Maximizing Grades in College
In this video, I’m going to talk about maximizing your grades in college courses like calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, and physics. Too often, students go into these courses thinking, I’m going to master this subject, get an A, and answer every question right. That’s the wrong mindset. Instead, you need to approach these courses with the expectation that you might answer questions wrong and focus on maximizing points rather than perfection.
Point Maximization Strategy
1. Write Down Formulas First
Start your exam by writing the relevant formulas, definitions, or theorems for each question. Don’t try to solve the problems right away—just identify what’s needed. For example, if you have 10 questions, and you write down the correct formula for each, you can secure 50% credit on every question without even solving them. That’s because professors grade based on whether you know the process, not just the final answer.
2. Structure Your Solutions
After writing the formulas, organize your solutions step by step:
- Step 0: Write the formula or theorem.
- Step 1: Plug in the information from the question.
- Step 2: Show the arithmetic or calculations clearly.
- Step 3: Write your final answer neatly.
Neatness matters. Professors and TAs grading hundreds of exams appreciate clarity. Poor handwriting or disorganized work can cost you points, even if your solution is correct. Women tend to get better grades partly because their handwriting is often clearer than men’s, so take the time to make your work legible.
3. Assume You’ll Answer Wrong
By expecting mistakes, you can strategize effectively. Even if you get the final answers wrong, showing your work and attempting each step can push you from a 50% to a 75% score. That’s a C without answering a single question correctly. If your professor curves grades, that 75% could even translate to an A, depending on the class average.
Before the Exam
1. Prepare Key Formulas
Before looking at the questions, flip the test over and jot down any formulas or definitions you’ve memorized. This helps you avoid “blanking out” when the pressure hits. Your brain isn’t a computer; it can’t perfectly download and retrieve information. Preparing a few days before the exam gives your mind time to absorb the material, like resting before a marathon.
2. Don’t Cram
Cramming the night before is like working out intensely before a big race—it sets you up for failure. You need to prepare days in advance and give your brain time to rest so it can perform at its best during the exam.
Homework vs. Exams
Many students obsess over getting 100% on their homework, but most courses weigh homework at 5% or less of your grade. Meanwhile, exams make up 90% or more. Spending hours perfecting homework doesn’t prepare you for tests. Instead:
- Finish your homework quickly.
- Turn it into a practice exam by redoing the problems in a timed, calculator-free setting.
- Focus on practicing how to take exams, not just solving homework problems.
You’ll hear students say, I’m just bad at taking tests, but the real issue is they don’t practice test-taking. If you don’t simulate exam conditions, how can you expect to succeed?
Professionalism and Perspective
College isn’t daycare—it’s preparation for a career. Ask yourself: If my future employer saw how I handle college, would they hire me? Are you missing lectures, half-heartedly doing assignments, or cramming at the last minute? That’s not behavior an employer would reward with a six-figure salary. Treat college like a professional job. Show up, be prepared, and put in consistent effort across all areas.
Closing Thoughts
My goal is to share this advice so you can avoid the mistakes I made. I’ve been through challenges—abuse, trauma, neglect, and even severe illness like COVID—and I’ve learned the hard way. A smart person learns from their mistakes; a wise person learns from others’. Be wise.
Focus on maximizing points, practicing exams, and preparing strategically. Mastery can come later, even in graduate school or during a PhD. For now, your goal is to navigate college successfully and mature into a responsible adult.
Subscribe to my channel for more lessons and crash courses. You can also hire me for private tutoring or submit questions for me to cover in my videos. I have 15 years of experience as a professional tutor, and I’m here to help you succeed.
Jonathan David
Practice exams. Maximize points. You’ve got this!
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