Being a good student doesn’t mean sitting in the front of the class with every colour highlighter. Instead it’s the characteristics of a successful student that sets them apart from the rest. Get a glimpse of what these traits are and how you can become a top student right here.
Characteristics of a Successful Student
Your skills and knowledge may help you complete your course. However, it is your characteristics that drive you to the end goal. Key characteristics of a successful student includes being:
- Self-motivated
- Disciplined
- Organised
- Responsible
- Consistent
- Hard-working
Self-motivated
Although they do accept help, a successful student motivates themselves to do their work. They use their study goals to inspire and motivate them to complete their tasks and assignments..
Disciplined
No, this doesn’t mean you have to be an angel. When you are disciplined, you are able to stick to schedules, deadlines and create healthy routines that will make your studies manageable.
Organised
Organisational skills are much more than keeping all your study material in order. When you are organised, it helps you keep track of exam dates, assignments and work you need to complete.
Responsible
When you are a responsible student, you understand the importance of your studies. This helps you make the right decisions and avoid things that stand in the way of getting your qualification.
Consistent
Consistency helps you develop healthy habits, like studying everyday to avoid cramming. You are able to manage stress while studying becomes second nature to you.
Hard-working
A lazy student will procrastinate and find excuses to avoid studying. When you are hard-working, you put in extra effort that will help you ace your course to the best of your ability.

Things you can do to be a Successful Student
If you lack some of these characteristics, fear not. There are habits you can create that will help you develop these characteristics. Once you have them in place, completing your course will be a breeze.
Ready, Set, Goals
When you create study goals, you set a target you would like to reach. This will help you become self-motivated. Remember not to set unrealistic goals. Take it step-by-step like getting your matric or passing a short course.
Plan Your way to Success
If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Become responsible and disciplined when you plan. A daily planner will help you keep track of your course and modules you need to focus on first. A study schedule will help you plan which subjects to study to avoid cramming for an exam.
Stock up on Your Resources
Gain the knowledge you need to complete your course with study resources. Stock up on material like:
- Matric past exam papers
- Textbooks
- Study guides
- Study notes
Once you have your resources, start reading and study a bit every day. It will help you become consistent and retain information easier.
Healthy Body, Healthy Mind
Eating chips and cake everyday might seem like a dream. But your body needs nutrients to keep up with the busy life of a student. Feast on brain foods like dark chocolate, blueberries, nuts and broccoli.
Nap Time
Did you know, sleeping after an intense study session will help you remember that you studied? Rest is vital, and will help you gain the energy to be a hard-working student. It will help you stay organised and focused. Get a full night’s rest and nap between study breaks.
Balance Your Social Life
No need to delete your social media or call a timeout on your social life. You can still have fun with a well-balanced lifestyle. This is a great way to teach you responsibility and discipline.




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Become an A Student With us
Our wide range of courses are a great way to put your skills to the test. Study with us via distance learning. You will be one step closer to your dream career. Contact one of our course experts for more details. You can:
- Call us on 0800 39 00 27
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