Make 2025 Your Year: Proven Tips to Boost Grades and Skills

some experienced tips for your academic comeback.

Fri Jan 10, 2025

Introduction

As the new year unfolds, it brings a fresh chapter in our lives—a chance to start afresh, set new goals, and make impactful decisions. With this spirit, we’re delighted to announce that the January 2025 term for the IIT Madras BS Degree officially begins on January 10, 2025.

This term is your opportunity to make an academic comeback, improve your performance, and set the foundation for future success. Let’s dive into strategies to help you excel in this term and beyond


Reflecting on the Past Year

The past year may have been filled with ups and downs, academic challenges, or personal achievements. No matter how it went, acknowledge your journey and the efforts you’ve made so far. Each step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goals.

With the new term comes the opportunity to realign your focus, refine your strategies, and aim for excellence. Let’s make this academic comeback a remarkable one.


Your Comeback Plan: Proven Tips to Boost CGPA and Skills

Here are some effective strategies to improve your CGPA and overall academic skills this term:


1. Group Study for Better Understanding

Studying in a group helps you learn from peers, clarify doubts, and gain diverse perspectives. Engaging in discussions often makes complex concepts easier to grasp.

Tip: Assign topics for each group member to explain during sessions. This not only helps the presenter understand the topic deeply but also enriches everyone’s knowledge


2. Make and Use Your Own Notes

Personalized notes are one of the best tools for quick revision. Writing notes improves retention and understanding. As exams approach, these notes become a concise reference for efficient studying.

Tip: Structure your notes with headings, subheadings, and key points. Use diagrams, charts, and highlights for better clarity and retention.


3. Consistent Practice for Mastery

Consistency is the secret to mastering any subject. Daily or weekly review of topics, along with problem-solving, ensures you stay updated and confident throughout the term.

Tip: Use mock tests, practice quizzes, and online resources to enhance your preparation.

4. Focus on Easy Subjects (Foundation Level)


If you’re at the foundation level, prioritize subjects that are relatively easier to score in, such as:

English 1 & English 2: Focus on grammar, comprehension, and vocabulary to ace these subjects.

Computational Thinking (CT): Strengthen your logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.

Python Programming: Practice coding regularly to improve accuracy and speed.

Scoring well in these subjects can significantly boost your CGPA and confidence.

Tip: Begin your preparation with these subjects to build momentum and achieve maximum marks early on.


5. Ace Quiz 1 and Quiz 2 for All Levels


Quizzes play a crucial role in determining your final grades. Scoring high in Quiz 1 and Quiz 2 lays a strong foundation for the rest of the term.

Tip: Review past quizzes, revise thoroughly, and dedicate extra time to prepare for these assessments

Strategies for Every Level

Foundation Level: Prioritize easy subjects like English 1, English 2, CT, and Python. Use the momentum from these subjects to strengthen your overall GPA.


Diploma Level: Focus on subjects with higher weightage, allocate time for challenging topics, and keep revising consistently.


Degree Level: Collaborate with peers and faculty to tackle advanced topics. Focus on in-depth understanding and consistent practice.

Bonus Tips for Skill Enhancement

While academics are crucial, don’t forget to work on enhancing your skills alongside:

Improve Communication Skills: Engage in discussions, presentations, and writing tasks to enhance your ability to express ideas effectively.

Learn Time Management: Use productivity tools like planners or apps to organize your study schedule and meet deadlines.

Explore Online Resources: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or YouTube can help you supplement your learning and develop new skills.


From Me to You: A Word of Motivation

No matter where you are in your academic journey, this is the perfect time to refocus and work towards your goals. Challenges may arise, but with determination, consistency, and the right strategies, you can overcome them all.

Use this term to rediscover your potential and create a strong foundation for the future. Remember, progress is a journey, and every effort counts. Let 2025 be the year you not only achieve your academic goals but also grow as an individual.

Here’s to a successful term and an incredible academic comeback

Conclusion

As the new term begins, it’s time to take charge of your academic journey and aim for excellence. Whether you're at the foundation, diploma, or degree level, the key to success lies in consistent effort and smart strategies. Focus on easy-to-score subjects like English 1, English 2, Computational Thinking (CT), and Python if you're in the foundation level. Prioritize Quiz 1 and Quiz 2 for all levels, as they form the backbone of your performance.

Adopt practices like group study, creating your own notes, and maintaining consistency in your preparation. Beyond academics, enhance your skills with time management, communication, and additional resources

To further enrich your learning experience, explore Let’s Learn courses—your go-to platform for structured, comprehensive, and interactive content. From mastering Python programming to enhancing communication skills, these courses are designed to complement your academic goals and help you stay ahead in your journey.

Take the first step today. With the right mindset and resources, 2025 can be the year you achieve remarkable success. Let’s learn, grow, and thrive together!

Anas Khan
Student at IIT Madras BS and a Tech Geek.