How To Make Good Grades In College – A Teacher Trainee Advises Others

Have you thought of “How To Make Good Grades In College” as a would-be teacher? Do you have challenges studying and making the grades needed to excel? This write by a Teacher Trainee is all you need to get started.

In college, getting good grades is essential. As a student teacher, a strong academic record can open doors for you in the future.
More importantly through the process of becoming an “A” student, you’ll learn certain values like hard work, discipline, determination, and perseverance, hence it is important to pursue academic excellence. Just don’t let it become an unhealthy obsession.

Make Good Grades In College

I have come up with some study rules/ tips that will guide us to get good grades. Now let us explore these rules

1. Always have a plan.

You need to plan your studies and create your own personal timetable. You may also schedule a fixed time every week where you will review your events. Mark down when you’ll start preparing for that Science test, working on that Math project. This way, you’ll be studying smart not just hard.

2. Be organized

Have you ever had trouble finding your notes or assignments when you needed them? You probably ended up wasting your precious time looking for them. Being organized; it’s easier said than done. You may organize your project works, assignments or tests accordingly in a file so as not to waste time looking for them.

3. Take care of your physical health

Most students are constantly tired and sleep-deprived. They can’t focus in class, they lack energy and enthusiasm and they daydream. Is it possible to be an “A” student when you’re in this kind of physical state? Perhaps, but it’s unlikely. Physical health is the foundation of academic excellence, you don’t need to have the physique of an Olympic level athlete to be an “A” student but you do need to take care of your body, you need to have enough sleep.
Take in balanced diets and drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day.
Exercise regularly,
And eat lots of fruits.

4. Try your best to attend all lectures.

This will help you understand the lessons, ask questions and move along with the class in teaching and learning activities.

5. Manage your time wisely.

Time once wasted can not be replenished hence the effective use of time in college will help. This will often require a planned school week and study timetable. 

6. Take notes during lectures.

Taking notes during lectures remains one of the best ways to record information on specific topics treated. The notes should be written often in your own understanding of the concepts being taught. 

7. Be an active listener.

Students must pay close attention during lectures if they are to pick the key information provided. If you are attentive, you can be an active listener. 

8. Participate in class.

Taking part in class discussions, asking questions, and engaging in group-related academic work does not only help you learn what is being taught but also, you learn how to work in teams and with others. 

If you ask questions, you are more likely to remember the material as the answers to your questions relating to your thoughts on the subject. Listen to others opinions and contribute to discussions.

9.Develop good writing and study habits

Develop good writing and study habits if you want to make good grades in College. Knowing the facts in a given topic is not enough if you are to excel. Mastering the way to communicate this information in examinations and quizzes is equally important. Mastering the best study habits and skills can also influence the grades you obtain. 

10. Always study in a distraction-free environment.

Learning for many students is best done in a clean, quiet environment where there is no distraction. Your mobile phones, friends, and other activities that can deprive you of a good learning environment should be avoided when you are studying. 

11. Learn in groups and learn from one another.

Studying in groups can break up the monotony of revision. You’ll have the opportunity to learn from others. Make sure when you’re studying in a group, it does not turn into a social event and you don’t get distracted by unrelated conversation.

Read: 9 exam hall safety precautions to avoid examination failure

12. Know your learning style.

To become a better learner in order to get good grades, you need to know the method by which you learn best. Once you’ve done this, you’ll have a clearer idea of how to help yourself process, absorb, and memorize information. Know whether you’re a visual learner, auditory, reading, and writing learner, or kinesthetic learner (VAK module). Assess yourself!

13. Have short breaks in between personal studies.

Studying for long hours without breaks is not helpful. It is suggested that students should take ten to fifteen minutes breaks after every 45 minutes of study. This helps relax the brain and refresh it for the net lesson or study period. 

14. Ask for help from your tutors.

If you have problems understanding a concept, approach them for help. Do not view this as a weakness. They are there to assist you, so feel free to approach them.

Read: Effects of overstudying & how to prevent It

15. Study constantly.

These are just a few tips or rules to help you. Focus on one rule/ tip at a time and stick to it to become a habit. It could take years to learn these rules so don’t rush the process. Remember, straight ‘A’s on their own don’t mean much. The process of becoming a straight “A” student is what counts.

As you implement these rules/ tips, you’ll become more disciplined, responsible, and self-motivated. These traits are essential for long-term success.

READ: Good Memory Techniques for BECE and WASSCE Candidates

Therefore, start building the foundation of school success to get good grades; one day at a time, one habit at a time, and one rule/tip at a time!