By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

 

If you’re facing a GPA-tanking class, here’s what you can do to improve your grades.

• When signing up for classes, make sure you aced — and not just barely passed — the prerequisite classes. If you initially find you’re in way over your head, eliminate the class during the add/drop period so it won’t ding your grades.

• Carefully read the syllabus. Sometimes students completely miss ways they can earn more points towards their grades.

• You need to plan for tests and avoid cramming the night before. Some people claim they work better under pressure, but they really don’t. Taking the time to internalize and truly learn the material will result in better grades and better education.

• For completing projects and papers, pace yourself so you can work to the best of your ability. For example, create a brainstorming list three weeks before the paper is due. A few days later, write the outline. In a couple of days, write the introductory paragraph and conclusion. The following week, write a rough draft. A couple of days later, edit and polish it. Revisit it next week to perform final edits before you send it in. You will find your work will improve considerably.

• Prioritize your time. Focus on what comprises a greater percentage of your grade. For example, if tests are 40% of your grade but papers are only 15%, spend more time studying and less time on papers if you have to choose between the two. Ideally, work hard at both.

• Look for any extra credit you can complete. If the syllabus does not offer extra credit options, ask the instructor.

• Find a tutor. SUNY Oswego offers resources that can help you. Or ask someone in your class who gets good grades.

• Join a study group. It’s not one-on-one like tutoring, and some people prefer the group environment for preparing for exams.

• Get back to basics. Read the book and attend each lecture. Take notes. Review the notes periodically and not just for testing. This can help you really internalize the material.

• Learn your study style. Some people learn better by creating flashcards; others are auditory learners and (with permission) find that recording their class lectures and listening to them helps them learn better. Still others find that discussing the class notes with other people is best.

• Talk with your professors. It’s likely they know you’re struggling but it’s your responsibility to take that step. Don’t feel embarrassed. It’s a sign of maturity to admit when you need help and to own your share of the blame for your low grades. Your professors want you to succeed and will offer suggestions that can help you.