How to Avoid Carryovers as a Fresher in University: When I think about my first days in the university, I remember how excited I was and at the same time a bit scared. I want to be honest—one thing I didn’t want at all was a carryover. Nobody enjoys doing a course twice. A carryover simply means you didn’t meet the pass mark, so you’ll have to face that course again in the next session. It slows you down, affects your CGPA, and I will say it even stresses your mind. But from what I’ve seen, you can actually avoid carryovers if you plan yourself well. So I have decided to put down the things that helped me and the things I wish someone told me earlier.
1. Attend Your Lectures Regularly
Let’s check it—many freshers don’t take lectures seriously at first. I also felt like skipping once in a while. But when I finally started attending regularly, I noticed lecturers say things in class that you won’t see in slides or handouts.
Let’s say for example, a lecturer explains a theory and gives a story behind it. That story might show up in the exam. If you weren’t in class, you wouldn’t know. So I want to advise any fresher: just attend your lectures. It helps more than you think.
2. Take Notes and Study Consistently
I will not pretend—good notes saved me several times. Instead of depending only on photocopies or someone else’s notebook, I prefer writing my own notes because I remember things easier that way.
However, taking notes is not the end. You must study them. I learned the hard way that waiting until exam week is a big mistake. So now, I read a small part of my notes every few days. Let’s say for example you read just one topic per week; by exam time, you won’t panic.
3. Understand Your Course Outline
I have seen students ignore the course outline, but it actually guides your whole semester. It shows you what the lecturer plans to teach and how the course is structured.
Most lecturers set exam questions directly from there. So when you understand the outline, you already know what to expect. This simple thing helped me stay organised.
4. Don’t Miss Continuous Assessments (C.A)
In many schools, C.A is 30%–40%. If you miss it, even if you write the exam well, your score may still not reach the pass mark.
I want to say this very clearly: never miss tests, attendance marking, or assignments. Join your class WhatsApp group. Ask your course rep questions. Remind your friends to remind you. Even 2 marks can save you from a carryover.
5. Manage Your Time Wisely
Time runs fast in the university. One moment you are chilling, and the next moment exam timetable is out. I used to waste a lot of time, but I later realised I needed a personal timetable.
I now divide my day into reading time, rest time, and other activities. It’s not perfect, but it keeps me from getting overwhelmed. When you plan your time well, you won’t rush or forget important things.
6. Join Study Groups
I want to say that study groups helped me in difficult courses, especially when I got confused reading alone. When you listen to others, you understand faster.
Let’s say for example you don’t get a math topic, but someone in your group explains it in a simple way—just like that, your brain clears. But make sure the group is not a gossip group. It should be serious.
7. Avoid Procrastination
Procrastination almost ruined my first semester. I kept saying, “I will read later,” “I will start tomorrow,” and before I knew it, exams were close. When you delay things, your work piles up.
So now I prefer doing assignments early. It gives me peace of mind, and I can rest without guilt. If you avoid procrastination, your chances of carryover will drop sharply.
8. Ask Questions Whenever You’re Confused
I used to feel shy asking questions. But later I realised that those who ask questions often understand faster and even perform better.
Let’s check it if your lecturer explains something you don’t understand, it’s safer to ask immediately than to assume. Confusion is one of the things that leads to carryovers. Asking for help is not weakness.
9. Take Exams Seriously
I want to say something important: exams are not a surprise show. You must prepare. Past questions helped me a lot because they show you how questions are framed and sometimes topics that lecturers like repeating.
Also, read instructions carefully. Some students fail simply because they answered fewer questions than required. Things like that are painful, and I don’t want you to experience it.
10. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Your brain cannot function well if your body is weak. I have seen students read all night but write poorly because they were tired. Eating well, drinking enough water, and sleeping at the right time will help you more than you know.
Even reducing late-night parties or unnecessary outings will save your energy.
11. Use Online Resources
Sometimes your lecturer’s explanation may not be enough. I personally check YouTube videos, articles, and PDFs to understand tough topics.
Let’s say for example you’re struggling with economics—one good explanation online can make everything clearer. Using resources outside the classroom builds your confidence and helps you avoid carryovers.
ALSO READ:
- 10 Easy Ways to Improve Memory as a University Student
- Exam 101: How I Personally Handle Exams and Come Out Confident
- 10 Strong Reasons Why Education Is Better Than Money
- 10+ Alternative Courses to Study with a Low JAMB Score in 2025 (Even Below 200)
Conclusion
I want to end this by saying that avoiding carryovers as a fresher is possible. You don’t need to be the smartest person; you just need to be organised and consistent. Attend classes, do your assignments, manage your time, and read ahead. These little habits will save you from stress.
As you move through the semester, remember that success doesn’t come from doing big things once; it comes from small efforts every day. If you follow these tips in your own way, I believe you will avoid carryovers and build a strong foundation in the university.
