Why Are My Grades So Low?
There are a number of reasons as to why your grades could be so low. Look below for most of the primary reasons along with some solutions and advice.
- Are you a poor test taker?
- Learn to tell the difference between questions you might know and questions you do not know.
- Spend more time working on the ones you might know and the remaining time on the ones you do not know at all.
- Do NOT second-guess yourself unless you are 100% sure you marked the wrong answer.
- On most exams, the unanswered question is considered wrong; your odds increase with the marking of any answer.
- The correct answer is ALWAYS on the test; your job is to find it.
- Are you attending class?
- Attending class is often free points on your final grade.
- You build a rapport with instructors and they get to know you.
- Set your alarm clock and go, Go, GO!
- Nothing is more important than getting to class except your health.
- Are you spending too much time on social activities?
- Do not let “college life” interfere with your academics.
- Take time for yourself to study and do your best.
- Complete as much of your studying and homework before 5pm so that you have your evenings free to do what you want.
- If you have a disability, are you using your accommodations?
- Extended test time and alternate test locations can assist with test anxiety and give you the extra push you need to succeed.
- Note-taking will give you pieces of information you might miss in lecture (cannot receive them if absent or absent-minded).
- Instructors have one week to implement accommodations.
- They are NOT retroactive (i.e. you do not have the right to get notes from lectures prior to the date of the signature on the form).
- Are you waiting too long to begin studying?
- Concentrate on essential facts.
- Recite instead of reread.
- Know flashcards forwards and backwards (it’s better to review flashcards for a few minutes each day than to sit down for an hour with a book).
- Break down lists of information into an odd number.
- Find out as much information as possible about the exam.
- Ask the instructor directly about what you can expect on the test.
- Use past tests (if available) to see the types of questions you might face.
- When should you begin studying for your next exam? YESTERDAY!
- Are you checking your email/class website for updates and information?
- When was the last time you checked your e-mail?
- E-mail is the official means of communication from the university and from your instructor.
- If you miss out on an important e-mail, IT IS YOUR FAULT.
- Are you in the wrong major?
- If you continue to struggle despite trying your hardest, you might be in the wrong major (or even the wrong institution).
- Take some career assessments at University Career Services and see if another major might work better for you.