How I did it: I started by working out early what my assessments and exams were worth, and working out the minimum mark I needed to achieve the end result. Eg: my GPA was 5.909 in December 2009, so I needed 3 distinctions and 1 High distinction overall in courses in the March-June semester to break into the 6.0 territory. I treated every single piece of work as important, and central to the end goal. I took notes in every lecture and tutorial, with my goal in mind, and ended up using them lots in study and reference. When I failed to get the minimum mark on assignments/essays/coursework, I spent lots of time with the teacher asking questions about how to achieve better marks, and how to develop my techniques and methods. I spent lots of time proof reading my assignments, I believe you pick up 10 marks just by finishing a few days early, printing out the draft a few days later, and ruthlessly revising/editing with a RED pen.

Lessons & tips: - Micromanage, work out what everything is worth and set small goals!
- Spend as much time as possible with the teacher, and listen to what they have to say about how you can improve.
- Practice good habits; finish things early and revise them several times.

Resources: A good, inky, bright red pen!

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Feb 16, 2011, 09:13AM PST | 0 comments | 1 cheer