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Have a plan and stick to it
Having a comprehensive study plan, covering all areas and subject, is vital to getting better grades in school. There are a range of apps and tools you can use for this, but when a simple pen and paper will suffice.
Scheduling in time for study will make sure it gets done, if you’re committed. Try to avoid blocking out hours at a time, as you may get burnt out. Try planning for 30 to 45 minutes of study, followed by a 10 or 15 minute break. This will help to keep you focused.
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Take notes, notes and more notes
While sitting in a class or lecture it can be easy to switch off or become distracted and miss something the teacher was explaining. To avoid this, have your pen and paper ready from the first minute of the class, and take notes on everything being discussed. Not only will this help you to remember what you’re learning, you can turn to it at a later date when you may have started to forget about it.
Buddy up with classmates and share notes – there’ll probably be something you missed which you can get from a friend.
Use a system to store and file your notes, rather than just carrying round a pad with everything unorganised. It’ll make things much easier when it comes to revising.
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Use all available resources
Most schools will have a library where you can take out books related to your subjects and classes. Make full use of this free resource. There’s nothing worse than sitting down to study only to find you need a certain textbook which you don’t have. Plan ahead and understand which books you might need to study.
Many schools will also offer learning support. If you feel like you’re struggling to take things in, or need some assistance with your study plan, try to book in some time with a learning support advisor and get yourself back on track.
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Consider taking extra classes
Taking extra classes is not uncommon and can be a great way to cram in some additional knowledge or learn a completely new subject. Many schools will offer this facility over the summer. You could also look at organisations which offer dedicated summer courses.