What differentiates a mediocre 2.5 student with a grade point average (GPA) from one who is always on the dean's list and who receives accolades from various academic circles for their achievements? It's not necessarily that the heterosexual "A" student is smarter than the other; it could be that the dean's list scholar has mastered the science behind the exams. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to exam success, there are proven recipes for success that give those who use them an advantage. The purpose of this essay is to give the struggling student a few more tools in their academic toolbox to help them succeed on their next college exam. A solid strategy is essential for exam success. So you've attended classes, taken notes, and maybe even participated in a few study groups. The time is fast approaching and that big exam is fast approaching. Are you ready for this? Unless you have a concrete approach, the answer is probably no. A 2006 study showed that poor study skills were directly related to poor grades Proctor, Prevatt, Adams, Reaser & Petscher (2006). This is not to say that these students did not study, but rather that they had no strategies. Dr. John Grohol, Founder and CEO of Psych Central offers the following suggestions Grohol, J (2006). Develop a study plan. Take regular breaks and reward yourself. Grohol writes “find a reward that is small but real…by setting limits on your behavior, actually teaching yourself discipline, which will be a practical skill to learn throughout life.” Set aside time each day to focus solely on studying. Make it something you can actually stick to, say 30-60 minutes......in the middle of a sheet......(2005) you can do it! A guide for the adult learner returning to school mid-career. Silver Lake Publishing. Aberdeen, WA. Grohol, J. (2006). 10 highly effective study habits. Psychology Center. Retrieved November 7, 2013 from http://psychcentral.com/lib/top-10-most-effective-study-habits/000599.Jacobs, LF and Hyman, JS (2013). The secrets of academic success. Jossey-Bass. San Francisco, CA. Proctor, BE, Prevatt, FF, Adams, KS, Reaser, A., & Petscher, Y. (2006). Study skillsProfiles of university students with normal achievement and academic difficulties. Journal of College Student Development, 47(1), 37-51. Turner, H. (2005) You Can Do It! A guide for the adult learner returning to school mid-career.Silver Lake Publishing.Aberdeen, WA.