Dear Annie,  

It’s time for school again, and I really want to try to get my grades up this year. I can usually understand most of the information in my textbooks, but I just can’t seem to remember it all. Also, when I try to study for a test, it seems like I just read the material again and again, but when I actually take the exam, I still can’t think of the information. Help! Do you have any tips on how to get better grades on assignments and tests? 

Sincerely,

Worried in the Classroom

 
Dear Worried,
Almost everyone, even the best students, could improve their study habits, and it is great you are making the effort. Here are a few tips that may help you earn better grades:

  1. The due date is not the do date. If you put off your work until the day before it is due, it is almost guaranteed that you will not do your absolute best on it. Give yourself plenty of time to complete a project. You’ll be more relaxed, and your work quality will be better.
  2. Environment can be everything. You need to have a quiet place where you can study without interruptions. If you study for 2 hours, but get distracted every few minutes, your studying will not be nearly as effective as if you sit down and study for an hour without any interruptions.
  3. Music can make the mood. For many people, music is key to helping them study. It helps them think and retain more information. If you have found a quiet place to study, try putting on some slow, classical music. For fans of rockier music, it has its place, but it will rarely help you study.
  4. Schedule it! If you have a big test coming up, make sure that you plan for time to study, and do not try to squeeze it in at the last minute. This is probably one of the simplest yet most important study tips EVER.
  5. Go to bed. Most high school students tend to think that the later they can stay up, the better. When it comes to getting excellent scores on tests and assignments, however, this simply is not the case. Undoubtedly, you have heard the quote, “Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise.” (Benjamin Franklin) That quote is so true!! You’ll study much better after a good night’s sleep.

I hope these tips help you as you attempt to improve your study habits.  Now, hit the books!