How to be a successful student

enough to allow a balanced lifestyle of thorough study, sufficient

sleep and regular exercise and recreation. Many people overestimate how much they can get done in a day. If you are overworked, seriously consider dropping an optional club or activity. To overcome fear of disappointing people, remind yourself that a few things done with excellence will be more satisfying than many things left undone.

charting the due dates of every major assignment from every

class in a calendar. Then, work backward to define milestones you need to complete by certain dates. For example, if you have a 10-page research paper due in a month, aim to have a full draft done a week before the due date, 5 pages written by the week before that and an outline the week before that. Treat the milestones like regular assignments to avoid last-minute panic when major deadlines loom.

to create an accountability system. This person can apply unpleasant

consequences if you miss your milestones. For example, give your roommate a copy of your calendar and tell him you will give him $10 for each missed deadline. Alternatively, ask a teacher to ask you for the partial completions (such as a copy of your outline or 5-page draft) on the dates you have specified. If you are truly brave, you could even ask your teacher to treat the deadlines you set as real due dates and dock points if you do not meet them.

on time or understanding a subject. Seek out resources at

your school, such as a writing help center or subject-specific tutors. Instead of looking down on you for not understanding, most educators will be eager for the chance to work with a student who cares enough to seek help. Another way to get help is to form a study group with any classmates who are interested.

working on assignments. Alternate 20 to 30 minutes of working

with 5- to 10-minute breaks to keep your mind fresh and alert. Do your best to avoid other activities during your allotted study times; keeping them consistent will begin to build habits and train your brain to move into study mode at certain times and in certain settings.