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If you were born potty-trained, knew three languages by the time you could talk, and graduated from high school before you reached puberty, you can skip this article. Go ahead, click on another link.

Now, for the rest of you, let me share a secret.... A  

4.0

  is within your reach. You don't need an overall picture. Check out the main points, summary statements, and headings. Then ask yourself, Why would this be true? How does this fit in with what I've already learned? What don't I understand?

Put your book down and explain it in your own words. The best way to remember new information is by rephrasing, summarizing, verifying, and reviewing. Study groups can be helpful for reviewing, if you can all stay focused.

The more ways you engage your brain (reading, listening, writing, summarizing), the longer you'll retain the information and the sooner you'll be on your way to a 4.0.

Memory-Stretching Techniques
I once watched a man memorize 25 names, birthdays, and hometowns in less than five minutes. He amazed audiences around the country with his memory skills. After the show I asked him how he did it. "It's easy," he told me. "Just remember the acronym C.A.R."

He explained that "C" stood for concentration. When presented with new information, focus, pay close attention, and observe it carefully. Notice the details and patterns. Take a mental picture. Then, practice "A" for association. Look for connections or similarities with things you know, or are reminded of. The more bizarre the association, the more memorable it will be. Finally, use "R" for repetition to lock it into your long-term memory. Repeat information you already know. Rephrase it in your own way and review it often.

test-taking tips
Read your test carefully. Professors don't necessarily try to trip you up, but keep an eye out for words like "always," "never," and "not." Do what you know first, and be careful to answer every question. Pace yourself by glancing over the test and spending more time on the questions with the most possible points. When tackling multiple-choice questions, read all the choices, eliminate the obvious, and then consider your options. Relax and have confidence in your preparation, envisioning your perfect 4.0.

Insider Secrets
Dr. John Paul Abner, a professor at Milligan College, Milligan, TN (a lifelong 4.0 student, by the way), suggests, "The best thing you can do is schedule your classes as early as possible in the morning." According to Dr. Abner, you'll be more focused, think more clearly, and be better able to manage your time.

And, sit near the front. Studies show that people who sit near the front of the room get better grades. Why? There are fewer distractions, you can see and hear better, and you'll feel more compelled to ask questions.

Remember, academic excellence is personal. Don't compare yourself with others. Spend time each day in meaningful preparation and study. And stay committed. Former college basketball head coach Bobby Knight defines self-discipline as "Doing what you have to do, when you have to do it; and doing it as well as you can, all of the time." If you do that, you'll find academic success and the elusive 4.0--even if you're not a natural-born genius.

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