The first, the most important is Do your homework Take your homework seriously and try hard problems, even if you're not sure on them. If you are really having trouble, ask a friend or a parent, Understand that presentation matters. Say you have to complete a map on the names of all the states in the U.S. and their capitals. Do it neatly, add color and you could even cover it with contact paper. Try typing it if you have a bad handwriting and be neat. Ask to seek clarification. If you are confused on something in class, ask the teacher. Teachers love questions, but not too many. Remember not to bug her/him all the time with endless questions. When asking them, be polite, simple, and get to the point. Only ask what you're confused on though, because teachers can tell whether or not you are confused.