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How to Get Good Grades on Your Essay: 15 Ways to Get Over Bad Scores

Get Good Grades on Your Essay

Struggling with low essay grades? Been there. Let’s explore 15 game-changing ways to turn those bad scores around.

I’ve got you covered, from unlocking your creativity to mastering the art of editing. Together, we’ll unravel the secrets to crafting top-notch essays and securing the grades you deserve.

Are you ready to transform your essay game? Let’s dive in!

1. Understand the Essay Grading Criteria

I always delve into the intricacies of grading criteria to boost your essay grades. I start by comprehending the rubric and unraveling the specific expectations set forth.

I dive into the components crucial for evaluation—content, structure, and style—gaining insights into what makes a stellar essay.

Equally significant is adhering to the requirements—mind the word count, adhere to prescribed formats, and employ meticulous citation methods.

This understanding serves as the compass guiding your essay toward excellence, ensuring it aligns with the standards outlined by grading rubrics.

Through this awareness, you pave the way for a well-crafted, top-tier essay that resonates with academic excellence.

2. Choose the Right Essay Topic

Embarking on an essay journey begins with choosing the right topic, a process that demands thoughtful consideration.

I opt for a subject that not only intrigues you but also holds relevance to the context of your assignment.

I align your topic with your strengths, leveraging areas where your knowledge and passion converge. I take into account my audience and meticulously adhere to assignment guidelines.

After selecting a compelling and fitting topic, you set the stage for an engaging and well-executed essay , showcasing your prowess and ensuring resonance with both your interests and the requirements of the task at hand.

3. Research and Gather Information

The research phase of my essay journey involves employing effective strategies for gathering information .

I use both online and offline sources, ensuring a comprehensive exploration of your chosen topic.

I evaluate sources meticulously, considering their credibility and relevance to my essay’s context.

As I delve into the wealth of information available, I take thorough notes and employ effective organizational methods.

Normally, this meticulous approach to research lays the foundation for a well-informed and substantiated essay, providing the necessary depth and authority to my written work.

4. Craft a Strong Thesis Statement

Formulating a robust thesis statement is pivotal to essay success. I articulate a clear and focused argument that serves as the guiding beacon throughout your essay.

I ensure the thesis encapsulates the essence of my entire piece, providing direction to my narrative.

I elevate its impact by making the statement provocative or thoughtful, inviting readers to delve deeper into your essay’s exploration.

Typically, this intentional crafting of the thesis lays the groundwork for a compelling and purposeful essay that resonates with readers and fulfills the objective of your writing.

I prefer composing a compelling introduction by employing engaging hooks or anecdotes that captivate your audience from the outset.

I clearly articulate the essay’s purpose and thesis, setting a strong foundation for my narrative.

I offer necessary context and background information to orient readers and provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the essay’s subject matter.

Such an introduction not only grabs attention but also establishes a framework for the ensuing exploration, ensuring readers are invested and prepared for the journey ahead in my well-crafted essay.

5. Develop Coherent Body Paragraphs

Constructing coherent body paragraphs involves implementing clear topic sentences that act as guiding beacons for each paragraph.

I support my arguments with well-chosen evidence and examples, fostering a robust foundation for my essay.

I go beyond mere presentation and delve into the analysis and interpretation of evidence, providing depth and nuance to your assertions.

I ensure that each paragraph contributes meaningfully to the overall narrative, enhancing the cohesion and persuasiveness of your essay.

6. Mastering the Art of Analysis and Critical Thinking

Mastering the art of analysis and critical thinking transcends mere description, delving into the realms of “why” and “how.”

I elevate your essay by showcasing a profound understanding through critical analysis, unraveling layers of meaning.

I integrate diverse perspectives and, when appropriate, counterarguments to demonstrate a nuanced grasp of the subject. This depth of thought not only enriches your essay but also positions you as a thoughtful and discerning writer.

I embrace the complexity inherent in your topic, inviting readers to engage with my ideas at a profound level.

7. Effective Use of Evidence and Examples

I thoughtfully selected pertinent and persuasive evidence that aligns with your thesis. I ensure meticulous citation, encompassing quotes, statistics, and examples, adhering to the appropriate referencing style.

The art lies not just in presenting evidence but in seamlessly connecting it back to my thesis, reinforcing the overarching narrative.

Still, such measures ensure a cohesive and compelling structure, reinforcing your essay’s central message with robust supporting materials.

8. Craft a Strong Conclusion

I summarize key points judiciously, avoiding mere repetition. Reinforce your thesis and main arguments, emphasizing their significance.

I elevate your conclusion with a thoughtful or provocative closing statement that resonates with the essay’s essence. This final paragraph should leave a lasting impression, providing closure while inviting reflection.

After synthesizing the essay’s core elements, your conclusion seals the narrative with impact, ensuring your reader departs with a sense of fulfillment and insight.

9. Refining Your Writing Style

Here is the thing: I employ clear and concise language to enhance readability. I vary sentence structures for a smooth, engaging flow.

I weed out wordiness and redundancy to maintain precision and impact. A judicious blend of simplicity and sophistication in my expression elevates your writing.

I strive for a balance that ensures your ideas shine without unnecessary complexity. Remember, a polished writing style enhances the overall quality of your essay, captivating readers and allowing my content to shine through with clarity and eloquence.

10. Keen Editing and Proofreading of your Essay

Meticulous editing and proofreading are paramount to elevating your essay. I scrutinize for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors, ensuring precision.

I read my essay aloud, which enhances clarity and coherence, identifying nuances otherwise overlooked.

I solicit constructive feedback from peers or mentors, incorporating valuable insights. The iterative process of revision refines your work, cultivating a polished, error-free final draft.

I embrace this crucial step to present an impeccable essay where each word contributes to the overall impact, fostering a favorable impression of your writing prowess.

11. Structural and Formatting Considerations

I consider structural and formatting aspects to enhance my essay. I maintain consistency in formatting, including font and margins, fostering a professional appearance.

I stick to the prescribed citation style, whether APA, MLA, or others, reinforcing academic integrity.

I finalize the title thoughtfully, ensuring it encapsulates the essence of my essay. These details, often underestimated, contribute significantly to the overall presentation and coherence of my work, showcasing my commitment to precision and attention to detail.

I pay heed to these nuances elevates the quality of my essay, reflecting a conscientious approach to academic writing.

12. Time Management and Revision Strategies

I embrace the power of multiple drafts; revisions refine and elevate my work. I recognize when external input is beneficial, seeking feedback for a fresh perspective.

Efficient time utilization, coupled with a commitment to revision and openness to feedback, contributes significantly to essay excellence.

I balance these elements fosters a comprehensive approach to essay crafting, demonstrating diligence and a desire for continuous improvement in your writing endeavors.

13. Handling Essay Critique and Feedback

I view feedback as a tool for improvement, not as a critique. Implement suggestions effectively, addressing weaknesses and enhancing strengths.

I learn from mistakes and evolve my writing style, which contributes to continuous improvement. It’s a dynamic process—each critique is an opportunity to refine my skills.

A positive approach to feedback fosters resilience and a commitment to growth in your essay-writing endeavors.

14. Staying Motivated and Focused

I set realistic goals and expectations to sustain motivation in essay writing. I break down tasks into manageable steps, aligning them with my capabilities and deadlines.

Finding inspiration can involve exploring diverse sources, discussing ideas, or seeking creative stimuli.

Managing stress and procrastination requires effective time management strategies and recognizing personal triggers.

I implement self-care practices, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle contributes to a focused mindset.

Finally, I navigate challenges with a proactive approach, I foster a sustainable motivation that propels my essay writing journey.

15. Celebrating Success and Improvement

I take time to acknowledge my achievements and progress in essay writing. I celebrate milestones, whether they’re completing a challenging assignment or refining my writing style.

I recognize personal growth in writing skills, identifying areas where I’ve improved. I use feedback as a valuable tool to fuel future success, turning constructive criticism into opportunities for enhancement.

After celebrating success and embracing a growth mindset, you will foster a positive relationship with your writing journey, motivating continued improvement and excellence.

Lastly, overcoming bad scores and achieving excellence in essay writing involves understanding grading criteria, choosing engaging topics, and refining your writing skills. Embrace critique, stay focused, and celebrate progress.

You will not only elevate your grades but also cultivate a fulfilling and successful writing journey by incorporating these strategies.

Josh Jasen or JJ as we fondly call him, is a senior academic editor at Grade Bees in charge of the writing department. When not managing complex essays and academic writing tasks, Josh is busy advising students on how to pass assignments. In his spare time, he loves playing football or walking with his dog around the park.

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Essay Papers Writing Online

A comprehensive guide to essay writing.

Essay writing is a crucial skill that students need to master in order to succeed academically. Whether you’re a high school student working on a history paper or a college student tackling a critical analysis essay, having a solid understanding of the essay writing process is essential.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the essential tips and tricks that will help you improve your essay writing skills. From generating ideas and organizing your thoughts to crafting a strong thesis statement and polishing your final draft, we’ve got you covered.

Not only that, but we’ll also provide you with useful templates that you can use as a framework for your essays. These templates will help you structure your writing, stay focused on your main argument, and ensure that your essay flows smoothly from one point to the next.

The Ultimate Essay Writing Guides

Essay writing can be a challenging task for many students, but with the right guidance and tips, you can improve your writing skills and produce high-quality essays. In this ultimate guide, we will provide you with valuable advice, tricks, and templates to help you excel in your essay writing endeavors.

1. Understand the Prompt: Before you start writing your essay, make sure you fully understand the prompt or question. Analyze the requirements and key points that need to be addressed in your essay.

2. Create an Outline: Organize your ideas and thoughts by creating a detailed outline for your essay. This will help you structure your arguments and ensure a logical flow of information.

3. Research Thoroughly: Conduct extensive research on your topic to gather relevant information and evidence to support your arguments. Use credible sources and cite them properly in your essay.

4. Write Clearly and Concisely: Avoid using jargon or complex language in your essay. Write in a clear and concise manner to convey your ideas effectively to the reader.

5. Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your essay, make sure to proofread and edit it carefully. Check for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and ensure that your essay flows cohesively.

By following these ultimate essay writing guides, you can enhance your writing skills and produce outstanding essays that will impress your instructors and peers. Practice regularly and seek feedback to continuously improve your writing abilities.

Tips for Crafting an A+ Essay

1. Understand the Assignment: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the assignment guidelines and requirements. If you have any doubts, clarify them with your instructor.

2. Conduct Thorough Research: Gather relevant sources and information to support your arguments. Make sure to cite your sources properly and use credible sources.

3. Create a Strong Thesis Statement: Your thesis statement should clearly outline the main point of your essay and guide your readers on what to expect.

4. Organize Your Ideas: Create an outline to organize your thoughts and ensure a logical flow of ideas in your essay.

5. Write Clearly and Concisely: Use clear, concise language and avoid unnecessary jargon or complex sentences. Be direct and to the point.

6. Revise and Edit: Always proofread your essay for grammar and spelling errors. Revise your work to ensure coherence and clarity.

7. Seek Feedback: Ask a peer or instructor to review your essay and provide constructive feedback for improvement.

8. Use Proper Formatting: Follow the formatting guidelines provided by your instructor, such as font size, margins, and citation style.

9. Stay Focused: Keep your essay focused on the main topic and avoid going off on tangents. Stick to your thesis statement.

10. Practice, Practice, Practice: The more you practice writing essays, the better you will get at it. Keep practicing and refining your writing skills.

Tricks to Improve Your Writing Skills

Improving your writing skills can be a challenging but rewarding process. Here are some tricks to help you become a better writer:

1. Read widely: Reading a variety of genres and styles can help you develop your own voice and writing style.

2. Practice regularly: The more you write, the better you will become. Set aside time each day to practice writing.

3. Get feedback: Share your writing with others and ask for constructive criticism. Feedback can help you identify areas for improvement.

4. Study grammar and punctuation: Good writing requires a solid understanding of grammar and punctuation rules. Take the time to study and practice these essential skills.

5. Edit and revise: Writing is a process, and editing is an important part of that process. Take the time to edit and revise your work to improve clarity and coherence.

6. Experiment with different writing techniques: Try experimenting with different writing techniques, such as using metaphors, similes, or descriptive language, to enhance your writing.

7. Stay inspired: Find inspiration in the world around you. Whether it’s nature, art, or literature, draw inspiration from your surroundings to fuel your writing.

By following these tricks and practicing regularly, you can improve your writing skills and become a more confident and effective writer.

Step-by-Step Essay Writing Templates

When it comes to writing an essay, having a clear and structured template can be incredibly helpful. Here are some step-by-step essay writing templates that you can use to guide you through the process:

Introduction: Start your essay with a hook to grab the reader’s attention. Provide some background information on the topic and end with a thesis statement that outlines the main argument of your essay.
Body Paragraphs: Each body paragraph should focus on a single point that supports your thesis. Start with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph, provide evidence to support your point, and then analyze the evidence to show how it relates back to your thesis.
Conclusion: Summarize the main points of your essay and restate your thesis in a new way. Avoid introducing new information in the conclusion and instead focus on tying together all the points you have made throughout the essay.

Expert Advice for Writing Top-Notch Essays

When it comes to writing a top-notch essay, it’s essential to follow expert advice to ensure your work stands out. Here are some key tips to help you elevate your writing:

1. Start with a strong thesis statement that clearly outlines your main argument.

2. Conduct thorough research to support your points with credible sources.

3. Organize your thoughts logically and ensure your essay flows smoothly from one point to the next.

4. Use a variety of sentence structures and vocabulary to keep your writing engaging.

5. Proofread and edit your essay carefully to eliminate errors and refine your arguments.

By following these expert tips, you can take your essay writing skills to the next level and produce work that is both informative and compelling.

Resources to Enhance Your Essay Writing Process

When it comes to improving your essay writing skills, there are a variety of resources available to help you enhance your process. Here are some valuable resources that can aid you in becoming a more effective and efficient writer:

Writing Guides: There are countless writing guides and books that offer tips, tricks, and strategies for improving your writing skills. Whether you’re looking to enhance your grammar, structure, or argumentation, these guides can provide valuable insights.
Online Writing Communities: Joining online writing communities can be a great way to connect with other writers, receive feedback on your work, and engage in writing challenges and prompts. Websites like Writing.com and Wattpad are popular platforms for writers to share their work and receive critiques.
Writing Workshops and Courses: Participating in writing workshops and courses can help you hone your craft and develop your writing skills. Whether you prefer in-person workshops or online courses, there are many options available to suit your needs and schedule.
Writing Apps and Tools: Utilizing writing apps and tools can streamline your writing process and help you stay organized. Tools like Grammarly can assist with grammar and spelling checks, while apps like Scrivener can help you organize your research and ideas.
Libraries and Writing Centers: Visiting your local library or university writing center can provide access to valuable resources, such as writing guides, research materials, and writing tutors who can offer personalized feedback and support.

By taking advantage of these resources, you can enhance your essay writing process and become a more skilled and confident writer.

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How to Achieve Higher Essay Grades (In Just Ten Minutes)

Achieving higher essay grades may seem like a bit of a mystery.

You need to: - understand the topic/question - plan a coherent answer - conduct great research - write clear logical arguments - apply good examples - write in an academic, professional style - think critically - create powerful introductions and conclusions - demonstrate good editing and proofreading skills - reference/cite accurately…

It IS possible to learn and master all of these skills, but just not at once, and not all in one blog post or training.

What I can teach you is ONE thing you can do right now, that only takes ten minutes, to start yourself on the road to higher essay grades. If you know you want to achieve better marks, but you’re not sure how, this is your best starting point.

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Study Session Planner

Create your own simple, productive study plan in just a few minutes , so you can boost your motivation and focus, get more done in less time , and make faster progress towards your dream university grades .

Learn my method and repeat it with every essay and you should see your marks rise with every essay (to a point obviously!).

You should always be aiming to improve in your studies. Whether that’s indirectly by enhancing your study skills, or by making direct increases in your marks and grades. The way to do this is through continuous improvement.

‘Practice the philosophy of continuous improvement. Get a little better every single day’ - Brian Tracy

Learning from feedback is the first step and is a vital skill all students need to develop.

I study with the Open University where essays are returned with tutor feedback. This feedback normally includes comments on what I did right, remarks on what I didn’t do so well, and suggestions for how I can improve.

Some critiques I’ve had in the past are: ‘Your referencing is incorrect. Look at the module handbook for the rules’ ‘You seem to lose your focus here and end up adding in some irrelevant points’ ‘You wasted words on details and could have gone deeper’ ‘You didn’t refer back to the module material enough. Try to back up all of your points with theory and evidence.’

Now, some of those make for uncomfortable reading right? It’s never easy to receive negative feedback. Even if you know it’s good for you. It can feel like a slap in the face to read negative comments when you were actually pretty happy with what you submitted.

But here’s the difference between a low grade and high grades student. A low grade student will glance at feedback and put it aside, or read it, feel upset or angry and ignore it. A low grade student will miss easy opportunities to achieve higher essay grades and will end up making the same silly mistakes multiple times.

On the other hand, a high grade student uses their feedback as an opportunity to learn. They see the potential for higher essay grades in those comments and they pay attention to them – even if they don’t want to. With every essay they fix errors and make tweaks here and there; their study skills develop and their marks start to climb.

Receiving negative comments can make you feel like a failure. But remember this. A mistake is not a failure. A mistake is part of being human. But making the same mistake over and over when you have the capacity to change is a failure.

In one of my modules I was told early on that my referencing was incorrect. That was my mistake. But I didn’t want to hear the feedback so I ignored it. For the next three essays I lost marks every single time for my referencing. That was a failure. I finally took responsibility for my grades and spent a little time reading my feedback and learning how to reference properly. My next essay I got it right and my marks increased.

I hope you can now see the value in learning from feedback. But what if the feedback you get isn’t enough?

If your university doesn’t provide much feedback – ask for it.

Email or visit your tutor and tell them that you want to improve your grades with their help. Ask them for specific, tangible examples of where you lost marks and brainstorm with them some ideas for improving in those areas.

The worst thing that can happen is they say no when you ask for help, but I can’t imagine that would happen as it’s their job to support you. They probably don’t have time to help you develop those weaker areas, but they can point you in the right direction so you can do the work yourself.

Ok, so now I‘m going to share with you my method for learning from feedback to achieve higher essay grades.

7 steps to higher essay grades using your tutor feedback

1. Grab your marked essay and all tutor feedback.

2. Scan your feedback for positive comments from your tutor. Look for things you did RIGHT and note them down as a reminder to continue doing those things.

3. Next, look at your feedback and note down where you lost marks – what you didn’t do so well.

4. Then I want you to reflect on your own performance. First think of the things you did right in your essay e.g. ‘I spent time planning my essay before I started writing’ or, ‘I took really good notes so my essay writing was easier’. Next think of the negative points e.g. ‘I started writing too late so I didn’t have time to review my answer’ or ‘I misread part of the question so went off on a tangent and lost marks’. Note down these elements alongside your positive and negative tutor feedback.

5. For your negative points – think of action you can take improve these areas in preparation for higher essay grades next time.

6. File this sheet with your marked essay and guidance and use it as a checklist when you’re working on your next essay. You want to make sure you’re still doing the good things, and that you’ve taken action to resolve or improve the not-so-good things.

7. Pat yourself on the back and get the wine in in anticipation of higher essay grades in the future.

How to Study Like a First Class Student

If you’re curious about how to study like a First Class student and whether aiming for top grades is the right approach for you, this episode is your guide. I explore the benefits of adopting a First Class mindset and study habits, explaining why every student can benefit from aiming high, regardless of their current

This One Perspective Shift Will Make Your Studying Easier

In this week’s episode, I reveal a powerful perspective shift that can make your studying easier and transform your academic journey. Whether you’re juggling work, family, or both, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the pressure of achieving good grades. You might even find yourself confused by inconsistent results—feeling confident about an essay only to

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Writing Tips

How to Boost Your Grades: 6 Superb Essay Writing Tips

3-minute read
23rd August 2020

If you put everything you have into your essays yet still fall short of the grades you want, it might simply be a matter of refining your essay-writing technique . Luckily, there’s plenty you can do to earn a few extra marks. If you want to boost your grades, then, give these tips a try.

1. Master Time Management

If you start writing your essay the night before the deadline, it’s unlikely to end well. Make sure to set aside time for researching, writing a first draft, re-writing and editing. If you start planning as soon as the assignment is set, you should be able to write a great essay without having to rush!

2. Read Widely

When researching your essay, look beyond the set texts. It might be possible to write your whole essay based upon the course materials and lecture notes. However, if you want to ensure a good grade, you need to demonstrate your ability to conduct independent research.

3. Check the Marking Criteria

Marking criteria are issued by colleges as guidelines for academic staff when marking work. As such, they provide a breakdown of how marks are awarded. Checking the marking criteria for your course or school can therefore help you hone your essays.

4. Write Concisely

Less is often more in academic writing, as overly wordy essays can be difficult to follow. Being concise , on the other hand, will boost the clarity of your written work and make your arguments more persuasive.

5. Always Edit!

Finishing the first draft of an essay is not the same as finishing your essay, as you still need to edit what you’ve written.

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The first step here is to read everything back carefully, correcting typos and other errors. But editing is also an opportunity to look for passages that you could phrase more clearly or improve your arguments.

From a clarity point of view, things to keep an eye out for while editing include redundancy , convoluted sentences , and anything not strictly relevant to the point you’re making in your essay.

6. Double Check Everything!

Once you’ve written a first draft and edited ruthlessly, there’s still one thing to do before submitting your work: double check everything!

Having your work proofread professionally is obviously helpful, but even if you don’t you should print out your essay and read it through to look for any remaining issues. It’s vital to check your referencing at this point, because clearly citing sources can win you the last few marks required!

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12 Strategies to Writing the Perfect College Essay

College admission committees sift through thousands of college essays each year. Here’s how to make yours stand out.

Pamela Reynolds

When it comes to deciding who they will admit into their programs, colleges consider many criteria, including high school grades, extracurricular activities, and ACT and SAT scores. But in recent years, more colleges are no longer considering test scores.

Instead, many (including Harvard through 2026) are opting for “test-blind” admission policies that give more weight to other elements in a college application. This policy change is seen as fairer to students who don’t have the means or access to testing, or who suffer from test anxiety.

So, what does this mean for you?

Simply that your college essay, traditionally a requirement of any college application, is more important than ever.

A college essay is your unique opportunity to introduce yourself to admissions committees who must comb through thousands of applications each year. It is your chance to stand out as someone worthy of a seat in that classroom.

A well-written and thoughtful essay—reflecting who you are and what you believe—can go a long way to separating your application from the slew of forgettable ones that admissions officers read. Indeed, officers may rely on them even more now that many colleges are not considering test scores.

Below we’ll discuss a few strategies you can use to help your essay stand out from the pack. We’ll touch on how to start your essay, what you should write for your college essay, and elements that make for a great college essay.

Be Authentic

More than any other consideration, you should choose a topic or point of view that is consistent with who you truly are.

Readers can sense when writers are inauthentic.

Inauthenticity could mean the use of overly flowery language that no one would ever use in conversation, or it could mean choosing an inconsequential topic that reveals very little about who you are.

Use your own voice, sense of humor, and a natural way of speaking.

Whatever subject you choose, make sure it’s something that’s genuinely important to you and not a subject you’ve chosen just to impress. You can write about a specific experience, hobby, or personality quirk that illustrates your strengths, but also feel free to write about your weaknesses.

Honesty about traits, situations, or a childhood background that you are working to improve may resonate with the reader more strongly than a glib victory speech.

Grab the Reader From the Start

You’ll be competing with so many other applicants for an admission officer’s attention.

Therefore, start your essay with an opening sentence or paragraph that immediately seizes the imagination. This might be a bold statement, a thoughtful quote, a question you pose, or a descriptive scene.

Starting your essay in a powerful way with a clear thesis statement can often help you along in the writing process. If your task is to tell a good story, a bold beginning can be a natural prelude to getting there, serving as a roadmap, engaging the reader from the start, and presenting the purpose of your writing.

Focus on Deeper Themes

Some essay writers think they will impress committees by loading an essay with facts, figures, and descriptions of activities, like wins in sports or descriptions of volunteer work. But that’s not the point.

College admissions officers are interested in learning more about who you are as a person and what makes you tick.

They want to know what has brought you to this stage in life. They want to read about realizations you may have come to through adversity as well as your successes, not just about how many games you won while on the soccer team or how many people you served at a soup kitchen.

Let the reader know how winning the soccer game helped you develop as a person, friend, family member, or leader. Make a connection with your soup kitchen volunteerism and how it may have inspired your educational journey and future aspirations. What did you discover about yourself?

Show Don’t Tell

As you expand on whatever theme you’ve decided to explore in your essay, remember to show, don’t tell.

The most engaging writing “shows” by setting scenes and providing anecdotes, rather than just providing a list of accomplishments and activities.

Reciting a list of activities is also boring. An admissions officer will want to know about the arc of your emotional journey too.

Try Doing Something Different

If you want your essay to stand out, think about approaching your subject from an entirely new perspective. While many students might choose to write about their wins, for instance, what if you wrote an essay about what you learned from all your losses?

If you are an especially talented writer, you might play with the element of surprise by crafting an essay that leaves the response to a question to the very last sentence.

You may want to stay away from well-worn themes entirely, like a sports-related obstacle or success, volunteer stories, immigration stories, moving, a summary of personal achievements or overcoming obstacles.

However, such themes are popular for a reason. They represent the totality of most people’s lives coming out of high school. Therefore, it may be less important to stay away from these topics than to take a fresh approach.

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Write With the Reader in Mind

Writing for the reader means building a clear and logical argument in which one thought flows naturally from another.

Use transitions between paragraphs.

Think about any information you may have left out that the reader may need to know. Are there ideas you have included that do not help illustrate your theme?

Be sure you can answer questions such as: Does what you have written make sense? Is the essay organized? Does the opening grab the reader? Is there a strong ending? Have you given enough background information? Is it wordy?

Write Several Drafts

Set your essay aside for a few days and come back to it after you’ve had some time to forget what you’ve written. Often, you’ll discover you have a whole new perspective that enhances your ability to make revisions.

Start writing months before your essay is due to give yourself enough time to write multiple drafts. A good time to start could be as early as the summer before your senior year when homework and extracurricular activities take up less time.

Read It Aloud

Writer’s tip : Reading your essay aloud can instantly uncover passages that sound clumsy, long-winded, or false.

Don’t Repeat

If you’ve mentioned an activity, story, or anecdote in some other part of your application, don’t repeat it again in your essay.

Your essay should tell college admissions officers something new. Whatever you write in your essay should be in philosophical alignment with the rest of your application.

Also, be sure you’ve answered whatever question or prompt may have been posed to you at the outset.

Ask Others to Read Your Essay

Be sure the people you ask to read your essay represent different demographic groups—a teacher, a parent, even a younger sister or brother.

Ask each reader what they took from the essay and listen closely to what they have to say. If anyone expresses confusion, revise until the confusion is cleared up.

Pay Attention to Form

Although there are often no strict word limits for college essays, most essays are shorter rather than longer. Common App, which students can use to submit to multiple colleges, suggests that essays stay at about 650 words.

“While we won’t as a rule stop reading after 650 words, we cannot promise that an overly wordy essay will hold our attention for as long as you’d hoped it would,” the Common App website states.

In reviewing other technical aspects of your essay, be sure that the font is readable, that the margins are properly spaced, that any dialogue is set off properly, and that there is enough spacing at the top. Your essay should look clean and inviting to readers.

End Your Essay With a “Kicker”

In journalism, a kicker is the last punchy line, paragraph, or section that brings everything together.

It provides a lasting impression that leaves the reader satisfied and impressed by the points you have artfully woven throughout your piece.

So, here’s our kicker: Be concise and coherent, engage in honest self-reflection, and include vivid details and anecdotes that deftly illustrate your point.

While writing a fantastic essay may not guarantee you get selected, it can tip the balance in your favor if admissions officers are considering a candidate with a similar GPA and background.

Write, revise, revise again, and good luck!

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About the Author

Pamela Reynolds is a Boston-area feature writer and editor whose work appears in numerous publications. She is the author of “Revamp: A Memoir of Travel and Obsessive Renovation.”

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College essay

How to Write a College Essay | A Complete Guide & Examples

The college essay can make or break your application. It’s your chance to provide personal context, communicate your values and qualities, and set yourself apart from other students.

A standout essay has a few key ingredients:

A unique, personal topic
A compelling, well-structured narrative
A clear, creative writing style
Evidence of self-reflection and insight

To achieve this, it’s crucial to give yourself enough time for brainstorming, writing, revision, and feedback.

In this comprehensive guide, we walk you through every step in the process of writing a college admissions essay.

Why do you need a standout essay, start organizing early, choose a unique topic, outline your essay, start with a memorable introduction, write like an artist, craft a strong conclusion, revise and receive feedback, frequently asked questions.

While most of your application lists your academic achievements, your college admissions essay is your opportunity to share who you are and why you’d be a good addition to the university.

Your college admissions essay accounts for about 25% of your application’s total weight一and may account for even more with some colleges making the SAT and ACT tests optional. The college admissions essay may be the deciding factor in your application, especially for competitive schools where most applicants have exceptional grades, test scores, and extracurriculars.

What do colleges look for in an essay?

Admissions officers want to understand your background, personality, and values to get a fuller picture of you beyond your test scores and grades. Here’s what colleges look for in an essay :

Demonstrated values and qualities
Vulnerability and authenticity
Self-reflection and insight
Creative, clear, and concise writing skills

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

It’s a good idea to start organizing your college application timeline in the summer of your junior year to make your application process easier. This will give you ample time for essay brainstorming, writing, revision, and feedback.

While timelines will vary for each student, aim to spend at least 1–3 weeks brainstorming and writing your first draft and at least 2–4 weeks revising across multiple drafts. Remember to leave enough time for breaks in between each writing and editing stage.

Create an essay tracker sheet

If you’re applying to multiple schools, you will have to juggle writing several essays for each one. We recommend using an essay tracker spreadsheet to help you visualize and organize the following:

Deadlines and number of essays needed
Prompt overlap, allowing you to write one essay for similar prompts

You can build your own essay tracker using our free Google Sheets template.

College essay tracker template

Ideally, you should start brainstorming college essay topics the summer before your senior year. Keep in mind that it’s easier to write a standout essay with a unique topic.

If you want to write about a common essay topic, such as a sports injury or volunteer work overseas, think carefully about how you can make it unique and personal. You’ll need to demonstrate deep insight and write your story in an original way to differentiate it from similar essays.

What makes a good topic?

Meaningful and personal to you
Uncommon or has an unusual angle
Reveals something different from the rest of your application

Brainstorming questions

You should do a comprehensive brainstorm before choosing your topic. Here are a few questions to get started:

What are your top five values? What lived experiences demonstrate these values?
What adjectives would your friends and family use to describe you?
What challenges or failures have you faced and overcome? What lessons did you learn from them?
What makes you different from your classmates?
What are some objects that represent your identity, your community, your relationships, your passions, or your goals?
Whom do you admire most? Why?
What three people have significantly impacted your life? How did they influence you?

How to identify your topic

Here are two strategies for identifying a topic that demonstrates your values:

Start with your qualities : First, identify positive qualities about yourself; then, brainstorm stories that demonstrate these qualities.
Start with a story : Brainstorm a list of memorable life moments; then, identify a value shown in each story.

After choosing your topic, organize your ideas in an essay outline , which will help keep you focused while writing. Unlike a five-paragraph academic essay, there’s no set structure for a college admissions essay. You can take a more creative approach, using storytelling techniques to shape your essay.

Two common approaches are to structure your essay as a series of vignettes or as a single narrative.

Vignettes structure

The vignette, or montage, structure weaves together several stories united by a common theme. Each story should demonstrate one of your values or qualities and conclude with an insight or future outlook.

This structure gives the admissions officer glimpses into your personality, background, and identity, and shows how your qualities appear in different areas of your life.

Topic: Museum with a “five senses” exhibit of my experiences

Introduction: Tour guide introduces my museum and my “Making Sense of My Heritage” exhibit
Story: Racial discrimination with my eyes
Lesson: Using my writing to document truth
Story: Broadway musical interests
Lesson: Finding my voice
Story: Smells from family dinner table
Lesson: Appreciating home and family
Story: Washing dishes
Lesson: Finding moments of peace in busy schedule
Story: Biking with Ava
Lesson: Finding pleasure in job well done
Conclusion: Tour guide concludes tour, invites guest to come back for “fall College Collection,” featuring my search for identity and learning.

Single story structure

The single story, or narrative, structure uses a chronological narrative to show a student’s character development over time. Some narrative essays detail moments in a relatively brief event, while others narrate a longer journey spanning months or years.

Single story essays are effective if you have overcome a significant challenge or want to demonstrate personal development.

Topic: Sports injury helps me learn to be a better student and person

Situation: Football injury
Challenge: Friends distant, teachers don’t know how to help, football is gone for me
Turning point: Starting to like learning in Ms. Brady’s history class; meeting Christina and her friends
My reactions: Reading poetry; finding shared interest in poetry with Christina; spending more time studying and with people different from me
Insight: They taught me compassion and opened my eyes to a different lifestyle; even though I still can’t play football, I’m starting a new game

Brainstorm creative insights or story arcs

Regardless of your essay’s structure, try to craft a surprising story arc or original insights, especially if you’re writing about a common topic.

Never exaggerate or fabricate facts about yourself to seem interesting. However, try finding connections in your life that deviate from cliché storylines and lessons.

Common insight	Unique insight
Making an all-state team → outstanding achievement	Making an all-state team → counting the cost of saying “no” to other interests
Making a friend out of an enemy → finding common ground, forgiveness	Making a friend out of an enemy → confront toxic thinking and behavior in yourself
Choir tour → a chance to see a new part of the world	Choir tour → a chance to serve in leading younger students
Volunteering → learning to help my community and care about others	Volunteering → learning to be critical of insincere resume-building
Turning a friend in for using drugs → choosing the moral high ground	Turning a friend in for using drugs → realizing the hypocrisy of hiding your secrets

Admissions officers read thousands of essays each year, and they typically spend only a few minutes reading each one. To get your message across, your introduction , or hook, needs to grab the reader’s attention and compel them to read more..

Avoid starting your introduction with a famous quote, cliché, or reference to the essay itself (“While I sat down to write this essay…”).

While you can sometimes use dialogue or a meaningful quotation from a close family member or friend, make sure it encapsulates your essay’s overall theme.

Find an original, creative way of starting your essay using the following two methods.

Option 1: Start with an intriguing hook

Begin your essay with an unexpected statement to pique the reader’s curiosity and compel them to carefully read your essay. A mysterious introduction disarms the reader’s expectations and introduces questions that can only be answered by reading more.

Option 2: Start with vivid imagery

Illustrate a clear, detailed image to immediately transport your reader into your memory. You can start in the middle of an important scene or describe an object that conveys your essay’s theme.

A college application essay allows you to be creative in your style and tone. As you draft your essay, try to use interesting language to enliven your story and stand out .

Show, don’t tell

“Tell” in writing means to simply state a fact: “I am a basketball player.” “ Show ” in writing means to use details, examples, and vivid imagery to help the reader easily visualize your memory: “My heart races as I set up to shoot一two seconds, one second一and score a three-pointer!”

First, reflect on every detail of a specific image or scene to recall the most memorable aspects.

What are the most prominent images?
Are there any particular sounds, smells, or tastes associated with this memory?
What emotion or physical feeling did you have at that time?

Be vulnerable to create an emotional response

You don’t have to share a huge secret or traumatic story, but you should dig deep to express your honest feelings, thoughts, and experiences to evoke an emotional response. Showing vulnerability demonstrates humility and maturity. However, don’t exaggerate to gain sympathy.

Use appropriate style and tone

Make sure your essay has the right style and tone by following these guidelines:

Use a conversational yet respectful tone: less formal than academic writing, but more formal than texting your friends.
Prioritize using “I” statements to highlight your perspective.
Write within your vocabulary range to maintain an authentic voice.
Write concisely, and use the active voice to keep a fast pace.
Follow grammar rules (unless you have valid stylistic reasons for breaking them).

You should end your college essay with a deep insight or creative ending to leave the reader with a strong final impression. Your college admissions essay should avoid the following:

Summarizing what you already wrote
Stating your hope of being accepted to the school
Mentioning character traits that should have been illustrated in the essay, such as “I’m a hard worker”

Here are two strategies to craft a strong conclusion.

Option 1: Full circle, sandwich structure

The full circle, or sandwich, structure concludes the essay with an image, idea, or story mentioned in the introduction. This strategy gives the reader a strong sense of closure.

In the example below, the essay concludes by returning to the “museum” metaphor that the writer opened with.

Option 2: Revealing your insight

You can use the conclusion to show the insight you gained as a result of the experiences you’ve described. Revealing your main message at the end creates suspense and keeps the takeaway at the forefront of your reader’s mind.

Revise your essay before submitting it to check its content, style, and grammar. Get feedback from no more than two or three people.

It’s normal to go through several rounds of revision, but take breaks between each editing stage.

Also check out our college essay examples to see what does and doesn’t work in an essay and the kinds of changes you can make to improve yours.

Respect the word count

Most schools specify a word count for each essay , and you should stay within 10% of the upper limit.

Remain under the specified word count limit to show you can write concisely and follow directions. However, don’t write too little, which may imply that you are unwilling or unable to write a thoughtful and developed essay.

Check your content, style, and grammar

First, check big-picture issues of message, flow, and clarity.
Then, check for style and tone issues.
Finally, focus on eliminating grammar and punctuation errors.

Get feedback

Get feedback from 2–3 people who know you well, have good writing skills, and are familiar with college essays.

Teachers and guidance counselors can help you check your content, language, and tone.
Friends and family can check for authenticity.
An essay coach or editor has specialized knowledge of college admissions essays and can give objective expert feedback.

The checklist below helps you make sure your essay ticks all the boxes.

College admissions essay checklist

I’ve organized my essay prompts and created an essay writing schedule.

I’ve done a comprehensive brainstorm for essay topics.

I’ve selected a topic that’s meaningful to me and reveals something different from the rest of my application.

I’ve created an outline to guide my structure.

I’ve crafted an introduction containing vivid imagery or an intriguing hook that grabs the reader’s attention.

I’ve written my essay in a way that shows instead of telling.

I’ve shown positive traits and values in my essay.

I’ve demonstrated self-reflection and insight in my essay.

I’ve used appropriate style and tone .

I’ve concluded with an insight or a creative ending.

I’ve revised my essay , checking my overall message, flow, clarity, and grammar.

I’ve respected the word count , remaining within 10% of the upper word limit.

Congratulations!

It looks like your essay ticks all the boxes. A second pair of eyes can help you take it to the next level – Scribbr's essay coaches can help.

Colleges want to be able to differentiate students who seem similar on paper. In the college application essay , they’re looking for a way to understand each applicant’s unique personality and experiences.

Your college essay accounts for about 25% of your application’s weight. It may be the deciding factor in whether you’re accepted, especially for competitive schools where most applicants have exceptional grades, test scores, and extracurricular track records.

A standout college essay has several key ingredients:

A unique, personally meaningful topic
A memorable introduction with vivid imagery or an intriguing hook
Specific stories and language that show instead of telling
Vulnerability that’s authentic but not aimed at soliciting sympathy
Clear writing in an appropriate style and tone
A conclusion that offers deep insight or a creative ending

While timelines will differ depending on the student, plan on spending at least 1–3 weeks brainstorming and writing the first draft of your college admissions essay , and at least 2–4 weeks revising across multiple drafts. Don’t forget to save enough time for breaks between each writing and editing stage.

You should already begin thinking about your essay the summer before your senior year so that you have plenty of time to try out different topics and get feedback on what works.

Most college application portals specify a word count range for your essay, and you should stay within 10% of the upper limit to write a developed and thoughtful essay.

You should aim to stay under the specified word count limit to show you can follow directions and write concisely. However, don’t write too little, as it may seem like you are unwilling or unable to write a detailed and insightful narrative about yourself.

If no word count is specified, we advise keeping your essay between 400 and 600 words.

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Home > Blog > Tips for Online Students > How to Get Good Grades in College: 16 Best Tips

Tips for Online Students , Tips for Students

How to Get Good Grades in College: 16 Best Tips

Updated: June 19, 2024

Published: April 11, 2020

Have you been wondering how to get good grades? Here is a list of 16 hints and tips to help you improve your high school or college grades. Truthfully, the ultimate secret to getting good grades is to develop super study skills .

Top Tips on How to Get Good Grades

1. attend all your classes.

Try your absolute best to attend all of your classes. Sometimes missing a class is unavoidable, but there are enormous benefits to making sure that you never miss a class:

You will be more likely to keep ahead of your subject
You will avoid knowledge gaps due to missing out on important material
You will have the opportunity to make your presence known, by answering questions, participating, and contributing your ideas, thoughts, and opinions.
Some colleges give attendance points, so if this is the case, make sure that you benefit from them.

2. Master Your Professors

Get to know your professors and make sure that they get to know you. They will have a better opportunity to understand your strengths and weaknesses.
Let them know when you are struggling. They are there to help you.
Understand your course expectations. If there is anything that you are unsure of, don’t hesitate to ask your professor to clarify.

3. Stay Organized

If you want to know how to get even better grades, organization is really key.

Use a planner or calendar and make sure that you are up to date with all of your deadlines
Create a designated workspace with good lighting and a comfortable chair
Declutter your desk
Schedule blocks of time for learning
Organize your digital files in named folders for ease of access
Keep stationery on hand. Make sure that you have pens, highlighters, eraser, sharpener, notebooks, flashcards, and colored markers

Photo by Bram Naus on Unsplash

4. time management.

Balancing work, study, and family responsibilities can be challenging if your time is not managed carefully . Time is a valuable commodity.

Make a To Do list: Once everything that you need to do is written down, it not only helps you to remember it, but it gives you some relief from worrying about it.
Use a planner/calendar: Record assignment deadlines and schedule your learning.
Set goals: Decide on your daily, weekly, and monthly goals. Once you know where you need to get to, you will already be half way there. Setting goals gives you clarity and motivates you to take action.
Utilize your “dead time”: Such as time in a doctor’s waiting room or time travelling on buses or trains. This time can be used for reading, researching, or typing up your thoughts, ideas, and notes.
Clear your workspace: Our physical environment has a major effect on the way we work. A tidy space creates a tidy mind. Keep your workspace tidy and remove all clutter. A tidy workspace helps you to have a clearer mind. Marie Kondo, a decluttering expert and author of the book “Spark Joy” has some excellent hints and tips on how to keep your workspace tidy .

5. Taking Notes

Taking notes will help you at the revision and exam stage. The use of abbreviations is the best way to speed up your note taking . Your abbreviated notes should then be written out fully after class.

According to a research study on the correlation between writing and memory at Princeton University, there is a direct correlation between writing and memory. Writing involves a thinking process, resulting in greater retention of information, while typing on a keyboard can be done verbatim, without processing and reframing information, resulting in a lower rate of retention.

In order to get better grades, close your laptop and go back to old-fashioned pen and paper!

6. Become An Active Listener

Concentrate on the words and messages. Avoid being distracted by a lecturer’s accent, clothes, speech, or mannerisms.
Try to identify the most important points and take notes on them.
Avoid getting distracted by your smartphone. Turn it off completely in class.

7. Participate In Class

If you ask questions , you are more likely to remember the material, as the answers to your questions relate to your thoughts on the subject. If you make a habit out of asking questions, it has the additional advantage of encouraging you to listen well.
Listen to the opinions and thoughts of your classmates. Listening will help you to process and remember information. Conversations tend to be remembered more than written information.
Contribute to the discussion — by developing a regular habit of making contributions to discussions on the subject, it encourages you to listen, focus, and process. You will want to make a good impression by making educated and intelligent contributions.

8. Develop Good Writing Study Habits

During lectures, it’s generally a good idea to write down points, which can act as memory joggers. Then, after class, you can write out these notes in full.

Another popular method is to draw out mind maps during the lecture and expand on them later on. A mind map is a visual, usually colored diagram designed to be a hierarchy of information in which main points can be expanded on in note form later on.

How to Mind Map with Tony Buzan

Another tip on writing notes well is to draft, rewrite, and proofread your work. The more comprehensive your notes are, the easier it will be to review and study them at the exam stage.

9. Learn In Groups And Learn From Each Other

Studying in small groups can break up the monotony of revision.
You will have the opportunity to learn from each other.
Make sure that when you are learning in a group, it doesn’t turn into a social event and you don’t get too distracted by unrelated conversations.

10. Know Your Learning Style

In order to become a better learner, you need to define and categorize the method by which you learn best. Once you have done this, you will have a much clearer idea of how to help yourself to process, absorb, and memorize information.

The VARK model of learning styles, developed by Neil Flemming — an educational theorist — identifies 4 distinctive categories of learners:

V – Visual – Visual learners learn through seeing, therefore respond well to visual aids such as maps, charts, graphs, presentations, images, and videos.
A – Auditory – Auditory learners learn through hearing and best absorb information that they hear such as lectures, discussions, and listening to audio books.
R – Reading and Writing – Reading and writing learners learn through the input and output of words. This includes writing assignments, essays, reading books, manuals, and websites.
K – Kinesthetic – Kinesthetic learners learn through touching, interacting, and doing. They learn best when they are physically engaged or active during the learning process. They remember and process knowledge best by interacting hands-on with their environment.

Assess yourself! Once you know how you learn best, you will be a far better learner.

11. Use Learning Aids And Study Resources

There are plenty of online tools and resources for flashcards, mind maps, quizzes, record keeping, scheduling, and memorizing that can be highly beneficial to learning.

To save you time, we have compiled a list of excellent study resource websites. Check out the following:

Hippocampus
StudyBlue (Chegg)
Studystack .

12. Manage Interruptions And Distractions

Find a quiet place to study. It can be a designated space at home or a library.
Turn off your smartphone during your study sessions. Checking your phone every time you receive a notification is distracting and will take your mind off your learning and hinder your concentration.

13. Eat healthily and exercise

Make sure to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.
Exercise regularly. It doesn’t need to be a full workout or an expensive gym membership. Go for walks, jog, run, or take a regular exercise class.
Exercise improves concentration and memory .
Drink plenty of water.

Photo by Mae Mu on Unsplash

14. ask for help.

Many students see asking for help as a weakness. But asking for help is a strength! It shows that you have maturity, self-awareness, and that you are able to recognise a problem before it develops. If you are struggling with your schoolwork or have a personal problem, speak to your professors about it. They are there to help you with all your needs.

15. Take Regular Breaks

In order to get the most out of your study, you need to take breaks regularly.

Set an alarm every 30 to 60 minutes and get up, close your laptop and books, and get some fresh air for 5 to 10 minutes. Do any activity that will take your mind off studying so that when you come back to it, you are feeling refreshed and energized.

Everybody knows that lack of sleep is detrimental to your health. It produces lethargy, lack of concentration and “brain fog,” a form of mental clouding.

However, research has shown that a good night’s sleep is not only vital for health and general well-being, but extremely beneficial for learning and memory. During sleep, our brain is not resting as is commonly believed. Findings reveal that our brain mechanisms are at work during sleep, solidifying our memories by transferring them to more permanent regions of the brain.

The Bottom Line

If you follow these 16 tips on how to get good grades, you will surely see a marked improvement on your next test scores.

If you are still undecided on your choice of study and need to balance studying for a degree with work or family commitments, University of the People is a tuition-free, American accredited university that provides world-class bachelor’s and master’s degrees.

To learn more about us, see our informative and inspirational TED talk by Shai Reshef , founder of UoPeople.

In this article

At UoPeople, our blog writers are thinkers, researchers, and experts dedicated to curating articles relevant to our mission: making higher education accessible to everyone. Read More

Introduction
Why a Study Plan?
Create a Study Schedule
Create a Task List
How Long Will It Take?
Can You Get It Done?
Your Study Routine
When To Study
Where To Study
Study Methods
How to Take Notes
How to Study a Textbook
How to Study For Exams
How To Write a Paper

How to Write a College Paper

It’s been a long time since I wrote an essay so I’ve delegated the discussion of this topic to Dr. Genevieve Carlton. She’s had a lot of experience writing and grading papers. We appreciate her advice and you should too.

How to Write a Great Paper, by Genevieve Carlton Ph.D

A college paper is the standard assignment in humanities and social sciences. You need to master writing essays if you want to earn the best grades. But writing papers isn’t just about the grade. It’s about honing your language and persuasion skills – the most powerful tools you always have at your disposal.

If you’re intimidated by the basic five-page paper, you aren’t alone. But college essays are not rocket science. Regardless of whether you’re writing a paper for history, English, sociology, psychology, or any other class, these simple methods will raise your grade on any college paper.

Let’s jump in.

Start Writing Your College Essay at Least Two Weeks Before The Due Date

There are a lot of different approaches to writing an essay, but they all share one thing: start early! Never put off writing an essay until the last minute, you’ll make sloppy mistakes or risk late penalties that will destroy your grade. Instead, start at least two weeks before the due date. Btw, Shovel makes this easy. Just set that you want to get started 14 days before the essay is due. Shovel will let you know if it’s enough time and will remind you when to get started.

Why is it so important to start early? If you pull an all-nighter right before the due date, it will show. You’ll end up with mediocre argument, poor evidence, and a lack of polish… trust me, professors can tell. And you’ll miss out on the opportunities to gain feedback from your professor during your writing process.

There’s no secret formula to writing a perfect paper right before the deadline. Writing a great paper takes time, so you need to start early.

Read, Read, and Re-Read the Essay Assignment

Some professors might not admit it, but here’s the truth: every professor wants something slightly different from your paper.

Your English professor wants you to emphasize narrative styles, while your art history professor cares about technique. Your history professor wants quotes from the reading, while your psychology professor expects you to summarize (and cite!) the sources. One professor might knock off points for using in-line citation, while another hates footnotes. Even professors in the same department might want completely different essays.

So how are you supposed to figure out what your professor wants? It’s easy: study the assignment and ask questions. Even better, ask if your professor uses a grading rubric for essays. Then you’ll know exactly what your professor wants to see.

Studying the assignment is your key to getting an A on every paper. Your professor tells you exactly what he or she is looking for: will you be graded largely on your argument, your evidence, or your grammar? Does the professor want a persuasive argument or a descriptive argument? If the assignment doesn’t say, ask! You can easily raise your grade from the middle of the bell curve to top of the class just by making sure you’re writing the paper your professor wants to see.

You’ve Already Done Half the Work

Here’s the good news: if you’re on top of your course reading, you’ve already done half the work the day your professor hands out the paper topics.

Most essay assignments come directly from the reading: Create an analysis of race in Huck Finn. Explain Machiavelli’s attitude on power in The Prince. Compare and contrast two perspectives on World War II.

You have a major advantage if you read the material closely. And don’t just read: highlight the most important passages, write down the key arguments, and take notes on the major points. If you do that, you’ve literally done half the work for your paper.

So don’t cut corners when it comes to the assigned reading. In fact, read with an essay question in mind––look for the quotes that you’ll use to build your argument now, and it will be much easier to build your evidence list later.

Know Your Five-Paragraph Essay

College essays come in many shapes and sizes, from persuasive to argumentative, and from narrative to analytical. But they often follow a similar format: the standard five-paragraph essay, drilled into every high school student’s mind. And unless the assignment requests something different, use the five-paragraph essay as your template for most college essays.

As a reminder, the five-paragraph essay opens with your introduction paragraph, which ends with your thesis statement, or argument. The next three body paragraphs lay out your evidence. The essay wraps up with a conclusion, where you reiterate your point.

That same format works for everything from a three-page analytical essay to a fifteen-page research paper. You’ll obviously need more body paragraphs in a longer paper, and in any argumentative paper you’ll want to address counter-arguments or problems in your argument. But use the five-paragraph template to create an outline for your paper.

Always Create an Outline for Structure

Professors can nearly always spot an essay written at the last minute. And here’s why: they ramble; they don’t have a clear structure; they wander from point to point without building to anything. Needless to say, those papers don’t earn high grades.

You can avoid that pitfall by writing a strong outline before drafting the essay.

An outline helps you arrange your ideas before you begin drafting the paper. Start by re-reading the assignment and jotting down the main topics your paper must address. And then think about how to order them: which of the two readings should you discuss first? Where should you address counter-arguments? Should your descriptive paragraph come right after your introduction, or can it wait until page two?

Essentially, writing an outline forces you to think about how to make your argument. It doesn’t need to be a polished document, because it will evolve as you work on the paper. At this stage, your outline might look more like a list of paragraph topics, with not much else filled in. But having that framework helps ensure that your essay stays focused on the topic.

Start with your Evidence

Don’t start by writing your introduction. The introduction is the absolutely most important part of any paper. Within that first paragraph, your professor is already deciding whether you’ve submitted an A paper or not.

So leave the introduction until you’re able to write the most focused, best paragraph that you’ve ever created.

Instead, start with your evidence. Read the essay prompt and make a list of the crucial evidence. Use your notes on the reading to pull out the strongest building blocks for your case. Write down examples you want to pull from lectures. Collect a list of the best quotes from the readings.

And look at your outline. Start filling in the examples you’ll use in each paragraph.

Once you have an evidence list, it will be much easier to craft your body paragraphs, the meat of your paper where you lay out your argument. Now that you know your evidence, it’s time to hone your argument.

It’s All About The Argument

The argument, or thesis statement, is the most important sentence in your paper. That one sentence lays out your answer to the essay prompt and sets up your body paragraphs. So it has to be great.

While you’re creating your evidence list, jot down a few potential arguments. Don’t pick one just yet, though. Instead, try on a few different arguments and see if you have the evidence to support them. Stay open to changing your argument.

Your thesis statement will look different in an expository essay versus an argumentative essay. But the general idea is the same: your argument sums up your paper’s point of view. So make sure it’s strong.

And here’s one important rule for all types of papers: never, ever have a thesis statement that just says “Yes” or “No.” Your argument should always explain why. If the essay prompt gives you a statement and asks you to agree or disagree, explain why. If the prompt tells you to pick one side of a debate, explain why. Just make sure you have the evidence to back it up.

It’s Finally Time To Write

That’s right, there are seven steps before you get to actually write the essay. That’s one reason you need to start early.

Before you start writing your paper, you should have a clear roadmap for your argument and evidence. You should know what the professor wants, and you should have an outline to answer the essay prompt. You should feel confident that you understand the reading and that you’ve pulled out the major points.

Then––and only then––it’s time to start writing.

Start with your body paragraphs, incorporating the examples from your outline and evidence list. Open each paragraph with a topic sentence, which tells your reader what to expect from the following paragraph. Add your citations as you go, whether as footnotes or inline citations––it will save time to include them now instead of going back to add them later. After writing a paragraph, re-read it. Edit as you go to polish your ideas and make sure you aren’t leaving out any evidence.

Once you have a draft of your body paragraphs, create the conclusion. And then go back to write the introduction. Save your professor grief by avoiding opening sentences like “Since the dawn of time . . .” or “The Oxford English Dictionary defines . . .” The last thing you write should be your thesis statement.

You’ve finished a complete draft of your paper––congratulations! But you’re not done yet.

Talk to Your Professor or TA

No one makes a better editor than the person grading your essay. So you should always check whether your professor or TA will review a draft of your paper before the due date. Ask if they have a policy about reading drafts––or at least ask if they’ll read your first paragraph, which will make or break your grade.

Be prepared to send your professor or TA a full or partial draft at least three or four days before the deadline. Even though some professors have a policy against reading drafts, it never hurts to ask. And it’s a guaranteed way to improve your paper, since you’ll get feedback from the person assigning your grade.

Revise, Revise, Revise Your Essay

The biggest mistake students make in papers is never revising––in fact, most students don’t even proofread. Professors notice sloppy mistakes like grammatical errors and typos, and it automatically weakens your grade. It tells the professor you didn’t take the assignment seriously enough to leave time for revisions.

Aim to have a full draft at least three days before the due date, so you’ll have time to perfect your paper. What should you look for when revising? Eliminate any typos, correct your grammar, and delete any dumb mistakes, like sentences that simply end in the middle of a thought (yes, I’ve seen that in multiple papers). That’s the easy step.

Now re-read your introduction. Go back to your outline and evidence list. Can you strengthen your argument, now that you’ve compiled your evidence? Can you do a better job connecting the evidence back to your argument? Look for weaknesses in your paper. Are there holes in your argument? Are there obvious counter-examples you need to address?

Imagine you’re the professor, red pen poised over the paper, and ask yourself how to make your paper stronger.

Once you complete the revisions, submit the essay and take a break. You’ve earned it.

Study Your Paper

You didn’t think you were done just because you turned in the paper, right?

When it comes to college, analyzing your results is almost as important as writing the paper in the first place. Your graded essay tells you everything you need to know to ace the next paper for that professor. So study the comments––the line edits, the marginal suggestions, and the scrawl on the final page, right above your grade.

Did you lose points because you didn’t follow the proper citation style? Correct it next time. Was your argument unclear? Put an extra hour into honing your argument on the second paper. Whatever you missed this time, learn from it, so you don’t lose more points on the next assignment.

Ask About Rewrites

The last thing most college students want to do after submitting an essay is to rewrite it. But you’d be surprised how many students lose the opportunity to improve their grades, simply because they don’t ask about rewrites.

So if you earned less than an A on your paper, it really can’t hurt to ask the professor if you can rewrite using their feedback. Some professors will automatically say no, but others will let you submit a revised version for a higher grade.

When you’re rewriting the paper, don’t simply correct the typos and submit again––professors might feel like you’re wasting their time if you don’t listen to their comments. You might need to add more sources or strengthen your argument. It might require several hours of work. But if that means raising your grade on a significant assignment, it’s time well spent.

Plagiarism Is Never The Easiest Option

Yes, writing an essay the right way is a time-intensive process. And cutting corners is easier than ever, thanks to the internet. But plagiarism––representing any work as your own when it’s not––is never the right choice.

It might seem easier than writing your own paper, but it’s not. I guarantee it. Here’s why: it’s easy to plagiarize. Google any topic and you’ll find a dozen or more essays. But the cost is too high.

Take it from a professor––plagiarism is shockingly easy to notice. Essays that don’t answer the assignment, or that only cite books not assigned in class. Papers with five-syllable words in one paragraph and typos in the next, or that switch voices halfway through. Papers that include complicated ideas not mentioned in class––or that leave out core concepts from lecture. These all set off a professor’s plagiarism detector. And then there’s actual plagiarism detection software. In short, there’s a good chance you’ll get caught.

Most colleges have a no plagiarism policy. That means if your professor finds out you plagiarized, you could get an automatic zero on the assignment, or even in the class. You could get suspended from school or even expelled.

It’s not worth it to game the system.

Time Management

Essays make up a big part of your grade in some classes––in most of mine, for example, papers accounted for 30% or more of the final grade. That means you should spend a significant amount of time on those papers.

What does that mean? You need to master time management for college papers.

It’s not always easy to figure out how much time you need to write a paper. It’s different for every student, and sometimes different for every paper. Some students can craft a perfect essay in just a few hours, while others require double that time or more. Starting early is one of the best ways to manage your time. That way the deadline won’t sneak up on you.

Consider using a tool like the Shovel app to manage your time. Shovel lets you schedule blocks of time in advance, so you’ll never run out. You can budget time for research and outlining, writing drafts, and revising the paper. And Shovel can also track your time, so you’ll know how long it takes to write a paper. The next time you tackle an essay, you’ll have an even better idea how much time you need. And if you start tracking now, you’ll benefit for your next four years of writing papers––because you’re going to write a lot in college.

Depending on your major, you might find yourself working on multiple papers every week, especially near the end of the semester. And as long as you schedule out the time in advance, you’ll never get stuck rushing to finish an essay at the last minute.

If you study the assignment, plan out your essay before you start writing, and always leave time for revisions, you can easily raise your grade on any college paper.

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14 Ways to Improve Your Grades if You’re Underperforming

Even the brightest students can sometimes find themselves academically underperforming, often through no fault of their own. When students find themselves in this situation, it’s often because they’re stuck in a rut and are not sure what to do to improve. If this sounds like you, the first step is to work out the reasons why you may be underperforming, and the next step is to work out how to tackle the problem. If you’re not sure how to go about it, this article shows you what you can do to form an improvement plan to help you achieve the grades you know you’re capable of achieving.

1. Adopt a positive mental attitude

In the face of lower-than-expected grades, it’s only human to react by feeling disappointed with oneself. When you’re frequently receiving lower grades than you’d hoped for, you may start to feel depressed or defeated, and feel like giving up. The first step on the road to improving your grades is to turn this negativity on its head. You need to be positive about the situation if you’re to stand a chance of improving it. Acknowledge that your grades aren’t what you’re aiming for, but believe that you can do something about it. Start by mentally taking control of the situation: instead of thinking “I’m a failure”, think “I can and will do better than this.” Don’t give up – take positive steps towards achieving the improvement you’re more than capable of achieving.

2. Work out where you’re falling short

You need to work out which areas need targeting before you can draw up a plan of action, so the next step is to figure out the areas in which you’re underperforming, and why. Are your grades consistently lower than you’d like them to be across all your subjects, or is there one particular area you’re struggling with that’s bringing down your overall performance in a particular subject? Take a look at your grades over the last few months and look for patterns. Has there been a general decline in academic achievement, or have your grades in certain areas always been lower than you’d hoped? Are your grades always low in the same areas, such as one problem subject? You’ll probably already have a vague idea of the answers to these questions, but seeing your grades written down on paper – perhaps even in graph format – can help you see things more clearly. Next, think about the reasons why you’re not performing to your full academic potential in the areas you’ve identified. Are there external factors that may be negatively affecting your grades, such as a family problem or worrying about a social situation at school? Are you struggling with any particular academic skills that might be dragging you down, such as essay-writing or note-taking? And are you studying in a way that works for you? These are all factors that could be affecting your academic performance, so once you’ve isolated what the problem is – it could be a combination of more than one of these issues – you’ll be able to start tackling it. If the problems are external, you’ll need to take steps towards getting them to a point at which they no longer adversely affect your studies; seeing a counsellor might help, for instance. If they’re academic, read the rest of this article for some suggestions on how you can improve.

3. Talk to your teachers

Your teachers know you best, so it’s worth talking to them when you’re drawing up a plan of action for improving your grades. Ask them where they think you need to improve, and they’ll probably have some advice on how you can go about it. Coupled with the advice in the rest of this article, this should allow you to tailor an action plan to your personal situation.

4. Pay more attention in class – and ask questions

If you’re prone to daydreaming in class, it’s time to start focusing on the here and now. Listen to what the teacher is saying rather than talking with friends or allowing your mind to wander. Don’t simply copy down what’s on the board without thinking about it; make sure you’ve understood it, make neat notes so that you can understand them when you come back to them (more on that later), and don’t be afraid to speak up if there’s something you don’t understand or want clarifying. It’s much easier to ask a teacher to explain something differently than it is to trawl through books trying to find a clearer explanation for yourself, and they won’t think less of you for asking.

5. Start organising your life

Clutter of any kind inhibits our ability to operate efficiently, so another way of improving your academic performance is to get organised. Keep your workspace tidy and all your notes and textbooks organised in such a way that you know where everything is. Start thinking more about your time management, too, as this will allow you to prioritise your time effectively, freeing time for problem subjects. Write yourself a daily timetable that incorporates your school schedule, dividing your day into slots of time and fitting in plenty of time for studying. Allocate extra time to subjects or topics you’ve identified as being ones you’re struggling with; it could be that the reason for your underperformance in these subjects is that you’re simply not devoting enough time to them.

6. Improve your note-taking skills

One of the reasons you may have identified for underperforming is that you’re not taking good enough notes. Hurriedly scrawled notes from class can be difficult to make sense of when you come to revise from them, or even to write an essay based on them. It’s all too easy to misunderstand your own notes and fail to get a strong enough grasp of the topic. It’s imperative, therefore, that you produce good notes from each of your classes and from the books you use – notes that you can read, that are useful, and that are logically organised. If you make notes by hand – in class, for example – try to type them up at the end of the day, while they’re still fresh in your mind.

7. Improve your essay-writing skills

Another common reason for academic underperformance is that the student’s essay-writing skills aren’t sufficient for the level required to achieve top grades. This is fairly easily fixed by improving your essay-writing technique. Good essay technique covers all aspects of essay-writing, from the research phase to the final proofread, and even how you respond to the feedback you get for your essays. Responding in the right way to feedback – and not taking criticism personally – will be particularly useful if you feel you’re underperforming, as this should give you the guidance you need to be able to improve.

8. Find the right learning style for you

If you’re academically underperforming, another possible reason could be that you haven’t found the right learning style for you. We’re all different, and each of us has our own way of studying that yields the best results. Perhaps you just haven’t found your most effective studying style yet. If you’ve been trying to work on your own, for example, you might find it easier to work with a friend or two, so that you have someone else there to motivate you.

9. Improve your memory

Many students struggle to remember all the information they need for exams, and this brings their grades down. With so much to learn across many subjects, remembering facts, figures and arguments is a pretty monumental task, and you need to arm yourself with some effective memory aids to help you. You’ll find more tips on improving your memory in our article on memory techniques for exam preparation.

10. Stop procrastinating

One of the reasons why you’re underperforming could be that you’re spending too much time procrastinating – that is, putting off work by distracting yourself with other things, such as social media. This is a common response to a big workload; when you have so much to do that you don’t know where to start, the temptation is simply not to start. The problem is that in doing so, you’re delaying the inevitable, as well as making your task worse by eating into the time when you could be productive. If you’re guilty of procrastination – and we all are at some point or another – take a look at our article on five reasons we procrastinate and how to stop it.

11. Allow plenty of time for revision

If you’re achieving lower scores than you’d hoped for on timed tests or mock exams, it could be because you’re not allowing enough time for revising for them. This may be because you know it’s not ‘the real thing’, but practice exams are just as important as real ones. They show you which areas you need to spend more time on, and achieving good grades in them will give you a confidence boost. Treat them as seriously as you would a real exam, allowing yourself plenty of time to revising for them. Better still, revise everything you learn as you go along, so that you learn it properly first time round and have less need for revision. Also, be sure to read our articles on effective revision techniques for science students and humanities students.

12. Make learning more fun

Sometimes students underperform because they have simply lost the motivation to learn. It’s not surprising, when the pressure of exams and doing well at school takes away the enjoyment of learning. It’s easy to get so focused on achieving top grades that you forget that learning can actually be fun – and not only that, but it’s much easier to do well when you’re enjoying it. If studying has become a chore for you, it’s time to put the fun back into learning. You could do this by gamifying your studies, or by trying some of the ideas in our article on 15 ways to make studying less stressful.

13. Hire a private tutor

As a last resort, if the ideas in this article haven’t worked for you, you might consider hiring a private tutor to help you improve your grades for a particularly tricky subject. Some extra tuition may be just what you need to help bring your grade up, as you’ll benefit from one-to-one tuition in an environment in which you might feel more able to ask questions without the fear of speaking up in front of your peers. If you think this would help you, speak to your parents and suggest that they place an advert in the local paper if they’re willing to cover the cost of private tuition for you.

14. Go on a summer school

A final option – best taken alongside the other advice in this article, rather than instead of it – is to book yourself onto an academic summer school. Taking part in a summer school would allow you to learn away from the pressures of the classroom and exams, reinvigorating your love of learning and inspiring you to take a more determined approach to your studies. What’s more, summer schools are great for helping you get to grips with trickier subjects, so this could be a good solution to your underperforming subjects as well. Take a look at our Oxford summer school courses to find one to help you start improving your grades. It’s not just an option in the summer – ever-popular Easter revision courses are a great way to get a boost shortly before your exams.

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How to Get Good Grades in College

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01 Establishing a Strong Foundation for Academic Success
02 Time Management
03 Maximizing Your Learning Experience
04 Mastering Test-Taking Techniques
05 Maintaining Your Motivation and Mental Health
06 Frequently Asked Questions About College Grades

College is among the most popular paths taken by high school graduates. It is the first step in gaining the knowledge to accomplish career aspirations . This path carries significant responsibility and pressure to excel, as future employers and grad school often rely on grades to indicate your abilities.

Getting good college grades requires academic skills, time management, motivation, and self-care. Often the transition to college-level classes can be overwhelming if not adequately prepared. Getting good grades is not just about intelligence, it's also about effort and dedication .

Everyone can achieve a stellar college transcript without sacrificing the other exciting aspects of college. In this Bold article, we will explore some strategies to help you get good grades in college .

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Establishing a Strong Foundation for Academic Success

In order to maintain a successful college career, it is crucial for students to set a strong precedent early on. Maintaining a high grade point average and test scores is much easier when that foundation is built from the beginning . Although not difficult, the proper preparation involves several factors, including choosing the right courses, developing effective study habits, and building a support network.

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Choosing the Right Courses

Class difficulty from high school to college is vastly different, so first-year students must carefully consider which courses they want to take. Choosing the right courses is a critical aspect of academic success in college. While college is an opportunity for exploration, you also have to make sure that you are completing the right requirements for your major .

Before registration, browse your college's requirements to explore your major and interests. Be mindful of the different levels of courses. For example, higher-level courses are mostly catered to upperclassmen. Make sure you will be able to thrive in your classes.

Lastly, do not be afraid to explore courses outside of your major. Different subjects can broaden your knowledge and perspective, and you may discover a new passion or interest.

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Developing Effective Study Habits

Effective study habits are essential to do well in all your classes. Establishing a study routine that works for you and promotes an adequate learning process with class material is important.

Set aside pre-determined study time in a conducive environment that allows you to focus and be free from any distractions. Utilize study aids such as flashcards, summaries, and review guides to help you grasp the material outlined in the course expectations fully . Also, take notes in an organized way to make it easier to review them later.

Don't wait until the last minute to study for exams or complete homework assignments. Academic performance is more than attending class, and it requires consistent practice. Procrastination can lead to stress and poor performance. Instead, break down large assignments into smaller, manageable tasks and work on them consistently over time.

Building a Support Network

College can easily become overwhelming and lonely without a community by your side. Many students enter college feeling isolated as they leave home behind. Having a support network can be helpful for academic success.

Do not be afraid to join clubs or organizations catered to your career path or other aspects of your identity . It will give you the opportunity to identify the people who can support you in your journey, such as faculty members, academic advisors, and peers. Your support network will offer advice, encouragement, and motivation to help you succeed in your studies.

College is significantly harder when you carry the burden on your own . It is normal to have trouble with certain subjects, and you should always seek help when needed. If you're struggling with a particular subject or assignment, reach out to your professors or tutors for assistance. They are there to help you and want to see you succeed.

Time Management

With the immense responsibilities of college, creating a balanced schedule that encompasses enough time for multiple classes, friends, extracurricular commitments, and work can be a lot. Given how much part-time and full-time students are juggling daily, time management is essential for college students to master . Learning how to allocate your time efficiently will keep you organized, reduce stress, and help you achieve your academic goals. Here are some effective time management strategies that can help you make the most of your time:

Create a Study Schedule

Most classes outline important exam and assignment dates in the class syllabus, shared within the first week of the semester. Write these deadlines in your planner or calendar to stay on top of what weeks you need to study extra hard.

To manage your time effectively during the semester, create a study schedule by outlining when each lesson will be reviewed for the upcoming assessment. Dedicate sufficient time for specific classes and assignments in your study schedule to maximize your time and ensure coverage of all tasks.

When creating your schedule, set realistic goals and avoid procrastination . It is okay if you find it difficult to stick to your schedule. Figuring out your pace is an ongoing learning process. Try breaking down your study sessions into smaller, manageable chunks.

Finding a designated study space that encourages concentration and minimizes distractions might also be helpful. Whether it be a quiet corner of the library or a cozy spot in your dorm room, find what works for you.

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Prioritizing Assignments and Exams

It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the volume of work that comes with college. Although the workload might feel intimidating, it is much less daunting when you break it up into smaller tasks. Instead of focusing on everything all at once, it is important to prioritize assignments and exams to avoid missing deadlines or sacrificing quality.

Consider making a list of all your assignments and exams, and then rank them in order of importance or urgency . This will help you focus on the most critical tasks first . As the to-do list decreases, the burden will inevitably increase as well.

In a similar fashion, try to avoid multitasking. Instead, focus on one task at a time to ensure that you give each assignment your full attention. If you're struggling with a particular assignment, be proactive and attend your professor's office hours.

Balancing School, Work, and Social Life

While school is the biggest part of college, there are other important aspects you should try to dedicate time to. Create a schedule that allows you to balance multiple areas of life, such as your passions and community. Make sure to allocate time for work and social activities while prioritizing study time .

Also, keep in mind that sometimes you will have to sacrifice other parts of life to receive better grades. Learn to sometimes say no to activities that don't align with your priorities or goals. Be realistic about how much time you really need, and assess whether or not an unrelated event will hinder that. While having a social life is important, it's equally important to prioritize your academic success. Don't be afraid to decline invitations to parties or events if you have an important exam or assignment coming up .

Remember, time management is a skill that takes practice. By implementing these strategies, you can develop effective time management habits that will serve you well throughout your college career and beyond.

Wondering what an incomplete grade means? Read our blog, What Is an Incomplete in College? to learn more!

Maximizing Your Learning Experience

As a student, you want to make the most out of your college experience. Your college offers a lot of external resources that will benefit your future. This is the time to begin thinking about how the institution can support your aspirations. Given the unique opportunity, students are encouraged to maximize their learning experience by treating coursework as such. Here are some tips to help you do just that:

Active Listening and Note-Taking

Active listening and note-taking are crucial to understanding and retaining information discussed in class. That means asking questions, answering questions, and taking comprehensive class notes . Not only will this help you retain the information, but it will also help you stay engaged and focused during class. The material covered in class will often be on future exams, and the information might not be reinforced elsewhere.

When it comes to note-taking, you can use many different methods. Some students prefer to take handwritten notes, while others prefer to type their notes. Whatever method you choose, ensure you're taking detailed notes that capture the lecture's or discussion's key points.

Do not worry too much about writing every word down, more so understanding a broad gist of the professor's lesson plan. Reviewing your notes regularly will also promote understanding of the material and ensure that you're retaining the information over time.

Utilizing Campus Resources

Colleges offer various resources to support students’ academic success. These resources can include writing centers, tutoring services, and academic advising. They are available to you at your convenience, meaning you can access them when needed. Try to take advantage of these resources to improve your understanding of the material and receive feedback on your work.

College is an opportunity for growth and marked improvement. Find opportunities to push yourself to greater success rather than limit yourself from reaching your full potential. Specifically, if you're struggling with a particular subject, you might consider visiting a tutor.

Similarly, you might consider visiting a writing center if you're having trouble with a writing assignment. These centers are designed to support you from any point of the writing process, whether brainstorming or close to the final draft.

Participating in Study Groups

One of the best parts of college is that you are surrounded by people experiencing a similar journey. Working with your peers is the best way to improve your skills in classes. You can learn so much by solving problems with one another and answering each other's questions.

Study groups can be beneficial for students to share ideas, clarify concepts, and learn from each other . Engage with other students with the same academic goals and interests to form a study group. This can be your opportunity to review material, prepare for exams, and get feedback on your work.

B efore forming a study group, always establish clear goals and expectations . You should also ensure that everyone in the group is committed to attending meetings and contributing to the group's success. Finally, make sure that you're using your study group time effectively. This means staying focused on the material and avoiding distractions.

By actively participating in class, utilizing campus resources, and participating in study groups, you can enhance your learning experience and achieve academic success.

Mastering Test-Taking Techniques

Test-taking plays a pivotal role in determining your final grade. Given its importance, it can be a stressful experience for many students. However, you can overcome your anxiety and perform your best with the right preparation and strategies.

Preparing for Exams

The key to successful test-taking is all in preparation. This means crafting a study plan that works for you. Start by reviewing your notes and reading through the course material . Study based on how well you understand the concepts and can apply them to different scenarios. If you know that it is a harder course, it might be worthwhile to begin preparation earlier.

Next, work on practice problems and take practice exams to get a feel for the questions you may encounter on the exam . Ask your professor if they have any additional practice problems they recommend. Finally, make sure you're well-rested and nourished before the exam. Get a good night's sleep and eat a healthy breakfast to ensure your brain is functioning at its best.

Reducing Test Anxiety

Test anxiety is a common experience for many students that can skew academic performance. However, there are techniques to overcome and reduce its impact on your test performance. Some effective techniques include deep breathing exercises, positive self-talk, physical activity, and visualization exercises . Find what eases the stress of exams and stick with it.

Employing Effective Test-Taking Strategies

Knowing how to approach the exam itself is just as important as being prepared for its content. Effective test-taking strategies include reading instructions carefully . Ensure you understand what is being asked of you before answering the questions.

Managing your time is also important. Don't spend too much time on any one question, and make sure you have enough time to answer all of the questions. Finally, review your answers before submitting the exam. If you're unsure of an answer, employ guessing strategies to increase your chances of getting it right.

By following these techniques, you'll be well on your way to mastering test-taking and achieving success in your academic pursuits.

Maintaining Your Motivation and Mental Health

College can be extremely intense, both academically and personally. Balancing coursework, extracurricular activities, and social life can be overwhelming, leading to burnout and lacking motivation. However, there are several strategies you can use to mitigate the challenges and encourage continuous motivation and mental health throughout your college endeavors.

Setting Realistic Goals

Setting realistic goals is one of the most effective ways to stay motivated. Although ambitious long-term goals give us a future vision, breaking these intentions into smaller, achievable milestones can make them more manageable and less daunting . For example, if your ultimate goal is to attend medical school, set smaller goals, such as planning out the proper schedule and completing them with a high grade. Upon reaching your milestones, reward yourself with something you enjoy, such as a favorite meal or activity.

Managing Stress and Avoiding Burnout

While class grades are important, you should never let that overpower you. Managing stress and avoiding burnout is crucial, or school can quickly become strenuous.

In your schedule, make sure you set aside enough time for self-care . Exercise, sleep, and relaxation activities such as meditation or yoga are all great activities to reduce stress and improve your overall well-being. Additionally, seeking help when you need it is essential. Seek out your college's counseling services for further guidance when you feel overwhelmed or struggle with mental health issues.

By setting realistic goals, celebrating your achievements, and managing stress, you can maintain your motivation and mental health throughout your college journey. Remember, it's okay to ask for help when needed, and taking care of yourself is essential to your success.

Frequently Asked Questions About College Grades

How are college grades calculated.

Refer to your class syllabus for a comprehensive model, as each course has its own grading system. Typically, college grades are based on points accumulated from assessments like exams, writing assignments, projects, and participation. These assessments are assigned different weights that, along with your performance, calculate a weighted average for the final course grade.

Can I retake classes to improve my grade in college?

Many colleges and universities allow students to retake courses to improve their grades. The policies regarding retaking courses will vary among institutions. For some schools, only the higher grade earned in the retaken course will be counted, while in others, both the original and retaken grades may be factored into the GPA.

Is it important I participate in class discussions?

Active participation in class discussions demonstrates engagement and understanding of the material. It can also provide opportunities for deeper learning, clarification, and connection with the course content. Additionally, participation is important to your overall grade.

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Getting Good Grades

Helpful Tips & Tricks to Get Better Grades

Last Updated: September 15, 2024 Approved

This article was co-authored by Jennifer Kaifesh and by wikiHow staff writer, Hannah Madden . Jennifer Kaifesh is the Founder of Great Expectations College Prep, a tutoring and counseling service based in Southern California. Jennifer has over 15 years of experience managing and facilitating academic tutoring and standardized test prep as it relates to the college application process. She takes a personal approach to her tutoring, and focuses on working with students to find their specific mix of pursuits that they both enjoy and excel at. She is a graduate of Northwestern University. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article received 50 testimonials and 84% of readers who voted found it helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 2,248,770 times.

No matter how old we are, getting good grades is a goal for many of us. Juggling homework, tests, and projects can be tough, but with a little bit of effort and dedication, you can get (and keep) your grades up. Keep reading to learn how you can stay on top of your schoolwork and put your best foot forward during class.

The Best Ways to Get Good Grades

Write down homework, tests, and due dates in a planner.
Ask and answer questions in class.
Write down important concepts during class.
Study your notes and textbook for 10-20 minutes each day.
Go to your teacher or classmates for help.
Take a 15-minute break for every 45 minutes you study.

Get a planner.

A planner makes it easy to track homework, assignments, and due dates.

Every day when you get home from school, check your calendar and see what needs to be done before tomorrow, as well as what's on the horizon for the next few days. Check off what you have already done so you don’t get confused.

Participate in class.

Raise your hand to ask and answer questions.

If you’re an auditory learner, try recording the lectures so you can listen to them later on.
Your teacher will really appreciate it if you participate, especially if you’re one of the only people doing so. And if you get on their good side, they’re more likely to be lenient on you during the grading process.

Take good notes.

Write down the most relevant information during class.

To write notes quickly, try using shorthand instead of full sentences. For instance, if you’re in math class, shorten “geometry” to “geo” and “algebra” into “alg.”
Understand the 80/20 rule of studying: 80% of the test questions surround 20% of the most important concepts. If you are crammed for time figure out these core concepts by looking at past tests and study these first.

Ask your teacher for help.

Your teacher is there to answer any questions you might have.

Often things we're told one-on-one stick with us more than things we're just being lectured about.
If you’re a visual learner, try asking the teacher for handouts or study guides you can use.
If you’re a hands-on learner, your teacher might have suggestions for you on how you can translate your work into good study material.

Get a tutor if you need to.

You might struggle with some subjects, and that’s okay.

Your school might also have a tutoring center where you can go and get help from different departments.

Joseph Meyer

Review basic concepts before diving into advanced topics. Identifying the gaps in your knowledge helps you avoid difficulties later on. Take an assessment or get your teacher's advice on where you can improve. Practice targeted exercises to build a strong foundation so you can confidently tackle new lessons.

Make a study schedule.

Use your common sense when it comes to allotting time to specific classes. For example, Badminton needs a lot less time than the Principles of Celestial Mechanics.

Form a study group.

Studying with your friends can help you understand tough concepts.

This takes the information off the page and makes it fun and memorable. When you have to explain something to a friend, you think about it in a different way that can make it easier to understand.

Use memory tricks for memorization.

Mnemonic devices can help you remember tough information.

Associations work, too. If you're trying to remember that India used to be a British colony, picture the queen jogging laps around the Taj Mahal. When the test comes, you may not remember what you actually should remember, but you'll remember enough to jog your memory!

Study for 10 to 20 minutes every day instead of cramming.

Cramming isn’t the most effective way to retain information.

Try not to pull all-nighters before a test, either. If you’re tired and groggy, you won’t be able to think clearly and effectively.

Try practice tests.

They’ll help you prepare for the real thing.

There are tons of practice tests for big exams like the SAT or the ACT online.
If you have trouble finding a practice test, ask your teacher to give you one.

Take 15-minute breaks every 45 minutes.

Taking breaks gives your brain a chance to relax.

Make sure you do something on your break that’s actually relaxing. It will help you feel rested and ready to tackle the rest of your work.

Eat a good, healthy breakfast every day.

Studies show that breakfast can really put your best foot forward.

Pick a breakfast that’s both filling and nutritious. Go for oatmeal, toast, bagels, eggs, fresh fruit, yogurt, or granola to fuel your mind and your body.

Supercharge Your Studying with this Expert Series

Expert Q&A

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Don't worry about competing with people around you, as they may have other goals. Just work hard and try to achieve your own goals for yourself. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
At the end of each day, summarise the information you have learnt and put it in a different book. That way, when you want to do revision, you can see the key points quickly and easily, and not focus on the less important pieces of information. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Tips from our Readers

Prioritize your time! Do the most important and urgent things first, and the less important things later. Put away any distractions when you are doing something for school. You can look at it after you are done with your work as a reward!
Study by teaching the concepts to your friends, family, or even your stuffed animals. This is a great way to solidify your knowledge and show you what you need to focus on. Plus, it can be fun!
Redo the exercises you practiced in class to help you remember the concepts, methods, and any rules. This is especially helpful in science and math subjects.
Look up videos online for the subject you're learning about. Videos can help explain the topic and provide you with practice questions.

↑ Jennifer Kaifesh. Academic Tutor. Expert Interview. 8 November 2019.
↑ https://hbculifestyle.com/improve-your-grades-in-college/
↑ https://math.osu.edu/undergrad/non-majors/resources/good-grade
↑ https://www.umassd.edu/dss/resources/students/classroom-strategies/how-to-get-good-grades/
↑ https://www.oxfordlearning.com/benefits-of-tutoring/
↑ https://www.oxfordlearning.com/studying-alone-vs-studying-in-a-group/
↑ https://www.oxfordlearning.com/mnemonic-devices/
↑ https://www.psychologicalscience.org/news/releases/back-to-school-cramming-doesnt-work-in-the-long-run.html
↑ https://blog.collegeboard.org/how-to-improve-your-sat-score

About This Article

To get good grades, stay organized by keeping a planner with all of your assignments and upcoming tests in it. Make a study schedule for each week so you know exactly how much you should study for your classes. Make sure you take good notes and participate in class so you're more prepared for tests. Try to do your homework right after school every day so you don't procrastinate. If you feel like you're struggling with a subject, don't be afraid to ask your teacher for help or meet with a tutor. For more tips, like how to study for tests, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Tips for Writing an Effective Application Essay

Writing an essay for college admission gives you a chance to use your authentic voice and show your personality. It's an excellent opportunity to personalize your application beyond your academic credentials, and a well-written essay can have a positive influence come decision time.

Want to know how to draft an essay for your college application ? Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing.

Tips for Essay Writing

A typical college application essay, also known as a personal statement, is 400-600 words. Although that may seem short, writing about yourself can be challenging. It's not something you want to rush or put off at the last moment. Think of it as a critical piece of the application process. Follow these tips to write an impactful essay that can work in your favor.

1. Start Early.

Few people write well under pressure. Try to complete your first draft a few weeks before you have to turn it in. Many advisers recommend starting as early as the summer before your senior year in high school. That way, you have ample time to think about the prompt and craft the best personal statement possible.

You don't have to work on your essay every day, but you'll want to give yourself time to revise and edit. You may discover that you want to change your topic or think of a better way to frame it. Either way, the sooner you start, the better.

2. Understand the Prompt and Instructions.

Before you begin the writing process, take time to understand what the college wants from you. The worst thing you can do is skim through the instructions and submit a piece that doesn't even fit the bare minimum requirements or address the essay topic. Look at the prompt, consider the required word count, and note any unique details each school wants.

3. Create a Strong Opener.

Students seeking help for their application essays often have trouble getting things started. It's a challenging writing process. Finding the right words to start can be the hardest part.

Spending more time working on your opener is always a good idea. The opening sentence sets the stage for the rest of your piece. The introductory paragraph is what piques the interest of the reader, and it can immediately set your essay apart from the others.

4. Stay on Topic.

One of the most important things to remember is to keep to the essay topic. If you're applying to 10 or more colleges, it's easy to veer off course with so many application essays.

A common mistake many students make is trying to fit previously written essays into the mold of another college's requirements. This seems like a time-saving way to avoid writing new pieces entirely, but it often backfires. The result is usually a final piece that's generic, unfocused, or confusing. Always write a new essay for every application, no matter how long it takes.

5. Think About Your Response.

Don't try to guess what the admissions officials want to read. Your essay will be easier to write─and more exciting to read─if you’re genuinely enthusiastic about your subject. Here’s an example: If all your friends are writing application essays about covid-19, it may be a good idea to avoid that topic, unless during the pandemic you had a vivid, life-changing experience you're burning to share. Whatever topic you choose, avoid canned responses. Be creative.

6. Focus on You.

Essay prompts typically give you plenty of latitude, but panel members expect you to focus on a subject that is personal (although not overly intimate) and particular to you. Admissions counselors say the best essays help them learn something about the candidate that they would never know from reading the rest of the application.

7. Stay True to Your Voice.

Use your usual vocabulary. Avoid fancy language you wouldn't use in real life. Imagine yourself reading this essay aloud to a classroom full of people who have never met you. Keep a confident tone. Be wary of words and phrases that undercut that tone.

8. Be Specific and Factual.

Capitalize on real-life experiences. Your essay may give you the time and space to explain why a particular achievement meant so much to you. But resist the urge to exaggerate and embellish. Admissions counselors read thousands of essays each year. They can easily spot a fake.

9. Edit and Proofread.

When you finish the final draft, run it through the spell checker on your computer. Then don’t read your essay for a few days. You'll be more apt to spot typos and awkward grammar when you reread it. After that, ask a teacher, parent, or college student (preferably an English or communications major) to give it a quick read. While you're at it, double-check your word count.

Writing essays for college admission can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. A well-crafted essay could be the deciding factor─in your favor. Keep these tips in mind, and you'll have no problem creating memorable pieces for every application.

What is the format of a college application essay?

Generally, essays for college admission follow a simple format that includes an opening paragraph, a lengthier body section, and a closing paragraph. You don't need to include a title, which will only take up extra space. Keep in mind that the exact format can vary from one college application to the next. Read the instructions and prompt for more guidance.

Most online applications will include a text box for your essay. If you're attaching it as a document, however, be sure to use a standard, 12-point font and use 1.5-spaced or double-spaced lines, unless the application specifies different font and spacing.

How do you start an essay?

The goal here is to use an attention grabber. Think of it as a way to reel the reader in and interest an admissions officer in what you have to say. There's no trick on how to start a college application essay. The best way you can approach this task is to flex your creative muscles and think outside the box.

You can start with openers such as relevant quotes, exciting anecdotes, or questions. Either way, the first sentence should be unique and intrigue the reader.

What should an essay include?

Every application essay you write should include details about yourself and past experiences. It's another opportunity to make yourself look like a fantastic applicant. Leverage your experiences. Tell a riveting story that fulfills the prompt.

What shouldn’t be included in an essay?

When writing a college application essay, it's usually best to avoid overly personal details and controversial topics. Although these topics might make for an intriguing essay, they can be tricky to express well. If you’re unsure if a topic is appropriate for your essay, check with your school counselor. An essay for college admission shouldn't include a list of achievements or academic accolades either. Your essay isn’t meant to be a rehashing of information the admissions panel can find elsewhere in your application.

How can you make your essay personal and interesting?

The best way to make your essay interesting is to write about something genuinely important to you. That could be an experience that changed your life or a valuable lesson that had an enormous impact on you. Whatever the case, speak from the heart, and be honest.

Is it OK to discuss mental health in an essay?

Mental health struggles can create challenges you must overcome during your education and could be an opportunity for you to show how you’ve handled challenges and overcome obstacles. If you’re considering writing your essay for college admission on this topic, consider talking to your school counselor or with an English teacher on how to frame the essay.

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How to Get Good Grades in High School

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The transition to high school causes academic whiplash for many students. It’s hard to adapt to a new environment and get good grades when you’re given more independence in your assignments and are expected to learn more challenging materials.

In this guide, I’ll go through the most important strategies that will help you to get good grades in high school and beyond.

Basic Academic Survival Strategies

Let's start with the most fundamental strategies for getting good grades. A strong foundation is the key to success!

Strategy #1: Read Directions and Rubrics Carefully

Read the directions thoroughly on every assignment you get. If you don’t follow the directions, you won’t get a good grade even if what you do would be considered solid work on a slightly different project. If your teacher tells you to write a seven-page essay, and you only write five, you'll get points taken off even if you do a good job. Don't sacrifice your grade just because you were careless or chose to ignore the instructions!

Sometimes when students misinterpret directions, they blame the teacher for giving them a bad grade. Even if you disagree with the structure of an assignment, being stubborn about it probably won’t get you anywhere. You should re-educate yourself on the expectations for the class so that you don’t give the teacher another chance to deduct points from your assignments. In these cases, you’re probably just dealing with a strict teacher who likes to stick to very specific guidelines. Once you know what the his or her standards are, you will be able to reliably earn high grades.

Strategy #2: Listen and Participate in Class

A trait that is consistent in people who get good grades is that they pay attention in class. You may think that you can just space out in class, study hard later, and ace the test. If school has always been a breeze for you, this might be true up to a point, but it will catch up with you when you run into something that isn’t as easy to understand.

If you pay attention in class, you’ll spend less time studying in the long run. Why is this? It’s because you’ve already absorbed a lot of the information you need to know just by being engaged while your teacher is talking.

You can even go a step farther and take notes in class to reinforce what you’re learning in a different way. It's smart to get into this habit before college so that you don’t struggle with note taking in lecture classes. If you learn how to summarize the main points of a lesson now, it will be easier for you to take notes at times when they’re even more critical.

Class participation is another big part of this. Participation is important for a couple of reasons. First and foremost, it might be a part of your grade! In some cases, class participation accounts for ten percent or more of your final grade. Even if it isn't a part of your grade, participating in class will help you understand the material more thoroughly and let the teacher know that you care about the subject.

For me, class participation was always very difficult because I was shy and afraid that I would say the wrong thing. If you have this issue, I would recommend sitting as close to the front of the classroom as possible so that it feels like you’re just talking to the teacher and not addressing the whole class. Also, try not to overthink it! I can’t tell you how many times I had an answer in my head that I decided was dumb only to hear someone else say it thirty seconds later. Even if your answer is incorrect, you should view it as a learning opportunity that may help you to understand the material better.

Strategy #3: Ask for Help Sooner Rather Than Later

Often, the key to success is knowing when to ask for help, and high school classes are no exception. If you don’t understand a concept, don’t wait until you’ve already bombed a test to get help. Approach your teacher as soon as possible, and ask if he or she would be willing to meet you after school to go over the material. By doing this, you can avoid bad grades before they happen and build a positive relationship with your teacher.

Of course, all of this is easier said than done. It's hard to ask for help if your teacher is less friendly or you’re a super independent person. If you’re worried about approaching your teacher, stick to a script. You can just say “Teacher’s Name, I’m having some difficulty understanding this unit. I was wondering if you might be able to talk through the main concepts with me after school at some point. I’ll come up with a list of my questions.”

If you prepare a list of questions for your teacher, it will be easier for you to get the information you need and for your teacher to explain things in a way that is helpful to you. You should also remember that there’s absolutely no shame in asking for help. It’s really the smartest thing you can do if you’re struggling, and it will only lead to better grades in the future.

Strategy #4: Don’t Rely on Your Family and Friends Too Much

Another way of saying this is “don’t cheat,” but sometimes the definition of cheating can be nebulous. If you and your friends help each other on a homework assignment, that’s probably fine depending on the distribution of work. However, if you directly copy a friend’s homework (even if they say it’s ok), it’s definitely a form of cheating whether or not the homework counts toward your grade.

Avoid doing this, especially if you want to get good grades in the long term. If you copy your friends’ homework assignments, you’re committing self-sabotage. I know it’s a cliche that you only hurt yourself by cheating, but in this case it's true. If you rely too heavily on the knowledge of others for small assignments, larger assignments like tests and papers will be even more difficult since you never learned the material for yourself.

Also, don't let your parents edit your papers extensively or do the bulk of the work in figuring out homework problems. They probably mean well, but it will do you more harm than good if you’re not learning on your own terms. Eventually, you’ll have to write an essay or solve math problems on a test, and you may fall short of your potential if you don't have experience doing these things independently.

Expert Study Strategies

Many students have trouble getting good grades in high school because they don't know how to study effectively. Here are a few of the best ways to improve your test scores through the use of smart study strategies.

Strategy #5: Always Do the Homework (Even If It Doesn’t Count!)

Most teachers in high school assign regular homework, although some may not check it or incorporate it directly into your grade. Some students view this as a free pass to ignore homework assignments, which can is a very bad idea. In subjects like math and science in particular, homework assignments are critical if you want to gain full comprehension of the material. In math, your understanding of one unit of study is often a necessary foundation for your understanding of the next unit. Knowledge builds on itself.

If you start skipping homework assignments, you may get confused when the teacher moves on to a new unit. Ultimately, you could become completely lost and perform poorly on assignments that do count towards your grade.

Doing homework assignments will also help you psychologically. If you’re staying on top of things in a class, you'll be more confident in your knowledge. Homework assignments are a way of studying consistently over time. If you do the homework, you may not have to study as much for tests because you’ll already have a solid understanding of what you need to know.

Strategy #6: Know the Difference Between Reading It Over and “Getting It”

Just reading over the material before a test won't cut it unless you have a photographic memory. You need to actively absorb the information, not just skim over it and hope it will stick in your brain. Surface-level knowledge won't help you, especially when you're dealing with open-ended questions on a test. You should be able to recall the facts without any hints or prompting.

If you have review sheets to study before a test, I would recommend reading them in small, manageable sections. After you read each section carefully, look away from it and see if you can repeat the facts back to yourself. Don’t move on from a section until you’re able to do this.

One thing that I’ve found very helpful in cases like this is to make up some sort of weird mnemonic. It can be an acronym or just something memorable that has a random association with the information you need to know. The more bizarre the memory device you come up with, the more likely you are to remember the facts.

After you’ve read everything over yourself and feel relatively confident, you can have someone else step in and quiz you on the information. To be sure that you have a full understanding of what you need to know, you should be able to answer questions about how different facts connect to each other rather than just regurgitating the facts themselves. For example, if you’re studying for a history test, you might have someone ask you a question like “what were the main factors that led to the French Revolution” that requires you to draw from a few distinct facts to reach a separate conclusion.

Strategy #7: Study Between Tests, Don’t Cram

There is a certain glamour for some students in the late-night pre-test cram session. However, sacrificing your sleep and sanity will not get you a better grade on the test (no matter how much cooler it might be than planning ahead).

The best way to ensure that you don’t panic before a test (or on the test itself) is to make a habit of going over the material that you’ve learned regularly and not just when it gets down to the wire. You’ll retain it better, and you’ll get a good night’s sleep to recharge your brain.

In the week before a big test, you can study for an hour or so every night rather than studying for five hours the night before. As you build up your knowledge, you’ll feel more and more confident. On the night before the test, instead of trying to study every little detail that you need to know, you can do a quick review of the main concepts to reassure yourself that you’re in good shape.

Strategies for Structuring Your Work

Strategy #8: make project timelines (don’t procrastinate).

If you hope to earn high grades without suffering from excessive amounts of stress, you must overcome your procrastination habits. It's especially hard to manage your time responsibly on long-term projects. It may seem like you have forever to complete the assignment, but time will always catch up with you.

If you're a procrastinator, I highly recommend making a timeline whenever you get a long-term assignment. If you have a project that’s due in a month, set aside the first week for brainstorming, make a rough outline of the project in the second week, flesh it out as much as possible in the third week, and spend the rest of your time perfecting it. This is a vague timeline because it depends on the type of project you’re doing and what it involves, but you get the idea.

If you save the last week for polishing your work and fixing mistakes, you’ll end up with a final product that’s a much better representation of your abilities. Sticking to a schedule like this can be tough, so you might want to ask your teacher to help monitor your progress by checking in with you periodically. Some teachers already set up checkpoints for longer term projects because they know students have trouble avoiding procrastination. If this is the case, stick to the schedule and avoid falling behind!

Strategy #9: Stay Organized

Many of these tips will be useless if you don’t keep track of all the materials for your classes. Cultivating good organizational habits will not only help you succeed in high school; it will pay off in spades when you get to college as well.

Always mark the beginning of each new unit in your notebook, and keep a binder or folder for each class. This way, when you study for tests, you won’t be freaking out about where a certain review sheet went or why there seems to be nothing relevant in your notebook. Avoid just throwing papers into your backpack. I’ve made the mistake of doing this many times in the past, and you WILL forget where you put them when you need them most.

It's also a good idea to write down your homework assignments in an agenda book so that you don’t miss anything. It’s easy to forget about smaller assignments if your brain is focused on a big project or test that’s coming up. Even if you don’t have a concrete homework assignment in every class, you should make note of any potential work you might do that night. If you have light assignments in your other classes, this will remind you to catch up on a long term project or start studying a bit for a test that’s coming up in a week.

What's Next?

Worried about your GPA? Here are four strategies for raising your GPA in high school fast.

If you're not sure whether your GPA is high enough for your goals, read this article on what a good GPA means for college.

Still trying to figure out your courses? Check out our expert guide on which classes you should take in high school.

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points? We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download them for free now:

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Samantha is a blog content writer for PrepScholar. Her goal is to help students adopt a less stressful view of standardized testing and other academic challenges through her articles. Samantha is also passionate about art and graduated with honors from Dartmouth College as a Studio Art major in 2014. In high school, she earned a 2400 on the SAT, 5's on all seven of her AP tests, and was named a National Merit Scholar.

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I ensure that each paragraph contributes meaningfully to the overall narrative, enhancing the cohesion and persuasiveness of your essay. 6. Mastering the Art of Analysis and Critical Thinking. Mastering the art of analysis and critical thinking transcends mere description, delving into the realms of "why" and "how.".
The Ultimate Essay Writing Guides: Tips, Tricks, and Templates
Tips for Crafting an A+ Essay. 1. Understand the Assignment: Before you start writing, make sure you fully understand the assignment guidelines and requirements. If you have any doubts, clarify them with your instructor. 2. Conduct Thorough Research: Gather relevant sources and information to support your arguments.
How to Achieve Higher Essay Grades (In Just Ten Minutes)
7 steps to higher essay grades using your tutor feedback. 1. Grab your marked essay and all tutor feedback. 2. Scan your feedback for positive comments from your tutor. Look for things you did RIGHT and note them down as a reminder to continue doing those things. 3.
27 Outstanding College Essay Examples From Top Universities 2024
This college essay tip is by Abigail McFee, Admissions Counselor for Tufts University and Tufts '17 graduate. 2. Write like a journalist. "Don't bury the lede!" The first few sentences must capture the reader's attention, provide a gist of the story, and give a sense of where the essay is heading.
How to Get Good Grades in College
Students who earn good grades do all the basics: go to class, do the homework and ask for help. How to Get Good Grades in College. One key for maintaining good grades in college is leaning on the ...
How to Boost Your Grades: 6 Superb Essay Writing Tips
Checking the marking criteria for your course or school can therefore help you hone your essays. 4. Write Concisely. Less is often more in academic writing, as overly wordy essays can be difficult to follow. Being concise, on the other hand, will boost the clarity of your written work and make your arguments more persuasive. 5.
12 Strategies to Writing the Perfect College Essay
Starting your essay in a powerful way with a clear thesis statement can often help you along in the writing process. If your task is to tell a good story, a bold beginning can be a natural prelude to getting there, serving as a roadmap, engaging the reader from the start, and presenting the purpose of your writing. Focus on Deeper Themes
How to Write the Best College Application Essay
1. Open Strong. Knowing how to start a college essay can create a strong opening paragraph that immediately captures the reader's interest. You want to make the admissions officer reading your essay curious about what you say next. 2. Show You Can Write.
Ultimate Guide to Writing Your College Essay
Sample College Essay 2 with Feedback. This content is licensed by Khan Academy and is available for free at www.khanacademy.org. College essays are an important part of your college application and give you the chance to show colleges and universities your personality. This guide will give you tips on how to write an effective college essay.
How to Write a College Essay
Making an all-state team → outstanding achievement. Making an all-state team → counting the cost of saying "no" to other interests. Making a friend out of an enemy → finding common ground, forgiveness. Making a friend out of an enemy → confront toxic thinking and behavior in yourself.
How to Get Good Grades in College: 16 Best Tips
Understand your course expectations. If there is anything that you are unsure of, don't hesitate to ask your professor to clarify. 3. Stay Organized. If you want to know how to get even better grades, organization is really key. Use a planner or calendar and make sure that you are up to date with all of your deadlines.
How to Get a 4.0 GPA and Better Grades by a Harvard Alum
Section 2: Overall Planning and Habits. In order to get a 4.0 GPA, you need more than just the right mindset— you need to cultivate effective study habits. This section goes over how to plan out your study schedule so that you're on track to getting a 4.0.
35+ Best College Essay Tips from College Application Experts
Use your essays to empower your chances of acceptance, merit money, and scholarships.". This college essay tip is by Dr. Rebecca Joseph, professor at California State University and founder of All College Application Essays, develops tools for making the college essay process faster and easier. 15. Get personal.
How to Write a College Paper (Get an A+ on Your Essay)
Instead, start with your evidence. Read the essay prompt and make a list of the crucial evidence. Use your notes on the reading to pull out the strongest building blocks for your case. Write down examples you want to pull from lectures. Collect a list of the best quotes from the readings. And look at your outline.
14 Ways to Improve Your Grades if You're Underperforming
1. Adopt a positive mental attitude. In the face of lower-than-expected grades, it's only human to react by feeling disappointed with oneself. When you're frequently receiving lower grades than you'd hoped for, you may start to feel depressed or defeated, and feel like giving up.
How to write a college application essay: 7 tips + step-by-step how-to
Step 0: choose a structure. By "structure," we mean what you'll use to organize your essay's content in a way that helps your reader understand clearly and easily. We'll talk through two structural options below: "montage" and "narrative.". Some quick definitions:
How to Improve Your Grades in College
It turns out that students who attend office hours do better in class. Attend a professor's office hours early in the term to introduce yourself or visit before a test to review concepts. There's a good chance the visit could help improve your grades. 5. Avoid Late Penalties.
How to Get Good Grades
1. Set Goals. One of the best things you want to get good grades is to set goals. Setting goals helps give you something to aim for, which can provide motivation. SMART goals, in particular, allow you to create clearly defined targets that are realistic and measurable. And keep in mind - you can always change the goals later.
How to Get Good Grades in College
College is among the most popular paths taken by high school graduates. It is the first step in gaining the knowledge to accomplish career aspirations.This path carries significant responsibility and pressure to excel, as future employers and grad school often rely on grades to indicate your abilities.. Getting good college grades requires academic skills, time management, motivation, and self ...
How to Get Good Grades in School: 12 Easy & Effective Ways
The Best Ways to Get Good Grades. Write down homework, tests, and due dates in a planner. Ask and answer questions in class. Write down important concepts during class. Study your notes and textbook for 10-20 minutes each day. Go to your teacher or classmates for help.
How to Format a College Essay: Step-by-Step Guide
Again, we'd recommend sticking with standard fonts and sizes—Times New Roman, 12-point is a standard workhorse. You can probably go with 1.5 or double spacing. Standard margins. Basically, show them you're ready to write in college by using the formatting you'll normally use in college.
Tips for Writing an Effective Application Essay
Follow these tips to write an impactful essay that can work in your favor. 1. Start Early. Few people write well under pressure. Try to complete your first draft a few weeks before you have to turn it in. Many advisers recommend starting as early as the summer before your senior year in high school.
How to Get Good Grades in High School
Read the directions thoroughly on every assignment you get. If you don't follow the directions, you won't get a good grade even if what you do would be considered solid work on a slightly different project. If your teacher tells you to write a seven-page essay, and you only write five, you'll get points taken off even if you do a good job.