A new semester. A clean slate. January is the perfect time to set powerful, intelligent goals for algebra.

Don't just say 'I want to get an A.' That's a wish, not a goal. A goal has a process.

Goal 1: The Habit Goal. 'I will complete my algebra homework the day it is assigned, no matter what.'

Goal 2: The Support Goal. 'I will go to my teacher's office hours at least twice this semester before I'm in trouble.'

Goal 3: The Process Goal. 'I will check my answer for every single problem on every test and quiz.'

Goal 4: The Mastery Goal. 'Before each chapter test, I will be able to solve every problem in the chapter review without looking at my notes.'

Notice that these are all things you can *control*.

You cannot control what questions are on the test. You CAN control your habits, your process, and your level of preparation.

Write these goals down. Put them in the front of your algebra binder.

A good grade is not a goal; it's the *result* of achieving your process goals. Focus on the process.