THAT Student: Study Tips for A Successful Year

Earning straight A’s isn’t just about being a genius or pulling all-nighters before exams—it’s about building everyday habits that set you up for success. Whether in high school or university, a little focus, discipline, and a few innovative strategies can make a big difference to your academic performance.

Here are some essential tips to help you become that student—one step at a time!

1. Set Clear Goals

The start of the school year is the perfect time to define your academic goals. Maybe you want to boost your grades, develop better study habits, or join a new club. Whatever your goals, write them down, be specific and check in on them regularly to stay motivated throughout the year.

That Girl Tip: Make your goals SMART—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

2. Stay Organised

A little organisation can go a long way. Use a planner or digital calendar to record assignments, deadlines, and exams so you never miss important dates. Colour-coding your notebooks or folders can help you quickly locate materials for each class or subject, making study sessions more efficient. Maintaining a tidy study space is also important, as it supports motivation and improves concentration. Choose a study spot where you feel calm and focused, whether it's a quiet corner at home, the library, or a café.

3. Engage Actively in Class

Active participation in class can significantly improve your learning experience.

Take Notes and Ask Questions:

Take notes during lectures, ask questions when concepts are unclear, and engage in class discussions to further your understanding.

Build Connections with Your Teachers:

Reach out and build a relationship; teachers can offer guidance, support, mentorship, and opportunities for further learning and experiences.

Join a Study Group:

Form study groups to share ideas and explain concepts with fellow students. You’ll learn from one another, share ideas, and gain different perspectives, ultimately enriching your understanding and making the study process more enjoyable.

4. Manage Your Time Wisely

Balancing homework, classes, clubs, and downtime isn’t easy, but a few time management tricks can help:

Make a Simple Schedule:

Use a planner or calendar app to map your day, including study time, classes, breaks, and personal time. A little planning goes a long way!

Tackle the Most Important Things First:

Focus on what matters most each day, so important assignments don’t pile up.

Try Time Blocking:

Create a simple schedule that allocates dedicated time to each subject, and remember to take regular breaks. Techniques like the Pomodoro method (25 minutes of work, 5 minutes of break) help you stay on track and improve your concentration while you study. Focusing on one thing at a time helps keep distractions away and allows you to get more done—no more frantic multitasking!

5. Seek Help When Needed

There is no shame in asking for help. If you are struggling with a particular subject, don’t hesitate to contact your teachers for clarification or additional resources. Consider tutoring options, whether through school programs or study groups. Many campuses also have counselling services for stress management and academic pressure. Studying can feel incredibly overwhelming and even lonely at times. Still, you never have to struggle alone, so reach out to fellow students, tutors, family, and friends for extra support when needed.

6. Take Care of Your Well-Being

Remember, your health comes first. Eating well, getting enough sleep, and exercising can significantly impact how you feel and perform at school. Make time for things you enjoy and practice mindfulness to balance your mind and destress. If things ever feel overwhelming, talk to someone you trust. You don’t have to sacrifice all the fun aspects of your life to achieve good grades. It’s okay to take breaks, spend time with friends and family, and enjoy your hobbies. A healthy balance keeps you motivated and helps prevent burnout.

With these tips, you can take on the school year with confidence! Build positive habits, stay motivated, and enjoy a successful year. Learning is a journey, so face the challenges, celebrate your progress, and embrace your academic and personal growth. You’ve got this!