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How to Choose the Right Coach for Your Teen

Updated on December 24, 2025 By Daniel Wong Leave a Comment

Every teen needs guidance to navigate the challenges of adolescence.

But as a parent, you’ve probably noticed that your teen frequently rejects your guidance.

The more you tell your teen what choices he or she ought to make, the less likely your teen is to listen.

So what should you do?

Connect your teen with an experienced coach. A skilled coach and mentor can transform unmotivated teens into motivated and responsible young adults.

These positive changes can ease the tension in your relationship with your teen. For many parents, this is the biggest benefit of finding the right coach.

How should you choose the right coach for your teen?

Every teen has unique challenges to overcome and opportunities to make the most of. So it’s important to look for a coach who has the right combination of skills and experience to meet your teen’s needs.

Here’s what to do first…

Identify the goals to be achieved through coaching

When a coach works with teenagers, the focus isn’t usually just on academics. If school performance is a concern you have about your teenager, a holistic approach is most effective.

A coach can work with your teen to develop the intrinsic motivation needed to do well in school. A coach will also help your teenager to develop the mindset and practical skills necessary to thrive.

This process involves many aspects of development for your teen. So it helps to start your search for a coach by listing the main concerns you have about your teenager.

Think about the outcomes you want to achieve through the coaching sessions. Ask yourself questions like:

Why am I looking for a coach for my teen?
What do I want my teen to learn through the coaching sessions?
Which areas does my teen need the most guidance in?

Below are some common areas for improvement that I help my teenage coaching clients to make progress in:

Common area for improvement #1: Motivation

A lack of intrinsic motivation is a common but serious problem that many teenagers struggle with.

A coach can help teens to find the inner drive to learn and improve. As a result, these teenagers will be able to reach their full potential in school and life.

Common area for improvement #2: Responsibility

Do you think your teen sometimes behaves irresponsibly?

If so, you’re not alone.

Teens need to learn to make wise decisions, but the desire to do so has to come from within. A coach can help teens shift towards more responsible and mature behavior.

Common area for improvement #3: Sense of purpose

Many teenagers coast through life without a strong sense of purpose.

A lack of direction can lead to frustration for both teens and their parents. It’s difficult for many teens to understand how to make meaningful choices and lead a meaningful life.

At a time when they’re making important decisions about the future, a sense of purpose can guide your teen in the right direction.

A coach can help your teen to cultivate passion and live a life that’s founded on the right values.

Common area for improvement #4: Attitude and mindset

We all know how important it is to develop mental strength. But many teens lack the fortitude to overcome challenges and setbacks.

Coaching can enable teens to become more process-oriented and resilient. Instead of focusing too much on grades or achievement, they’ll learn to find joy in the process of attaining mastery.

As such, they’ll develop a more positive attitude toward school and other areas of life.

Common area for improvement #5: Respect

Respect for authority figures – especially parents – can be dramatically improved through coaching.

You’re probably already aware that teenagers’ disrespectful behavior can damage relationships and cause frustration for everyone involved.

The right coach can help your teen to understand the importance of respect, such that your teen will change his or her behavior for the better.

Common area for improvement #6: Time management

Coaching will equip your teenager with the skills needed to manage his or her time effectively.

Your teen will learn how to reduce procrastination and overcome distractions. Your teen will also learn how to stay organized and prioritize well.

These time management skills will benefit your teenager both in the short term and the long term!

Common area for improvement #7: Study skills

As a parent, you know it can sometimes be hard to get a teen to study.

Some teens lack the motivation to study, while others need more practical support. Coaching addresses both of these issues.

If your teenager doesn’t know how to study effectively, ensure that the coach you engage is able to teach study skills.

Here’s what to look for in a coach…

The right coach is uniquely qualified to guide teens to become motivated, confident, and responsible. The right coach empowers teens to thrive and to maximize their potential.

So what factors should you consider when looking for a coach for your teen?

1. Experience and background

Look for a coach who specializes in working with teens. Choose a coach who has experience working with teens who face similar problems as your teen.

2. Expertise

Take a look at the articles and books the coach has written, the videos the coach has published, the interviews the coach has done, the talks the coach has given, etc. These should demonstrate the coach’s knowledge and expertise.

3. Professional development

You’re looking to engage someone who will inspire your teen to grow and develop. So the coach you choose should be an example of someone who embraces lifelong learning. Coaches who continually strive to improve themselves are in the best position to mentor your teenager.

4. Proven results

Read the testimonials and success stories of the coach’s previous clients to see if the coach has a proven track record.

Questions to ask a potential coach

If you’ve found a coach for your teen who seems suitable, here are some questions to ask:

Question #1: What coaching methodology do you use?

Find out how the coach plans to guide your teen toward making positive changes.

What approaches or techniques does the coach use? What is his or her coaching philosophy? What makes his or her approach effective?

Question #2: Do you offer a trial session?

A trial session is a great way to see how well your teen and the coach get along. The better the connection, the more likely it is that your teen will benefit from the coaching sessions.

Question #3: What’s your availability like?

Given your teen’s schedule and commitments, does the coach have available slots to work with your teen? Can the coach start the sessions right away, or is there a waiting list?

Question #4: What’s the structure of the coaching sessions?

Here are some related questions:

What’s the recommended frequency of the coaching sessions?
How long is each session?
Will you provide periodic updates to the parents?
Do I pay for the sessions one at a time, or do you offer some kind of package?
What’s your refund policy?

Conclusion

No matter what challenges your teenager is facing, I hope you’re now convinced that he or she would benefit from coaching.

And after reading this article, I hope you also know how to choose the right coach for your teenager.

Over the past decade, I’ve spent many thousands of hours coaching teenagers 1-on-1. It brings me incredible joy to see my teenage coaching clients become motivated, confident, resilient, purpose-driven, and responsible!

To find out more about the 1-on-1 coaching program I offer for teenagers, visit this page. Or you can also click the link in the box below…

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1-on-1 Coaching Program for Teens (With Daniel Wong)

Coaching for Teens: Can It Help My Teen to Become Motivated?

Updated on December 24, 2025 By Daniel Wong 1 Comment

Are you having a hard time getting your teenager to study, do chores, or participate in family activities?

Maybe you’ve noticed that your teenager seems unmotivated and directionless.

You’ve been watching your teenager avoid challenges, behave irresponsibly, and spend hours on his or her phone.

As a parent, you’ve been doing everything you can think of to get through to your teenager.

If this sounds like the situation in your home, it’s time to consider engaging a coach for your teenager.

Your teenager’s performance in all areas of life will greatly improve when he or she connects with an experienced coach.

This article explores the purpose of coaching, so you can decide if it’s the right solution for your teenager.

Signs that your teen needs a coach

Here are some indicators that your teen would benefit from working with a coach:

Sign #1: Your teen lacks motivation or has a negative attitude

A particular situation or event can cause teenagers to develop negative thoughts and a negative attitude.

For example, your teen may dislike a particular teacher, so he or she stops attending class.

Or maybe your teen feels overwhelmed by everything going on in school, so he or she procrastinates as a way of escape.

A coach can help your teen to become more self-aware and inspire your teen to change for the better.

Sign #2: Your teen lacks organizational skills

Here are some signs that your teen lacks organizational skills:

Your teen forgets to submit homework on time
Your teen misplaces his or her personal items
Your teen doesn’t plan ahead
Your teen doesn’t prepare well for tests and exams
Your teen doesn’t keep track of events and deadlines
Your teen doesn’t prioritize well

A coach can work with your teenager to equip him or her with the planning and organizational skills needed to cope with the demands of school, extra-curricular activities, etc.

This process will also prepare your teen for the future, where organizational skills will matter even more in the workplace and in managing adult life.

Sign #3: Your teen is addicted to texting, gaming, social media, videos, shows, etc.

Do you frequently find your teenager in front of the TV, computer, or on his or her phone?

It’s easy for teenagers can get caught up in the digital world, which is often entertaining and addictive.

A coach can work with your teenager to find the right balance. A coach can also enable your teenager to develop healthy habits when it comes to screen time.

Sign #4: Your teen gives up easily or struggles with anxiety

Teens who lack resilience often give up when they’re faced with challenges or with tasks that require significant effort.

If this describes your teen, a coach can work with him or her to get to the root of the issue. A coach can guide your teen toward developing perseverance and a strong work ethic.

Sometimes teens need to learn strategies to break down big projects into smaller tasks. They may also need to learn to view challenges positively instead of negatively. A skilled coach will be able to help your teen in these areas too.

What benefits will your teen receive through working with a coach?

An experienced coach is trained to help teenagers overcome their struggles so they can confidently face the future.

Here are some benefits your teen will receive through working with a coach:

Benefit #1: Your teen will develop a sense of purpose

Coaching will change your teen’s perception that school, extracurricular activities, family commitments, etc. are boring or pointless.

When teens have a strong sense of purpose, they naturally develop intrinsic motivation in all areas of their lives.

Benefit #2: Your teen will find a renewed passion for learning

At times, it may seem impossible for you to motivate your teen to study. But with support from a coach, your teen will take ownership of his or her education.

A coach will guide your teenager to develop traits like focus, confidence, and discipline. Your teen will start to take school seriously and will become an effective student.

Benefit #3: Your teen will become responsible and will make good decisions

Irresponsible choices can lead teens down the wrong path in life. Coaching will help your teenager develop responsibility and make wise decisions.

A coach will ensure that your teen has the right foundation for becoming a trustworthy and competent adult. When faced with tough choices, your teen will be equipped to choose the best path forward.

Benefit #4: Your teen will build healthy habits

Healthy habits are the building blocks of a successful and balanced life. But it isn’t always easy for parents to get their teens to develop new habits or eliminate harmful behaviors or thought patterns.

This is where coaching comes in.

A coach will teach your teenager how to develop the right habits and will ensure that the habits formed are permanent.

Benefit #5: Your teen will plan for the future

A coach will guide your teen to think long-term instead of short-term. Your teen will plan for the future effectively and set meaningful goals that he or she feels inspired to work toward.

At the same time, your teen will implement customized strategies to reach those goals.

Conclusion

At some point, most teenagers will lack motivation, focus, and direction.

I encourage you to get help for your teen as soon as possible, before the situation worsens.

After reading this article, I hope you’re now aware of how your teen would benefit from coaching.

To learn more about choosing a suitable coach for your teen, read this article next. Alternatively, you can click the link in the box below…

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How to Choose the Right Coach for Your Teen

20 Best Books for Students to Get Motivated and Inspired

Updated on March 11, 2026 By Daniel Wong 4 Comments

The right book read at the right time has the power to change your life.

The best books for students open your mind to new possibilities, help you get on the correct path, and spark curiosity about the world.

Are you ready to discover the books you ought to read for your personal development?

Maybe you feel like it’s time to start thinking about your financial future. Or maybe you’re looking for a novel that will engage your imagination.

Then look no further!

From classical literature to personal growth, this list of 20 must-read books for students will help you to thrive. What’s more, reading is a great habit for students to develop.

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20 must-read books for students

Check out these books for students who need a little inspiration or motivation:

Animal Farm by George Orwell
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
The Evolution of a Girl by L. E. Bowman
Indistractable by Nir Eyal
Elastic Habits by Stephen Guise
It’s Not About You by Tom Rath
Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens by Sean Covey
The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod
Just As You Are by Michelle Skeen and Kelly Skeen
The Success Principles by Jack Canfield
Shoot Your Shot by Vernon Brundage Jr.
Why Didn’t They Teach Me This in School? 99 Personal Money Management Principles to Live By by Cary Siegel
Do Hard Things by Alex Harris and Brett Harris
You Are Awesome by Matthew Syed
A Year of Positive Thinking for Teens by Katie Hurley
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff for Teens by Richard Carlson
In Order to Live: A North Korean Girl’s Journey to Freedom by Yeonmi Park

Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these books to find out why they’re the best ones for students to read.

1. Animal Farm by George Orwell

Written in 1945 by George Orwell, Animal Farm is a political satire that takes place on a farm. The animals, tired of being exploited by their human masters, overthrow them and set up an egalitarian society.

But the animals in charge let the power get to their heads – power always corrupts. They use propaganda to gain power and control the other animals.

This book explores the theme of the ability of everyday individuals to stand up for what they believe in and for those who can’t stand up for themselves.

2. The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry book cover

Beautifully written by French author Antoine de Saint- Exupéry, The Little Prince tells the story of a young boy living in a distant land with a unique flower – or so he thought.

Aware of the vanity of his flower, the little prince decides to leave his home. Arriving on Earth, he travels to a rose garden that has many flowers. This makes him realise that his flower isn’t unique.

Over time, the young boy meets a fox who teaches him to appreciate everything around him.

Initially struggling to look beneath the surface, as many adults do, the little prince masters the art of looking deeper to reveal the true beauty of life.

This book touches on the themes of love, friendship, courage, kindness, and loyalty – all of which you can learn to harness through your years as a student.

3. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne book cover

Set in World War 2, The Boy in the Striped Pajamas tells the story of nine-year-old Bruno, the son of a German commandant.

Bruno forges a friendship with a boy the same age as him named Shmuel. Bruno is unaware of the purpose of the place where his father works, Auschwitz, and therefore doesn’t understand what is going on or the danger his friend is in.

The book tackles complex and difficult topics and presents themes of innocence and the importance of friendship and family ties.

4. The Evolution of a Girl by L.E. Bowman

The Evolution of a Girl by L. E. Bowman and Marie Worden book cover

The Evolution of a Girl by L.E. Bowman is a collection that uses poetry and stories to mirror the transformation of a young girl into a woman – a go-to guide for teenage girls.

The book shares a series of life lessons for young women on self-acceptance, self-love, and growth during these transitional years.

These lessons help girls develop a strength they can carry throughout their lives.

Bowman takes on themes of heartbreak and anger that lead to transformation and rebirth.

5. Indistractable by Nir Eyal

In Indistractable, Nir Eyal details the things that cause us to get distracted. The author explains why turning off all our devices (phones, computers, etc.) isn’t always the right way to overcome distractions.

If you want to succeed and make the most of your life, you need to avoid things that cause you to deviate from the path you need to be on.

You have to live your life not only doing the right things, but also not doing things you’ll regret later.

This is an excellent book for students, so I encourage you to read it right away!

6. Elastic Habits by Stephen Guise

Elastic Habits by Stephen Guise book cover

Create lasting habits with this powerful book by Stephen Guise.

Elastic Habits shows you how to develop excellent habits by making minor changes each day.

Never miss a day! These mini-milestones can lead you towards establishing positive habits that will stay with you throughout your life.

What makes the concepts in this book helpful is that you’ll have flexibility in developing habits. You get to select the activity you want to work on, when you want to work on it, and how intense the effort will be.

You’ll find strategies to improve your study habits and make it more fun to pursue your goals!

7. It’s Not About You by Tom Rath

It's Not About You by Tom Rath book cover

“Life is not about you. It’s about what you do for others.”

As a sixteen-year-old with a rare genetic disorder, Rath sought a meaningful life in the nurturing care of his family, including his grandfather, Don Clifton.

Rath teaches us how to answer life’s great questions in this empowering self-help memoir.

This book’s message teaches us that life’s greater purpose is to focus less on what we want to achieve and more on what we can do to contribute.

8. Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven

Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven book cover

Make Your Bed contains ten life lessons that Admiral William H. McRaven learned during his Navy SEAL training.

These lessons helped him overcome challenges during his long Navy career and throughout his life.

As he writes in the book:

“Making your bed will also reinforce the fact that little things in life matter. If you can’t do the little things right, you will never do the big things right.”

Starting the day by making your bed increases your motivation to move through your other daily tasks. As a result, your days will become more productive and fruitful.

9. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck book cover

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck explores the idea that we have two mindsets: fixed and growth.

The fixed mindset is a belief that your abilities are set in stone and that staying in your comfort zone is the best way to feel validated.

But developing a growth mindset is vital if you want to succeed in life and make the most of the opportunities you’re presented with.

The growth mindset is the belief that your fundamental qualities and abilities are things you can build upon and improve.

This book explains how your conscious and unconscious thoughts can affect you. It also explains how simple changes in the words you use can have a profound effect on your behaviour.

10. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens by Sean Covey

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens by Sean Covey book cover

Teens today face new challenges like cyberbullying and constant online distractions.

Covey offers a simple, step-by-step approach to help teens boost their self-image, build healthy friendships, counter peer pressure, and reach their goals.

The main focus is on ensuring that you’re proactive because this paves the way for students to master the other habits.

The first three habits focus on self-improvement, while the next four habits cover topics to do with how we relate to others.

Students who want to improve their lives in significant ways should read this book!

11. The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod

The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod and Robert Kiyosaki book cover

This book aims to encourage you to adopt a powerful and energising morning routine.

A solid morning routine will catapult you towards success!

Elrod explains the six steps you can take every morning to get you on the right track:

Silence
Affirmations
Visualisation
Exercise
Reading
Scribing

12. Just As You Are by Michelle Skeen and Kelly Skeen

Just As You Are by Kelly Skeen and Michelle Skeen book cover

“Stop comparing yourself to others – you’re special just as you are!”

Offering many practical solutions, Just As You Are is a teen’s guide to self-acceptance and developing lasting self-esteem.

The series of insights from psychologist Michelle Skeen and her daughter, Kelly Skeen, consist of simple tips.

These tips will enable you to eliminate feelings of inadequacy, to stop comparing yourself with others, and to accept yourself fully.

13. The Success Principles by Jack Canfield

The Success Principles by Jack Canfield book cover

“Don’t worry about your failures, worry about the chances you miss when you don’t even try…”

Jack Canfield gets to the heart of achieving enduring success in this book.

He writes about the numerous principles that helped him throughout his life. He shares them so that anyone can learn how to lead a meaningful and fulfilling life.

As you read this book, you’ll understand how believing you can achieve your goals, working to achieve your goals, and taking full responsibility for your life will get you headed in the right direction.

14. Shoot Your Shot by Vernon Brundage Jr.

Shoot Your Shot by Vernon Brundage Jr. book cover

Many teenagers and students aspire to be just like their favourite athletes.

That’s precisely what this book is about.

Reading this book provides you with a chance to understand the tips and tricks of successful athletes that can also be integrated into your day-to-day life. As a result, you’ll be one step closer to achieving your goals.

Shoot Your Shot introduces the fundamental principles that elite basketball players follow, which will guide you as you strive to make the most of your potential.

15. Why Didn’t They Teach Me This in School?: 99 Personal Money Management Principles to Live By by Cary Siegel

Why Didn’t They Teach Me This in School?: 99 Personal Money Management Principles to Live By by Carl Siegel book cover

Why Didn’t They Teach Me This in School? is a fantastic book for students who want to improve their money management skills.

In this book, you’ll discover eight lessons broken down into 99 clear and concise principles to help you manage your personal finances well.

What makes it one of the best books for students is that it isn’t a dry or boring read about money.

Instead, it contains interesting and practical examples to make the material relatable and memorable.

16. Do Hard Things by Alex Harris and Brett Harris

Do Hard Things by Alex Harris and Brett Harris book cover

Rather than portraying adolescence as a time of escape from responsibility, Do Hard Things redefines the teenage years as a catapult for a meaningful life.

Through personal anecdotes and practical examples, the authors challenge you to get outside your comfort zone and do challenging things.

As a student, you’ll gain inspiration and clarity about the future through this fascinating book.

In fact, Alex Harris and Brett Harris were teens when they wrote the book.

Read the book and get ready to feel motivated to take on challenges and lead an extraordinary life!

17. You Are Awesome by Matthew Syed

You Are Awesome by Matthew Syed and Toby Triumph book cover

This book invites teenagers to defy self-doubt, fearlessly explore and discover, and develop confidence in themselves.

You Are Awesome is an invitation to embrace change and stop doubting yourself.

Students will benefit from this book’s practicality and positivity. As you read the book, you’ll become more self-aware.

You’ll also become better prepared for whatever life throws at you.

18. A Year of Positive Thinking for Teens by Katie Hurley

A Year of Positive Thinking for Teens by Katie Hurley book cover

This book‘s philosophy centres around the idea that harnessing positive thinking can increase your happiness and motivation to beat stress.

It will also help you to focus on achieving your goals.

A Year of Positive Thinking for Teens introduces principles and strategies to help students take action, overcome teenage anxiety, and build resilience.

This book is especially useful for teensagers who struggle with distorted or negative thinking that’s holding them back.

19. Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff for Teens: Simple Ways to Keep Your Cool in Stressful Times by Richard Carlson

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff for Teens: Simple Ways to Keep Your Cool in Stressful Times by Richard Carlson book cover

Being a teen can be tough. Richard Carlson understands this, and explains in Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff for Teens how teenagers can learn to thrive.

The book covers various topics, including peer pressure, homework, dating, etc., through a series of inspirational essays.

Carlson offers different methods and advice to handle the challenges that teens face.

For example, he recommends that teens always look for the positive in a given situation, and remember that they can make a difference in the world.

This is a must-read book for students!

20. In Order to Live: A North Korean Girl’s Journey to Freedom by Yeonmi Park

In Order to Live: A North Korean Girl’s Journey to Freedom by Yeonmi Park book cover

Yeonmi Park shares her fascinating story in In Order to Live: A North Korean Girl’s Journey to Freedom.

She writes honestly about the fear of living under a dictatorship, the threat of dying from disease and starvation, and even execution.

She fled North Korea at the age of 13 and she hoped to reunite with her sister. She made it to China, only to be forced into human trafficking.

When she finally found freedom in South Korea, she encountered further challenges that she eventually overcame.

This is an exhilarating and heartrending book that will change the way you look at the world.

Conclusion

Don’t underestimate the power of books during your student years.

Why not save this list of the 20 best books for students and make your way through them in your leisure time?

It’s an investment of time that will definitely pay off!

(And if you’d like a free quick action guide to enable you to overcome procrastination once and for all, make sure to download the PDF below.)

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11 Excuses for Not Doing Homework (And How to Stop Making Them)

Updated on January 6, 2026 By Daniel Wong 6 Comments

When you get home from school, do you find yourself making excuses for not doing your homework?

If you’re like many students, you’d rather take a nap, talk to your friends online, or play video games.

As you already know, finding reasons not to do your homework will prevent you from succeeding in school.

I’m sure you want to do well in school, and homework is definitely a part of that process.

In this article, I’ll go over 11 of the most common excuses for not doing homework and offer solutions to ensure that you stay engaged in school.

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Excuse #1: You lack the required knowledge

Let your parents and teacher know if you’re taking a class and feel as if you lack the necessary skills or knowledge to complete the homework.

Ask your teacher for extra guidance so you don’t fall too far behind. See if your parents can find the time to help you, or you can look for a tutor.

Your teachers are there to help you develop the skills you need to do well in their classes.

You’re not alone in feeling that you lack the necessary skills, so don’t be too embarrassed to ask for assistance. You might even find some great study buddies who feel the same way.

Excuse #2: You lack confidence

Many students compare themselves to their peers, which can lead to a lack of confidence. When that happens, it’s easy to make excuses for not doing the homework.

But here’s what you need to know…

Everyone lacks confidence about something.

You might be good at math but need extra help with English. Perhaps you excel at geography but find biology confusing.

Give yourself a break.

If you lack confidence in your ability to learn a particular subject, get the support you need. Your teachers, parents, and even friends will help you out and give you a needed morale boost.

Excuse #3: Your home life is too hectic

The excuses for submitting assignments late are numerous, but one that I hear often is that it’s too busy or noisy at home to focus.

Finding a quiet space and using earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones can help reduce distractions. This will make it easier for you to finish your homework.

If that doesn’t work, try finding an alternative location to do your work, like the library or a friend’s house.

You can also talk to your parents about it. They might not even be aware of all the interruptions that are preventing you from completing your schoolwork.

Excuse #4: You don’t know where to start

Feeling anxious and overwhelmed are often the main reasons that cause students to not know where to start on their homework.

If you ever feel this way, here’s what I suggest you do:

Take a deep breath.
Create a space where you can get organised.
Make a list of all your assignments and deadlines.
Work on one assignment at a time.
Start with an easy assignment to get a quick win, or tackle the most challenging assignment to get it out of the way.

Excuse #5: You have poor study habits

Many students develop bad study habits over their years in school.

Not everyone learns the same way or at the same pace. As such, every student will have different study habits. If what you’re doing isn’t working, try a different approach.

If you’re trying to do your homework as soon as you get home from school but can’t focus, try having a snack and taking a power nap before getting to work instead.

If you’re staying up too late studying, set a rule for yourself that you’ll start doing your homework within one hour of getting home.

Establish a routine where you do your work at roughly the same time each day. Developing routines like this will improve your study habits, which will make you a more effective student.

Excuse #6: School isn’t important to you

A common misconception is that school isn’t important, that what you learn won’t be relevant once you leave school.

This isn’t completely true.

Of course, the education system can be improved. But the knowledge you acquire in school will help you to understand and appreciate the world better.

And the process of becoming a more effective student will lead you to develop traits like self-discipline and responsibility. These are the types of traits you’ll need in order to find success at any stage of life!

Excuse #7: You’re overloaded with after-school activities

I know it can be tough to balance schoolwork and extracurricular activities.

Maybe you’re on a sports team or you spend several hours each week volunteering.

Finding the right balance to ensure you have enough time for homework can be challenging.

When too many afterschool activities get in the way of completing your assignments on time, it’s time to review your schedule. Decide how you can prioritise the activities that are the most important.

You may need to put some activities on hold until you’re consistently staying on top of your schoolwork.

Speak with your coach, teachers, or parents about the ideas they have to help you manage your schedule more effectively.

Excuse #8: Studying is boring for you

If you find that doing your homework is uninteresting, it may be time for you to change your point of view.

I always encourage students to cultivate a growth mindset. This is a mindset where you focus more on the learning process instead of on getting good grades.

Rather than seeing a particular subject as boring, develop a sense of wonder. Decide that you’re going to be intellectually curious, and you’ll discover that we live in a fascinating world.

And while you’re on that journey, remember that the students who succeed in school find ways to get the work done even when they find the subject boring.

For example, if you don’t like math, consider that it isn’t just about numbers – it’s a way of thinking.

Reframing how you think about a subject will enable you to see it as more interesting. In turn, you’ll become a better student over time.

Excuse #9: Your teachers assign too much homework

Sometimes, it may seem like your teachers assign more homework than you can keep up with. You might even believe that what you’re required to do is unreasonable.

If you find yourself in this situation, take a moment to think about everything else you’re doing.

Are you managing your time well?

Are you struggling with a particular class?

Do you use memory techniques to enable you to learn faster?

Instead of allowing homework to overwhelm you, try talking to your teacher, tutor, or parents to figure out the best way forward for you.

Excuse #10: You already have so much overdue homework

Procrastinating on your homework can lead to a significant pile-up of assignments. This will affect your confidence in being able to complete them.

What’s more, once you get a set of new assignments, you probably won’t know how to do them because you didn’t do the previous assignments.

This creates a vicious cycle where you tell yourself that there’s no point in completing your newly assigned homework because you still have the old ones to do.

When this happens, the likelihood of completing any of the work decreases.

If you’re in this situation, set a reasonable goal of keeping up with all the newly assigned homework while completing, say, one overdue assignment a day, or one overdue assignment every two days.

Excuse #11: You don’t believe you can get good grades

If you hate school, there’s a chance that it’s because you feel the pressure to be a straight-A student.

Here’s the good news: You don’t need to be perfect. After all, there’s no such thing as a perfect student.

But you do have to put in the effort and get the work done. The rest will then fall into place.

If you’re doing your best, you’re doing great! Celebrate your progress and keep moving forward.

Take it one step at a time, and don’t worry too much about what grades you’re getting at the moment.

In closing…

There are many possible reasons for you not to finish your homework.

No matter what those reasons are, it’s important to know that the people around you want to help you succeed.

From teachers to parents to coaches, you have a support network to provide solutions to almost any obstacle you face.

Identify the excuses listed in this article that are relevant to your situation, and apply the suggested solutions.

If you do that, you’ll become a better and happier student who makes far fewer excuses related to homework!

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When Is the Best Time to Study? Here’s What You Need to Know

Updated on January 6, 2026 By Daniel Wong 4 Comments

Do you ever wonder when is the best time to study?

I’ve spoken to and worked with over 20,000 students, so I’ve often heard some variation of this question:

“Will studying at a specific time help me get better grades?”

Here’s the truth…

How you study is more important than when you study.

Every student is unique. The best time to study depends on your circadian rhythm, schedule, extracurricular activities, and learning preferences.

What matters most is that once you determine your optimal time to study, you stick with that schedule.

Don’t wait until you’re feeling motivated to crack open your textbook. Instead, include study time in your daily and weekly routine.

For example, if you discover that you study best from 4 pm to 6 pm, set a recurring daily alarm at 3:50 pm to remind you of your upcoming work session.

If you do this, you’ll find it easier to stay on track with your study habits — and get better grades in the process, too.

Now, how do you determine the best time of day to study? That’s what the rest of this article is about.

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Top benefits of studying in the morning

Most students I’ve worked with find it hard to study before school.

You want to arrive at your classes refreshed and ready to learn — not mentally exhausted from an early morning study session.

That being said, some students function best in the early hours of the day. So you can consider these benefits of getting your work done in the morning:

1. Your mind is fresh

Do you feel most alert and motivated at the start of your day?

Are you refreshed and raring to go after a good night’s sleep?

If so, you might find that the best time to study is in the morning, before daily decisions, chores, and to-do lists cloud your mind.

2. You won’t disrupt your sleep schedule

It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re studying in the evening. Before you know it, the clock reads 11:30 pm — and your alarm is set for 6:00 am the next day!

If you want to do better in school, it’s crucial that you get enough sleep.

Now, you don’t have to follow a morning study routine to become a top student. But you might find it easier to stick to a sleep schedule if you’re not tackling assignments late into the night.

3. Brain-boosting natural light

Studies show that natural light affects our hormones and circadian rhythm while enhancing brain activity. Natural light can improve learning, cognition, mood, and even sleep.

I realise that my own sleep quality is much better when I get natural light in the morning!

If you have a study area where you can get natural light in the morning, you’ll be able to focus and retain new information more effectively.

4. A positive start to your day

When you start the day productively, you’ll often carry that positive energy with you throughout the rest of the day.

Plus, you’ll likely feel more in control and less stressed when you know you’ve completed a challenging task to start the day – before most of your classmates have even rolled out of bed!

Top benefits of studying in the afternoon

Let’s continue exploring the question of when the best time to study is by looking at the benefits of having afternoon study sessions:

1. Easy access to peers and teachers

One study tip that works for most students is to form a homework group.

Everyone has questions from time to time. When you study with a small group of motivated peers, you’ll have someone you can turn to for help.

If you always study alone, you might get discouraged when you’re faced with a hard assignment.

And if it’s early in the morning or late at night, your teachers and peers might not be available to support you.

2. Public spaces and libraries are open

Many of the students I’ve worked with tell me that it isn’t effective to study at home.

Distractions like video games, siblings, and the TV can make it tricky to focus on the task at hand.

If you focus best in a quiet space where there are other students (like a library or study room), the afternoon might be the best time to study for you.

3. Opportunity to integrate new information

I’ve said it before many times in my previous articles, but it bears repeating: cramming doesn’t work.

What approach works better instead?

Studying smarter by periodically reviewing the new material — starting on the day that you learn the new information.

If you choose to study in the afternoon, you’ll have the advantage of reviewing your notes while the information is fresh in your mind. This is because you would have just covered the material in class earlier that same day.

4. Fewer restrictions on your study time

If you get your work done in the afternoon, you’ll have more control over your schedule.

Your study sessions won’t get cut short because you need to go to school or because of late-night fatigue.

Top benefits of studying in the evening

Are you a night owl?

Maybe you realise that you have more energy in the evening and at night, and you can concentrate better during those hours.

Here are a few benefits of doing your schoolwork in the evening:

1. Fewer distractions and noise

Many students excel during the quiet and peaceful nighttime hours because there are fewer distractions.

But be sure to go to bed at a reasonable hour so that you still get sufficient sleep!

2. More conducive to a busy student’s schedule

I’m sure you’re a busy student. Between school, hobbies, chores, and exercise, sometimes the only opportunity to study is in the evening.

That’s fine, so long as you keep track of your homework assignments and prioritise them accordingly.

3. Retention of new information could improve

Some research suggests that students are better able to retain new information when they learn it before going to sleep.

Why?

Because when you’re sleeping, your brain is consolidating the new information so that you can retrieve it later on.

I encourage you to try it out and see if it works for you!

In closing…

Deciding on (and sticking with) a study schedule is a great way to improve your academic performance.

But it’s only one step.

If you want to become a focused and effective student, you need a plan.

That’s why I’ve created The Perfect Study Plan. It’s a proven, step-by-step formula to help you become a straight-A student. Learn more about this exam preparation and study skills course here.

(If you haven’t already done so, make sure to download your free quick action guide below.)

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How to Get Your Children to Set Academic Goals They WANT to Pursue

Updated on January 6, 2026 By Daniel Wong Leave a Comment

Are your children excited about their academic goals?

Do they even know what those academic goals are?

Don’t worry, most parents answer with a resounding “No”.

Motivating your children to do well in school is tricky, and distractions like smartphones and social media don’t make it any easier.

And yet, it is possible to get your children to pursue academic success — no exhausting micromanaging required.

Here’s the thing…

Goals matter, but not all goals are created equal.

It all boils down to setting the right educational goals.

Let’s take a closer look at what it means to set smart academic goals. I’ll also walk you through a proven system to help students set achievable goals and build life-long success habits.

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What is an academic goal?

The trouble with not having a goal is that you can spend your life running up and down the field and never score. – Bill Copeland

Academic goals are educational objectives your children set for themselves.

Notice that I said “your children set” — not you, the parent.

I know that’s easier said than done.

I’m a parent, too. As parents, we only want the best for our children.

Even so, our kids want to feel in control of their lives. They need to know their opinions matter.

You can help your children set smart academic goals without dictating the details of those objectives. In turn, they will be more motivated to follow through on their commitments.

They’ll build significant traits like focus, determination, and confidence, too.

When setting academic goals, it’s good to consider both short-term and long-term targets.

Short-term academic goals

When I refer to short-term academic goals, I mean educational objectives that typically take a year or less to achieve.

Short-term goals create powerful opportunities for confidence-building wins. They also provide direction — your children will know which side of the field to run towards to score that game-changing goal.

Plus, short-term academic goals lead to improvements in study habits, character, and resilience.

It’s this process of setting goals (not necessarily achieving the outcome) that sets your children up for ongoing success.

Here are some examples of short-term academic goals:

Get an A on my next math exam
Connect with a mentor who will give me guidance
Finish my research project by [specific date]
Join chess club
Participate in classroom discussions at least X times a week

Long-term academic goals

Long-term academic goals are a student’s North Star.

Motivation is fleeting, and focus may not always come easily.

Sometimes, your children might think:

“It’s only one grade — so what if it’s not an A?”

Relying on inspiration doesn’t work, but long-term academic goals do when they’re compelling.

The key is to help your children identify the why behind their big goals. There must be a meaningful emotional attachment to the dream.

Some students find it exciting to plan for their future. Others get overwhelmed by the sheer enormity of it, and that’s okay, too.

Remind your children that long-term academic goals might change as they develop new interests. What’s essential is creating a long-term educational plan that brings meaning and purpose to their academic studies.

Examples of academic goals

Since long-term academic goals are crucial, let’s take a closer look at some common examples.

Achieve a high GPA

Getting a high GPA (grade point average) is not the main thing to focus on.

A grade is just a letter on a page. There’s no doubt that it’s possible to lead a fulfilling and successful life without straight A’s.

Still, a high GPA is a sign of a hardworking, disciplined student — traits that many scholarship committees, universities, and job boards value. Achieving a high GPA might be a long-term academic goal that makes sense for children and teens.

Get accepted into their dream university

Have your children or teens already selected their dream universities?

Maybe it’s a local university with an esteemed journalism program. Or perhaps your children want to study where you earned your degree.

Acceptance into a dream school can be a motivating and exciting long-term academic goal for students.

Earn a bachelor’s degree

Earning a bachelor’s degree is a necessary first step for many career paths. Even if the subject doesn’t provide a direct job path (like English or Philosophy), pursuing a bachelor’s degree is an opportunity for your children to dive deep into their interests while paving the way for ongoing education.

In addition, university classes build communication, social, and problem-solving skills — all great reasons for your children to want to get a bachelor’s degree.

Earn a master’s degree

Some career paths require a master’s degree. If your children dream of being mental health counsellors or urban planners, they’re going to need to spend additional time in university.

Another reason to consider a master’s degree is for the financial benefits. The data shows that some jobs pay individuals with a master’s degree up to 18% more than those with bachelor’s degrees.

Whether your children and teenagers’ goals are career advancement or financial security, earning a master’s degree might be a relevant long-term goal.

How setting academic goals helps students

We’ve explored different types of academic targets and made a sample list of goals for students. Now, let’s look at how you can help your children and teens to set and attain their academic goals.

Academic goals are a training plan for success

Let’s imagine that your boss tells you that you have to run a marathon.

(Let’s not get into why your boss would want you to do this.)

If you’re not a runner, running 42 kilometres probably sounds exhausting. Impossible, even.

You have no idea where to start, so you don’t. You tell your boss you can’t run the marathon, and that’s the end of it.

Now, picture this instead…

No one is forcing you to run a marathon. You’ve decided it’s a long-term goal that motivates you to become a healthier person. Plus, you’ve always wanted to get outdoors more.

So you find a coach. She gives you a 16-week training plan, and you start with some short runs. The weeks go by and suddenly, you’re on your way to running the full marathon. You have milestones to keep you on track as you race towards a finish line you’re excited to cross.

Long-term academic goals are like a marathon; short-term objectives are the training workouts to help them stay the course.

I’ve said this before, but it’s worth repeating.

It’s the process — not achieving the outcome — that makes the difference.

Finishing a marathon is fantastic, but what’s even more important than that?

Who you had to become to complete those early morning runs and exhausting training sessions. The mental fortitude and physical strength you gained through the practice of showing up, day after day.

Life is a continuous journey of learning, improving, and developing.

Educational goals enable your teens to develop valuable life skills, regardless of the outcome.

Academic goals measure progress

There’s a well-known business saying that “if you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it”.

This goes for academics, too. Short-term educational goals give your children clear benchmarks to track their progress and make any necessary changes along the way.

Academic goals build a sense of purpose

Students need to know that they have control over their lives and that their decisions make a difference.

Having academic goals does precisely that. Suddenly, schoolwork has meaning. Homework no longer seems pointless, and getting good grades becomes exciting.

What’s more, a sense of purpose builds self-confidence, motivation, and autonomy — all excellent traits of responsible teenagers.

How to set and meet academic goals

At this point in the article, you’re no longer wondering what academic goals are. Even better, your children now have (or will soon have) lists of short- and long-term objectives they’re excited to pursue.

But there’s one problem: Not all goals lead to results.

It’s not because your children aren’t working hard enough or don’t care about their studies.

The secret to setting the right academic goals is to focus on achieving progress — not perfection.

Your children are going to face challenges and encounter setbacks on their journey.

Maybe your children or teenagers studied for weeks yet still didn’t ace their big exam.

Or maybe they fell behind in calculus while working on their college applications.

Such disappointments are normal. At the same time, obstacles present powerful opportunities for personal development and growth.

What matters most is making progress towards academic goals.

We can’t control the outcome, but we can manage the processes that move us closer to the desired result. And we do that by helping students set process-based goals.

Here are a few examples of process-based goals:

I will work with my math tutor twice a week.
I will get at least 7–8 hours of sleep every night.
I will sit in the front row of the class to ensure that I stay focused.
I will put my phone on aeroplane mode while studying so that I don’t get distracted.
I will drink at least eight glasses of water daily.

Get specific with your process-based goals.

“I will study for 2 hours every weeknight” is much easier to track than “I will study more”.

Then, every week or two, monitor your progress. Encourage your children to review their process-based goals and assess how they’ve been doing.

Are they getting closer to achieving their short- and long-term academic goals? If not, that’s okay!

Help your children to make any necessary tweaks or adjustments to their process-based goals.

This way, your children will continually be working towards their academic goals without being fixated on a specific outcome.

They’ll begin to enjoy the process of improving and developing — and be much more likely to get the results they want, too.

The difference between academic and career goals

As we begin to wrap up this article, you might be wondering, “What’s the difference between academic and career goals?”

I like to say that academic goals are the stepping-stones to future career objectives.

If your children want to become doctors, they will first have to get specific grades and diplomas.

Job success isn’t as straightforward as getting straight A’s. Employees are “graded” on performance, creativity, teamwork, and leadership — all valuable skills your children will learn through the process of pursuing their goals.

Don’t worry if your children have no idea what career they would like to pursue. Career goals often evolve, and students tend to change their minds over time.

The bottom line is that it’s terrific if your children have career goals, but don’t focus on them too much.

Instead, focus on both short- and long-term academic goals that bring purpose to your children and teens’ studies, and enable them to build vital skills.

Want even more tips?

When you help your children to commit to smart academic goals, you set them up for long-term success.

It’s great if your children achieve their goals. Even better, though, is the process of becoming hardworking and disciplined students with compelling visions of the future.

Setting academic goals is only one way to motivate your children and teens. Want even more tips?

Do you want to learn how to help your children and teens…

Find a renewed passion for learning?
Take responsibility for their education and life?
Build character and resilience?
Do what they ought to — without you nagging?

If so, download my e-book, 16 Keys to Motivating Your Teenager.

The guide is completely free, and I’ve received countless emails from happy parents who have benefitted from the e-book.

So click the link in the box below and get your copy today!

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How to Get Good Grades: 10 Useful Strategies for Students

Updated on January 6, 2026 By Daniel Wong 21 Comments

Are you struggling with how to get good grades?

Don’t worry — you’re not alone.

I’ve spoken to thousands of students around the world, and many are quick to say:

“I study hard but I still get bad grades.”

Here’s the thing…

Those successful students that you know? They aren’t necessarily any more intelligent than the rest of the class.

They’ve simply developed study strategies that help them perform better in school.

You can get good grades, too. Your academic goals can be achieved by studying more effectively, not by studying “harder”.

In this article, I’ll cover the winning habits I used to be a straight-A student throughout my academic career — no all-nighters required.

Ready to stop stressing about grades and start doing better in school? Then let’s explore the useful strategies that will help you do just that.

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Why is it important to get good grades?

The first step to doing better in school isn’t cracking open a textbook — it’s understanding why good grades matter.

Now, let me say this…

Your grades do not define your intelligence or self-worth.

Your academic record is only one part of your education, and you can lead a successful life with or without straight A’s.

That being said, there are real benefits to getting good grades.

For example, a solid academic record provides more opportunities for scholarships, higher education, and employment. Academic excellence may be the bridge to your dream career.

More significant, though, are the life-changing skills you’ll gain as you work toward becoming a top student — traits like focus, determination, discipline, and confidence. These values are crucial to achieving any of your goals, inside or outside the classroom.

A good grade is more than just a letter on a page. Achieving academic success after learning how to focus when studying is a rewarding experience that offers long-lasting benefits.

10 ways to do better in school

Now that you know the value of good grades, let’s dive into the habits that will help you get them.

1. Know why good grades matter to you

We already covered why academic success is generally important.

But if you really want to know how to get good grades, it’s essential to understand why academic success matters to you.

What difference will good grades make in your life, now and in the future?

Do you have dreams of attending a specific university or following a particular career path?

Maybe you want to develop your grit and persistence — to have the confidence that comes with knowing you gave school your best effort. Or perhaps you want financial security and the ability to provide for your family in the future.

There’s no right or wrong here. Just ensure that your motivation for pursuing academic excellence is a compelling one.

Even with the best study habits, it isn’t easy to consistently put in the work required to get good grades.

Sometimes, you’ll want to quit. When you’re feeling frustrated or overwhelmed, come back to your why. It will put all those study sessions in perspective — and make the journey to becoming a successful and resilient student a more rewarding one, too.

2. Write down all important deadlines and dates

Upcoming exams. Project assignments. Events and extra-curricular activities.

You’re a busy student with a lot of dates to remember.

It’s normal to think that you can keep track of all your deadlines in your head. The only problem is, relying on memory (and memory alone) doesn’t work for anyone.

Instead, it leads to forgotten assignments, last-minute panic, and low-quality work.

There’s a simple way never to forget another assignment again. Write down every due date. Use Google Calendar or Google Keep. You can even jot it down in an old-fashioned notebook.

Choose the medium that works for you.

The less you stress about deadlines, the more energy you’ll have for completing your assignments. You’ll become a more effective student and you’ll free up valuable mental capacity for the things that matter.

3. Don’t forget to schedule your downtime

In your calendar, take a moment and block out time for relaxation.

That’s right. Not only am I permitting you to schedule downtime, I’m encouraging you to do so.

Relaxation is necessary for mental and physical well-being. You’re not a robot — no one expects you to study like one.

Pursue the activities you love. Allow your mind to be at play. Your overall health and happiness will improve, and you’ll become a better student in the process.

That’s because exercise improves concentration and creativity. Relaxation promotes memory and retention.

Free time to pursue the activities you love outside of academics develops a school-life balance — a lifelong pursuit that brings more meaning to your goals and joy to your life.

Even small blocks of relaxation are helpful. Most students can only maintain deep focus for 30 to 45 minutes at a go. Scheduling short intervals of downtime after longer chunks of work is a strategic and fun way to approach assignments.

And try not to use your phone or computer during your quick study breaks. As studies have shown, your brain won’t fully relax, and the distraction often makes it more challenging to go back to the task at hand.

4. Find a seat at the front

Can you choose where you sit in class? Then grab a seat at the front of the room.

Studies show that students who sit in the first few rows tend to get significantly higher exam scores than their peers.

Why does sitting at the front of the class make such a big difference in test scores?

One reason is focus. If you’re at the back of the room, it’s easy to become distracted by your classmates. If you sit at the front, your attention will be on the teacher — not what is happening around you.

Then there’s the issue of accountability. If you’re tucked away in a corner, it’s easy to get away with passing notes, dozing off, or doodling.

Set yourself up for success by controlling as much of your environment as possible, and you’ll stop fretting about how to get good grades.

5. Take more effective notes

Now that you’re sitting at the front of the class, you’re ready to take notes as you actively listen to your teacher.

You’ve got your notebook open and your pen in hand. What more do you need to know?

For one, there’s how to take notes effectively.

There’s a structure to note-taking that works. Otherwise, you risk jotting down ideas that make little sense later on.

Here are some tips for note-taking success:

Handwrite your notes

Handwriting your notes helps you to process and frame the information in a way that works for you.

You’ll think more deeply about what you’re writing and, as a result, remember more from the lesson during your study sessions later.

Organise your notes

Whichever note-taking method you use, keep your notes neat and organised.

Group together similar ideas. Copy your notes after class if your handwriting is messy and hard to read. Clear, easy-to-navigate notes are crucial for anyone struggling with how to get good grades.

6. Understand the topic (don’t just memorise the information)

Many students think that studying is all about memorisation.

So they make heaps of notecards for dates, facts and names, then hope they can retain enough information for the exam day.

The problem with memorising information is that it only works for the short term.

Have you ever taken an exam, only to forget most of the material a few weeks later? That’s because memorisation is not an effective way to categorise and recall information — skills that become increasingly important as you progress in your studies.

You’ll learn more and become more successful in school when you actually understand the topic at hand.

Note-taking is an excellent first step towards processing information. From your notes, summarise the material. Find connections with other topics, and draw your own conclusions.

When you realise that getting good grades is less about memorising the material and more about understanding the topic, you’ll find it much easier to perform well academically.

7. Create a consistent study routine

The students who do the best know they can’t wait for inspiration to study.

Instead, they consistently show up and do the work, even when they don’t feel like it.

You’ll become a more efficient student when you make your study routine a habit. Soon, you won’t have the mental debate over whether or not you should study. You’ll just do it.

And that’s when the magic happens — better grades and more time for the other activities you enjoy.

The first step to creating a study routine is to set up a schedule. Plan out your week in advance with set blocks of time for your studies. Faithfully stick to your plan.

It typically takes a few weeks to form a new habit, so don’t be discouraged if you find it difficult at the start to follow your routine. With time and dedication, your study schedule will become second nature.

8. Use smart test-taking strategies

There’s no sugar-coating it: If you’re asking how to get better grades, you’ll need to perform well on exams.

But what if you’re not good at taking tests?

Many students get test-taking anxiety or struggle with exam pressure. But you can still perform well on exams, even if you’re not a confident test taker. Here’s how:

Manage your time wisely

When you see the exam paper, note the total number of questions. Calculate how much time you can allocate to each question to finish within the testing period.

If you come to a question you’re unsure about, move on when you reach your self-imposed time limit. Then, you won’t miss answering the questions you do know how to do.

Avoid common mistakes

One of my top tips for how to get good grades is to avoid small errors. Always read questions twice to prevent misreading. If you’re shading your multiple-choice answers, check that you’re shading the answer that corresponds with the correct question.

When you’re nervous, it’s easy to make silly mistakes. Come equipped with the right tools and test-taking practices to stop anxiety in its tracks.

Stay focused for the entire exam

Staying focused is easier said than done. If you’re finding it difficult to concentrate on the task at hand, take a break!

Put your pencil down. Take a sip of water. Breathe deeply. It’s better to pause for a moment to regain clarity than speed through the rest of your exam.

Want to improve your grades by 20-30% right away? Check out my ultimate guide to acing tests and get 58 pages of my best exam-taking tips.

9. Don’t be afraid to ask for help

Your teachers and parents want to help you in your pursuit of academic success. If you need support, don’t be afraid to ask for it.

A study by Saint Louis University researchers found that students who ask for help are more likely to get straight A’s.

That’s not surprising.

But what if I told you the same study found that only 1 in 5 students take the time to ask their instructors for support?

Be one of the few who asks for help when they need it. You’ll likely discover that you no longer worry about how to do better in school.

10. Reward yourself for making progress

You’ve worked hard to get good grades. When you’ve made progress in terms of your habits and attitude, it’s time to celebrate!

Rewarding yourself now will help you continue to get good grades in the future.

The key is to connect the increased effort to a positive feeling or outcome. You’ll stay motivated to continue working hard — and it’ll make studying more fun too!

Remember, learning how to get good grades is just as important as finding school-life balance. Rewarding yourself when you make progress is an excellent way to do that.

The bottom line

You’re already capable of getting good grades.

All you need are the right strategies to help you become a more effective student.

I guarantee that the tips in this article will help, so try them out today!

(If you haven’t already done so, make sure to download your free quick action guide below.)

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12 Guaranteed Ways for Students to Improve Focus and Reduce Procrastination.

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