A guide for middle and high school students in Palm Beach County
Improving your grades isn’t about being perfect—it’s about building better habits, staying consistent, and asking for help when you need it. Whether you’re aiming to raise your GPA, earn a scholarship, or just feel more confident in class, it’s never too late to take control of your education.
At Take Stock in Children Palm Beach County, we know our students are capable of achieving great things. If you’re ready to level up academically, this blog breaks down 7 smart, doable strategies to help you make it happen.
1. Get Organized and Stay That Way
One of the most common reasons students struggle is disorganization. Missed assignments, forgotten tests, and last-minute cramming can hurt your grades fast.
Here’s how to get organized:
- Use a planner or calendar to track due dates, tests, and projects.
- Create folders or binders for each class—keep notes, handouts, and assignments in order.
- Make a daily or weekly checklist so nothing slips through the cracks.
Action Tip: Spend 10 minutes every Sunday night reviewing your assignments and planning the week ahead.
2. Establish a Daily Homework Routine
Waiting until 10 PM to start homework doesn’t help anyone. Instead, create a routine that builds consistency.
Try this:
- Set a regular homework time each day (right after school, after dinner, etc.).
- Break big assignments into smaller tasks so they’re not overwhelming.
- Eliminate distractions—no TV, phone, or social media during study time.
Action Tip: Use the “Pomodoro Technique”—25 minutes of focused work, followed by a 5-minute break.
3. Ask for Help (Early and Often)
One of the smartest things a student can do? Ask questions. If you don’t understand something, don’t wait until test day.
Where to get help:
- Ask your teacher for clarification after class or during office hours.
- Join or start a study group with classmates.
- Use online resources like Khan Academy, Quizlet, or YouTube.
- Reach out to your TSIC College Readiness Coach or mentor—we’re here to support you!
Action Tip: Make a list of topics or concepts you’re struggling with and commit to asking about them this week.
4. Improve Your Note-Taking Skills
Taking good notes can help you understand and remember what you’re learning—and makes studying much easier.
Smart note-taking tips:
- Don’t write down everything—listen for key ideas, definitions, and examples.
- Use bullet points, headings, and underlining to stay organized.
- Review and revise your notes the same day you take them.
Action Tip: After class, spend 5 minutes rewriting your notes or summarizing them in your own words.
5. Study Smarter, Not Harder
Studying for hours doesn’t mean you’re learning more. Instead, use active study strategies that help your brain retain information.
Examples include:
- Teaching the material to someone else (or pretending to!)
- Making flashcards or using digital tools like Anki or Quizlet
- Practicing with old tests, quizzes, or sample problems
Action Tip: Pick one subject and try a new study method this week—then see what works best for you.
6. Focus on Your Health and Mindset
Your brain can’t perform at its best if your body and mindset aren’t being cared for.
What this looks like:
- Get at least 7–8 hours of sleep each night.
- Eat nutritious meals and stay hydrated—junk food leads to brain fog.
- Manage stress with activities like journaling, exercise, or meditation.
- Talk to someone if you’re feeling overwhelmed (your TSIC team is always here!).
Action Tip: Create a nighttime routine that helps you wind down and sleep well—limit screen time and aim for a consistent bedtime.
7. Set Clear Academic Goals
Having a goal gives your work purpose. Whether it’s getting all A’s, improving in math, or making honor roll, goals help you stay focused.
Use the SMART Goal formula:
- Specific – What exactly do you want to achieve?
- Measurable – How will you track progress?
- Achievable – Is it realistic?
- Relevant – Why does this goal matter to you?
- Time-bound – When will you achieve it?
Action Tip: Write down one short-term academic goal and one long-term goal. Share them with your mentor or coach to stay accountable.
Final Thoughts: Progress Over Perfection
Improving your grades won’t happen overnight—but it will happen if you take small, consistent steps. Stay organized, ask for help, and believe in yourself. Every quiz you prepare for, every assignment you turn in on time, and every goal you set brings you closer to success.
At Take Stock in Children Palm Beach County, we believe in your potential—and we’re with you every step of the way.
Need Support?
Reach out to your College Readiness Coach, stay connected with your mentor, and follow us on social media @takestockpalmbeach for more academic tips and student success stories.