I have officially completed my first semester of college. After a lot of studying and hard work, I’m glad to say that I’ve achieved my goal of a 4.0 this semester. Here are nine tips for how you can, too.
Of course, GPA isn't something you should get over-stressed about. Although, for those of you planning on going to a graduate school, having a high GPA is very important. You can use these nine tips to try to get a 4.0 or to give your GPA a boost.
Even if you already have an A in the class, do it anyways. It’ll give you some piece of mind that your grade is secure and it helps to stress a little less when exams come around.
2. Don’t procrastinate
It’s easy to do and I definitely do sometimes, but try not to procrastinate. Studying for a test last minute or writing a paper the day before it’s due is never going to be your best work. It’s much less stressful if you start early and work on an assignment at a good pace.
3. Go to classes
This may seem very obvious, but seriously, don’t skip class unless you absolutely have to.
4. Rewrite, rewrite, rewrite
When I’m studying for a test, I like to write out anything that I’m having trouble remembering two or three times.
4. Work hard
It may go without saying, but getting good grades takes a ton of hard work. You have to put school first and genuinely do your best. Always put getting your homework and studying done before hanging out with friends or going to events.
5. Take a Break
When you’re working hard, you need mental breaks to avoid burn out. Find things to do everyday that break up your study time but won't waste half the day. For me, that might be going to club meeting or a quick campus event, eating lunch with friends, or going for a walk.
6. Work ahead when you can
Notice I said when you can. Staying ahead all the time is unrealistic because life happens. However, if you can get a bit ahead on reading and assignments before the semester starts or over break, it’ll make things much less stressful. For example, a few times last semester, I got a week ahead in my English reading when I knew I would have an insanely busy week coming up. Just that little bit of time saved, made the week go smoother and gave me a little more time to study for tests.
7. Time management and routine
Use your planner and manage your time well. Even though college is mostly about learning, there are always a lot of things coming up.
Between working, clubs, and other commitments, it can be hard to squeeze everything into 24 hours. Try to get into a good routine and stick with it. Find where and what times you get your best work done and make sure those times are blocked out for studying and homework. For example, I get my best work done in the morning and in the library.
8. Take care of yourself
Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, drinking enough water, and eating (at least somewhat) healthy. You may not think that taking care of yourself can help with your grades, but getting a good night sleep can do wonders when you’re studying. Coffee is unavoidable in college and has been a lifesaver for me on many occasions, but just make sure that you’re drinking enough water to stay hydrated. Lastly, try to get some fresh air everyday and stay active.
9. Plan Everything
As I mentioned above, always use a planner. Find what works best for you. I like using google calendar and a paper planner. I put everything into both including classes, homework, club meetings, work, meeting up with friends, studying, etc. This keeps you from forgetting assignments until the last minute or other commitments, which is easy to do with a busy schedule. I also like to make an assignment list like the one on Dani Dearest.
I hope these tips help you to boost your grades! Let me know works best for you. Follow me on Bloglovin, Pinterest, & Etsy. You can sign up for my monthly newsletter here.
- Serena
