions is to avoid them. You should not study in a place where you will be distracted. So, for example, instead of studying in bed, where you are prone to falling asleep, sit at a desk. Instead of browsing social media sites for hours on end, put your phone away, and log off these apps or sites for the duration of your studying.
Take Breaks
You cannot expect to spend all day and night studying. You need to have breaks scheduled to ensure your mind does not shut down. You need to have a ratio between studying and taking a break. For example, you can take a twenty-five-minute break for every sixty or 90 minutes of studying. If you are having issues trying to stick to your study/break schedule, try setting alarms, or having a family member or friend to keep you on track.
With these tips in mind, you will be noticing a clear difference in your grades in no time. Staying on track and remaining consistent with your new studying habits will ensure you have better grades in all your classes. If you slip up every once in a while, it doesn’t mean you can’t get back on track, so do not use your setback as an excuse to slack off. Just as your grades can be better with these tips, they can fall back down if you start ignoring them.