With final grades approaching, this week demands focus rather than new information.

Adding new strategies would only distract from the proven action steps that boost our clients' grades.

That's why I'm directing you back to our two most powerful episodes:

1. "Things to Do Right Now to Improve Grades"
   Jot notes about the actions most relevant to your situation.
2. "Top 10 Reasons Teens Lose Points in Math"
   Download the PDF and identify what resonates with you.

These episodes contain exactly what you need right now to boost your semester grades. If you haven't listened or downloaded the list, please do it now. :)

Then, create a very specific action plan by taking one or more of the steps outlined in the podcast episodes.

If you don't have time or want a shortcut, use the list below to create your action plan.

Step 1: Grade Check Reality

Stop reading for a moment. Open your grade portal right now. Which class needs immediate attention? That's your priority target. Write it down. Lo...

Math tests can feel tricky and many students lose points because of small, preventable mistakes.

I've compiled a list of the most common mistakes that are easy to correct.  Use it to CREATE YOUR OWN CHECKLIST of the mistakes you make most often, with strategies to avoid them in the future.  

Then, use your checklist during homework and to prepare for your tests.  

As a matter of fact, review your last test to see which mistakes you made. By knowing what trips you up most often, you can focus on fixing those specific areas before final exams—and boost your confidence and your grades.

DOWNLOAD THE LIST HERE.

Sample email for your teachers. Remember to copy your parents so they can appreciate the steps you are taking:

Dear [Teacher's Name], 

I hope you are well. I am writing to ask for your support in raising my grade in [Subject]. I have noticed that I am struggling with [specific topics/assignments] and pick one to include

•  wonder if you can meet with me to review it , or
• wonder if you have any advice or resources to help me improve my understanding. 

I am also wondering if there are any additional opportunities for extra credit or ways I can make up missed points in upcoming tests or assignments. 

I’m committed to putting in the effort to improve my grade. 

Thank you for your time and support. 

Best regards, 

[Your Name]]

© 2024 Dynell Garron Coaching, LLC. 

Download your skills list here.

I recently had a chat with a student just like you, and it hit me – we've all been sold a bit of a lie. You know how we expect to learn everything in class and through homework? Well, here's the secret: that's not the whole story.

The students who really excel? They're doing something extra. They're taking time outside of class to truly understand the material. And no, I'm not talking about endless hours of boring study sessions.

I get it. You're probably thinking, "Great, more work? No thanks!"

But hear me out.

If you put in the time, your classes will feel different. I had a student who carved out just 15 minutes a day to study one subject that was giving her trouble. After a month, she felt more comfortable in class, her confidence grew, and her grades improved. All because she took the time to deepen her understanding and strengthen her memory.

She didn’t want to do it at first. But here’s the deal: her brain wasn’t absorbing information the way her teacher was teaching it. S...

Ever get frustrated by a test question that wasn't on the study guide?
In this episode, I'll show you how to never be caught off guard again.

Both Tom and Sarah complete all of their homework and get top grades on their assignments. But, they score pretty low on their tests? Why?

In this episode, I'll share the secret to turning those Cs into As...in as little as 15 minutes a day.  It works for our clients and can work for you also.

Students, listen up: the first 6 weeks of school aren't just about new classes and awkward ice-breakers. These 6 weeks can set you up for success or wreak havoc on your entire school year, and most students have no idea.

It's like there's a hidden countdown ticking away, and once it hits zero, your year's path is locked in. But here's the thing - if you know what's really going down during this make-or-break period, you can avoid the pitfalls.

Stick with me for the next 10 minutes, and I'll show you how to turn these crucial weeks into your personal launchpad for an epic school year (and maybe even impress your parents in the process :).

Have you ever spent hours studying and still struggle on your test? I often hear from students how frustrated they are by studying hard but feeling like nothing sticks. Today's post will help with that. 

Unfortunately, many people believe spending more time studying will lead to better results. Not necessarily. Studying more effectively will lead to better results.  

If you find yourself in this situation, it might be because you haven't given the information a home in your brain. Here's what I mean…

Picture this: Your brain is like a closet. When you're taking a test, you're basically standing in front of that closet, trying to grab the right pair of jeans (aka information) with your eyes closed.

Scenario 1: The Organized Closet

Everything's hung up, color-coded, and sorted. You know exactly where those funky jeans are. Your hand goes right to them. That's what we want our brains to do during a test - reach for info and grab it instantly.

## Scenario 2: The Closet Disaster

Now ...

Hey there!

This quick tip will help you catch the sneaky negative thoughts that make us miserable and sometimes, keep us from excelling or trying new things. 

Take a listen and see if this resonates with you.

Then,  join the Shame Spotlight challenge:

For the next 24 hours, whenever you catch yourself in negative self-talk, pause and say out loud, '"I see you, shame. Not today." Keep a tally of how many times you catch yourself in one day – if you're like most of us, you'll be surprised at just how often this comes up.