<p>It’s my observation that you don’t have to be a genius (or even very smart) to get straight As or close to it. You just have to have some very good work habits:</p>
<p>1) Plan ahead: Do not try to get away with last minute night cramming. It will happen occasionally anyway, but if you plan, it won’t happen often.
2) Get organized: Its amazing how many kids get bad grades just because they didn’t turn something in on time, forget when the test would be, etc…
3) Find a ‘study partner’ in every class-preferably someone for whom the subject is an easy on-but even an ‘on level’ partner can help you through concepts that you find difficult. You’ll have someone to call and ask questions of. And teaching someone else is a great way to reinforce what you know.
4) GO SEE THE TEACHER-this is NOT sucking up (although it can be if you use it that way). If you get help the day you need it, you won’t get lost or behind. Too many people are afraid of looking dumb (which really IS dumb). And a side benefit is that a teacher gets to know you and knows that you care about the material. And yes, they will give you the benefit of the doubt if they can see that you are making the effort.</p>