How it works
Determine the score you need on your final exam to achieve your target overall grade.
Input query strings and outputs
Use an input name in this page’s URL as ?name=value, and join additional inputs with &. Portable shared links may instead use the compact ?ac= state parameter.
Input query strings
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?currentGrade=Current Grade (%)Number · Optional · Default: 85
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?targetGrade=Target Grade (%)Number · Optional · Default: 90
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?finalWeight=Final Weight (%)Number · Optional · Default: 20
Outputs
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resultResultText · Primary output
result contains the calculator’s complete rendered result area, including its visible result cards, tables, charts, and messages.
Calculate the final exam grade you need to reach your target
Description
The Grade Calculator is a stress-reducing tool for students heading into finals week. It answers the classic question: “What do I need to get on the final to pass the class with a [Target Grade]?” By entering your current standing and the weight of the final exam, the tool works backward to find the exact percentage you need to achieve.
Inputs
- Current Grade (%): Your overall grade in the class right now.
- Target Grade (%): The final grade you want to see on your transcript (e.g., 90% for an A).
- Final Exam Weight (%): What percentage of your total grade the final exam is worth (often found in the syllabus).
Outputs
- Required Final Grade: The minimum score you need on the final to hit your target.
Chart
- N/A: This tool provides a direct numeric target result.
“Good to Know”
- Weighted Impact: If the final is only worth 10%, it will be very hard to move your overall grade significantly. If it’s worth 50%, your performance on that one test can change your grade by multiple letters.
- Managing Expectations: Sometimes the math will show you need more than 100% on the final to reach your goal. This is a sign to look for extra credit opportunities or adjust your target!
- Rounding: Most schools round a 89.5% up to a 90%. Keep this in mind when setting your target!
Examples
Example 1: High Stakes Final
- Input: Current Grade: 85%, Target: 90%, Weight: 30%
- Output: 101.67% (You’ll need a bit of extra credit!)
Example 2: Maintaining an A
- Input: Current Grade: 94%, Target: 90%, Weight: 20%
- Output: 74.00% (You have a comfortable cushion.)
Example 3: Pushing for a B
- Input: Current Grade: 78%, Target: 80%, Weight: 15%
- Output: 91.33%