A middle school student wanting to improve study habits should first:

The best first step for a middle school student looking to improve their study habits is to list goals in order by priority. This approach allows the student to clearly define what they want to achieve academically and helps them focus their efforts on the most important tasks. By prioritizing goals, the student can create a structured plan that addresses specific areas of improvement, whether it’s mastering certain subjects, enhancing their understanding of difficult topics, or developing effective study techniques.

Setting priorities is essential, especially in a middle school environment where students often juggle multiple subjects and activities. Without a clear framework for what needs to be accomplished, it can be easy to become overwhelmed or distracted by less important tasks. By outlining goals in order of importance, the student can allocate their time and resources more effectively, leading to a higher likelihood of success in their studies.

Other options, while beneficial in certain contexts, do not address the foundational step of establishing clear priorities. For example, asking teachers for extra credit opportunities might not address underlying study habits that need improvement. Purchasing new study materials may not be necessary if the student hasn’t yet identified what specific areas they need to focus on. Joining a study group can be helpful but is most effective when the student has already set goals and knows what subjects