ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — High school students seeking strong grades may need to adjust their strategies as coursework becomes more challenging.

Many students start with general-level classes as freshmen and move into honors courses as sophomores. Upperclassmen often pursue advanced placement or dual enrollment classes. As classes increase in difficulty, students may need new approaches to stay successful.

Experts recommend several strategies:

• Build a solid foundation. Students should master the basics before advancing to more difficult material. Gaps in foundational knowledge can make assignments and tests harder, experts say. Reviewing previous lessons regularly helps reinforce understanding.
• Engage in active learning. Rather than passively reading texts, students can ask questions, quiz classmates, teach concepts to others, and make notes of key ideas to improve retention.
• Manage time effectively. With multiple classes, overlapping assignments, and frequent tests, students benefit from organizational tools like day planners and digital reminders. Breaking large projects into smaller steps can make work more manageable.
• Seek help early. Students should not wait until they fall behind to get assistance. Teachers, tutors, study groups, or academic coaches can provide valuable support.
• Study regularly. Frequent review and the use of visual aids such as diagrams or concept maps can reinforce learning. Revisiting earlier lessons often aids understanding of new material.
• Prioritize balance and self-care. Maintaining a healthy balance between academics and personal life helps prevent burnout and stress, which can interfere with learning.

As students continue to challenge themselves, adopting effective strategies can help them navigate more difficult coursework successfully.