by Lidya Sin

Created on: September 11, 2009   Last Updated: September 13, 2009

Studying doesn't have to be burden or a daunting task. It can be fun and challenging, and especially now that you are in high school, you can choose the subjects you prefer. High school is also your preparation for college, so the subjects you are studying will be useful for you in your college years.

Many people think that diligent and A+ students spend most of their time studying, without having fun at all. But I found that the happiest and high achieving students study more effectively, instead of longer. You can spend hours staring at your books, but if you don't study effectively, you'll be frustrated.

You don't have to spend most of your time studying, but you can still get good grades if you follow these hints and tips.

First of all, preparation. Take about fifteen minutes the night before to read the books for tomorrow's lesson. Highlight parts you don't understand. You'll give yourself a head start this way. You'll be able to listen and ask questions more effectively because your brain has processed the lesson before other students do.

Second, and the most important of all, pay attention to your teacher in class. You must sit in class whether you like it or not. So why not make the most of it? If you listen to your teachers, you'll be able to comprehend about 50% or more of the material they taught. It will reduce your studying time at home and give you more time to do something you like. Sure you sometimes dislike the teachers, but they are paid to teach you. If you don't use their service, it's your loss, not theirs. Remember, you study for yourself, not for your teachers.

In class, ask questions if you don't understand. Be assertive. You can even ask the teachers for extra lessons if they have time. Some teachers do make a study group outside of class. Make full use of it. It's cheaper than finding a tutor. Take notes. Teachers usually highlight the important parts of the lesson so you can focus your studying. Do assignments. Teachers often give similar questions for tests.

If you got quite good enough grades and your friends ask you to teach them, do it! Not only you will help your friends, you will gain deeper understanding of the subject. I got A on my statistic class once, but it was not until I taught as Teaching Assistant of the subject that I understand it fully. It was very useful when I wrote my thesis.

At home, after the teacher taught you the lesson, immediately do your assignments if you have any. Or if you don't have any, spend

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