How Grade Calculation Works
Unweighted Grade (Simple Average)
Unweighted grade treats all assignments equally. It's calculated as: (Sum of all percentage scores) รท (Number of assignments)
Example: Test 1 (85/100 = 85%), Test 2 (90/100 = 90%), Final (88/100 = 88%)
Unweighted = (85 + 90 + 88) รท 3 = 87.67%
Unweighted = (85 + 90 + 88) รท 3 = 87.67%
Weighted Grade (Prioritized Average)
Weighted grade considers importance of each assignment. More important assignments (higher weight) have greater impact on final grade. Formula: Sum of (Score % ร Weight %)
Example:
- Test 1: 85% (weight 30%) โ 85 ร 0.30 = 25.5
- Test 2: 90% (weight 30%) โ 90 ร 0.30 = 27.0
- Final: 88% (weight 40%) โ 88 ร 0.40 = 35.2
Weighted = 25.5 + 27.0 + 35.2 = 87.7%
- Test 1: 85% (weight 30%) โ 85 ร 0.30 = 25.5
- Test 2: 90% (weight 30%) โ 90 ร 0.30 = 27.0
- Final: 88% (weight 40%) โ 88 ร 0.40 = 35.2
Weighted = 25.5 + 27.0 + 35.2 = 87.7%
Standard Letter Grade Scale
A
93-100%
A-
90-92%
B+
87-89%
B
83-86%
B-
80-82%
C+
77-79%
C
73-76%
C-
70-72%
D
60-69%
F
0-59%
Tips for Grade Management
- Prioritize weighted assignments: Focus effort on high-weight items for maximum impact
- Calculate "what if" scenarios: Adjust future assignment scores to see what grade you need
- Track throughout semester: Don't wait until finals - know your standing early
- Communicate with professors: If borderline, discuss extra credit or grade rounding policies
- Understand grading scale: Some schools use different scales (e.g., 90-100 = A)