A high GPA can be important to landing a good job out of the university or if you want to pursue higher education opportunities. Here are 12 easy ways you can raise your student GPA before it’s too late.
1. Always Go To ClassThis is too important to not mention. Skipping class can make you look bad in the eyes of your lecturers. Since grades are somewhat subjective, it’s a good idea to avoid irritating the person who will be handing out the marks. As a university student you must make attendance your priority so as to get the A you deserve.
2. Form or Join a Study groupBeing a part of a study group is one of the best ways to stay on track and raise your GPA. Study groups not only make you accountable, they also force you to become more organised and talk about what you have learned. If you can’t find a study group to join, try forming one yourself.
3. Do Not Be a Back SeaterSitting towards the front and doing your best to be attentive is something you must do in the University. When you sit towards the front you are more likely to maintain focus and develop a relationship with the person who will be giving out your grade.
4. Develop a Note Taking System That WorksDifferent Lecturers have different teaching styles. Some lecturers make use power point slides and some depend on handouts and textbooks. The inconsistency can make note-taking problematic from class to class. The best way to handle this is to develop a note-taking system that works with each professor’s teaching style.
5. Participate In ClassIf you’re shy or new to the University life, it can be difficult to muster enough courage to participate in class. Nevertheless, that is exactly what you need to do. Class participation shows the professor you are eager to learn. It also increases the likelihood that you will remember material from class to class.
6. Be Friends With Someone With A High GPAYou’re bound to make lots of friends in the University. If you can, try to spend some time with a study buddy who has a high GPA. Your smart friend will be able to help you out when you struggle and may prove to be a good influence should you feel the urge to slack.
7. Develop a Study StrategyIf you don’t have a study strategy, you can study all day and night and still not get anywhere. The only sure way to make the most of your study time is to employ a study strategy that complements your schedule and learning style.
8. Read OftenYou should read everything that is assigned to you and then some. Reading a lot makes you a better thinker, better writer and, most importantly, better student.
9. Take Every Class Seriously
Although certain classes are more interesting (and more important) than others, it’s essential that you take every class seriously. If you can maintain a good grade in each class, it will make a huge difference on your overall grade point average.
10. Gather a List Of Resources
The sooner you can get started on your assignments, the better. Try keeping a list of proven information sources, web apps and other dependable resources so that you can find something the second you need it. The saved time can be used to study, have fun or just sleep.
11. Make the Library your Second Friend
Hostel rooms aren’t the best place to study. It’s way too easy to get distracted by roommates and visitors. Your study time can be more productive if you use your school’s library or a similar facility. Every time you enter that building, your mind will shift into work mode and stay there until you decide to leave.
12. Have a GPA Calculator
Knowing how different grades and credit hours affect your GPA is essential if you want to have more control over the numbers. Try pumping a few numbers and grades into a GPA calculator to get your current and cumulative GPA. Then, change a few grades or credit hours to see the difference they can make in your overall average.