I’ve had my fair share of late night cram sessions. I’m used to jumping on a FaceTime call with some classmates or texting paragraph-long questions back and forth in group chats. But even with the help of my classmates, I rarely felt like I understood the material until my teacher explained it the next day in class. 

It was then that I realized that I should always ask my teacher first. Turning to classmates might be convenient, but ultimately, teachers are the best resource for working through difficulties and accomplishing full understanding. 

Students should prioritize building positive relationships with their teachers early on so that when conflicts arise they can communicate honestly and efficiently. 

Too often, instead of a teacher, students first turn to their fellow classmates. That’s a mistake.

Other students aren’t the best source for sorting out difficulties. While classmates can be helpful for reviewing materials or studying for a test, they can’t always provide substantial support for confusion, as they are often still learning the content themselves. 

Study sessions aren’t necessarily much help either. Although they create spaces for students to strengthen friendships, they can easily become unfocused and cause spiraling. Rather than fostering real understanding, study groups can unintentionally reinforce shared confusion. 

A more effective and often overlooked solution is to simply ask your teacher. It may seem obvious, but your teacher is the best resource as they understand both the material and the specific context of your class better than any classmate, sibling or tutor. 

If you’re hesitant to approach your teacher, you can reduce this discomfort by establishing a relationship with your teacher early in the year. Then asking for help won’t feel like a first-time interaction. 

A simple greeting before class, asking about their weekend or saying goodbye when you leave the classroom can help establish a positive relationship with your teacher and show that you are respectful and engaged. 

When you’re able to approach your teacher with questions, you can eliminate stress early and avoid late-night cram sessions. With clarity and understanding, you can focus your energy on practicing the material and applying what you have learned, instead of being stuck on the basics. 

Our teachers have dedicated their careers to helping students achieve academic success. So when we experience uncertainty, we should let them help us. Not just when we’re sitting in the classroom but the minute we find ourselves struggling.