Your college GPA may impact your options for graduate school and scholarships. Luckily, there are many ways to improve your grades, from using an essay writing service to joining a study group. Here are eight college and university tips for students that want to boost their GPA with less effort.

1. Set Academic Goals Throughout the Year

Setting goals is a great way to motivate yourself. Choose specific academic goals to aim for throughout the year. You should create long-term goals that cover the entire semester and school year and short-term goals for the coming day, week, and month.

For example, you may want to achieve a specific grade or devote a specific number of hours to studying. Goals help you stay focused by giving you something specific to work toward.

2. Use the Library to Study without Distractions

If you find it difficult to study in your dorm due to constant distractions from other students, go to the library. The library offers a quiet environment and access to a wealth of information. You may find helpful information in physical books that you cannot find online.

3. Find a Study Group That Fits Your Schedule

A study group can help you improve in a specific subject. Sharing information with other students and listening to their studying habits may help you improve your learning strategies.

To increase your chances of sticking with your study group, form a group that fits your schedule. For example, you may need to meet on a specific day of the week or a certain time of the day.

4. Use Essay Writing Services to Save Time

An essay writing service can help you complete assignments faster. Essay writing services include access to skilled writers who can research and write essays on just about any topic.

The time that you save with the essays may help you study more in other subjects, which can bring up your grades.

5. Avoid Taking Unnecessary Courses

Stick with the required curriculum for your field of study instead of filling your schedule with electives and extracurricular activities.

Avoiding classes that you do not need can help keep your schedule manageable. You end up with more time for each class instead of spreading yourself too thin.

6. Request Extensions When Necessary

Do not be afraid to ask for an extension if you are struggling to meet a deadline. Many professors and instructors are willing to accept assignments at later dates if the delay is due to an issue that is out of your control.

For example, if you are experiencing any health issues, family commitments, or other problems that interfere with your education, you may be able to get an extension on an assignment or essay.

7. Improve Your Note-Taking Skills

Taking notes during a lecture can dramatically increase your understanding of a topic. The notes that you take are likely to provide a blueprint for your studying and help you comprehend the material better. However, not everyone is good at taking notes.

You may need to work on your note-taking skills. Practice writing notes whenever your professor discusses a topic, even if you already grasp the information. Taking notes during every class can help you develop your note-taking ability.

8. Take a Pretest before Studying a Topic

Many students are familiar with the idea of taking a sample test after reviewing a topic. However, you may get better results by taking a sample test before you study instead of afterward.

Taking a pretest before you study gives you the chance to see what information you already know. You also gain a general idea of the type of information covered in the lesson before you begin studying.