I really need to improve my grades. I’m 14 and in year 9, and I’m getting lower marks than I ever have before. I struggle with staying focused and I often procrastinate (I should actually be studying instead of posting this). It’s really upsetting because I don’t want to end up with these grades, but I find it hard to concentrate on my studies.
Should I pursue A Levels or apply to a college in the USA? I’m currently an IGCSE student planning to take the May-June 2025 exams, and I’m considering whether I should take the SAT online and apply to a U.S. college at 16 or wait two years to complete my A Levels. While I believe […]
How can I study every subject independently? Unfortunately, I live in Israel, and the education system here isn’t great. There is a lot of content taught in high school that I know I won’t use later on. I didn’t even have a science class this year, and the science I received in previous years was […]
Navigating Parental Discipline and Academic Expectations: A Personal Reflection As a high school sophomore striving to balance academics and personal interests, I recently encountered a challenging situation that many students might relate to. My parents decided to confiscate my computer until early June due to my recent performance in chemistry—specifically, receiving three F’s on assignments. […]
It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, especially at your age and with everything that’s going on in school! The first step is to acknowledge how you’re feeling — it’s okay to feel stressed about grades and studying. Here are a few tips that might help you get back on track:
Set Small Goals: Instead of trying to study for long hours, break your study time into smaller, manageable chunks. Set a timer for 25 minutes to study, and then take a 5-minute break. This technique, known as the Pomodoro Technique, can help you stay focused.
Create a Study Schedule: Plan out when and what subjects you want to study each day. Having a clear plan can help you stay organized and reduce procrastination.
Find a Study Space: Try to find a quiet and comfortable place that is free from distractions. A dedicated study area can help signal to your brain that it’s time to focus.
Limit Distractions: Put your phone on silent or in another room while you study. If you’re studying online, consider using apps that block distracting websites.
Stay Positive: Instead of focusing on the grades, try to concentrate on the progress you’re making. Celebrate small achievements to keep yourself motivated.
Talk to Someone: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a teacher, parent, or friend about how you’re feeling. Sometimes just talking it out can relieve some of the pressure.
Practice Self-Care: Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking time to relax. Your mental well-being is just as important as your grades.
Remember, it’s okay to struggle sometimes, and asking for help shows strength. You’ve got this!