How do I study?

[justarandomteen]

Yeah, for an eighth grader, this sounds bad (going into 8th). Anyway, in 7th and 6th grade I was really arrogant with education, and I never studied. Basically, I was too lazy and knew the subject, and still got straight As (except for French, if it weren't for the final test [I finally studied], I would've ended the year with an 83 average in that class). Basically, in eighth grade, I heard that classes and tests are going to be harder, and I need to study. So, VT, what do you think is the most efficient, easiest, and quickest way of studying (can be for any subject, language, math, english, science, social studies).

Thanks!

[The37thElement]

I just finished eighth grade with all A's. I don't usually have trouble in school as everything comes naturally to me. I do feel as though eighth grade is the year where you start realizing that your grades do matter, and doing poorly in middle school WILL NOT help you in high school. Anyway, the tests in eighth grade are almost no different than a test you would find in seventh grade. The only real difference is that the teacher does not give time extensions, and you will usually have to complete the test during the given amount of time.

Obviously, studying is ideal for one who is on the track to a successful career. Studying in general starts with simply paying attention in class. Taking notes and listening for key information is certainly required. Writing down these key points in a notebook might be helpful when you are reviewing information for an upcoming test/quiz/exam. You should also ALWAYS, and I mean ALWAYS do your homework. Not only is homework part of your grade, it is also part of your success. Doing your homework IS a form of studying, and it allows you and your instructor to keep track of where you are in terms of skills. If you have trouble doing homework alone, ask a parent, sibling, friend, or even the teacher if they can help you.

Finding a quiet, well lit study area that is free of distractions is also necessary. If you are with people who you feel are going to be a distraction, let them know that you are studying and that you need a quiet work environment. You may also want to grab a snack if you know you will be working for a long period of time. After every assignment completed, take a 5-10 minute break and let your brain rest. Return to your work space ready to do your best. Organization is also key. Keep every subject divided up into folders. When the teacher gives an assignment, write down the due date in your student planner (usually provided) and put any papers in a folder so they won't get lost. At the end of every week, ask the teacher for your current grade. You may think that this will bug them, but it doesn't, it lets them know that you care about your work ethic.

Following these steps will help you through eighth grade. Remember, if you have any questions or concerns please contact me, I will be glad to help. School is what you make of it. If you act bad, then it will turn out bad. If you act good, it will turn out good.

[Mirkwood]

To me, eighth grade is a tough grade, because you will have tests and exams to prepare for the future. But study is not hard as you thought.
The solution to solve this problem, I suggest you to read this book by Bobbi Deporter & Mike Hernaki: "Quantum Learning: Unleashing the Genius in You". I've read it before and there are some ways that I think is really useful:)
As Eli said, find a quiet place is really important, because you can focus more than studying while your bro's playing next to you (example). Also, try to make you comfortable as possible, so you will feel that study is not pressure. Meanwhile, you should try to listen to some Baroque by Bach, Handel, Vivaldi and Pachelbel :P.
Some of my ideas have been spoken by Eli, so, yeah, if you act good at school, your eighth year will be good:D

Best wishes.

[Svan]

I got straight A's in high school, and I know it seems dumb but making flash cards and getting people to quiz me really helped out a lot.

[goodnightxmoonx]

I got straight As with a lot of A+s most years from 5th to 7th grade (even straight A+s once! :D). It's important to review and preview the things you'll learn in class, especially if you find that class difficult/ you think it will be hard for you. That way, you know what you are struggling with and can ask the teacher questions that target that area. Also, make sure you do ask the teacher questions if you don't understand anything. Take good notes. Those will help you a lot more than your textbook, especially if your teacher might test stuff that's not in the textbook... Also, studying with a friend can be helpful but those could quickly turn into chatting sessions and stuff. Be sure that you're quizzing each other and just being productive.
Good luck! I'm going into eighth also. :)