How to Become a Teacher's Favorite

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If you're in school, you spend most of your day in class with your teachers. If your teacher doesn't like you, or you don't get along, school can be extra difficult. Getting on your teacher's good side doesn't just mean getting good grades and sucking up, though. What makes a student a teacher's favorite may surprise you.

Part 1
Part 1 of 3:

Showing Enthusiasm About Your Work

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  1. Asking questions shows that you're paying attention to what the teacher is saying. It also shows that you’re really engaged in what you're learning. [1] Some people fear that asking questions will make people think they’re not smart. Actually, asking questions is a great indicator of intelligence and a desire to learn. [2]
    • If you’re going to ask questions, you need to pay attention. For example, if you ask, “When is that assignment due?” and your teacher has already said the due date once, they will think you’re not listening.
    • Be mindful not to ask so many questions that you derail the class and prevent the teacher from finishing the lesson.
  2. This one can be difficult if you have a lot of work, or if you tend to procrastinate. However, turning in assignments on time shows your teacher that you are prioritizing their class. Paying attention can also help you get good grades and many of your teachers will like you. [3]
    • Teachers have busy lives and need time off, just like you. They may have planned to grade all of your class’ papers on Wednesday night. If you turn your paper in on Friday, they will likely be frustrated that they now have to grade your paper over the weekend.
    • If you know that you won’t be able to meet a deadline, talk to your teacher about it in advance. They may be able to grant you an extension.
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  3. It’s always good to do more than the bare minimum for an assignment. Extra efforts can include binding your paper in a nice way to make it more presentable, or doing extra research for an assignment. [4]
    • If a teacher asks for a paper to be a certain length, you can aim to write something a little bit longer than requested, but not much. This shows that you weren’t just stretching to meet the minimum.
    • If you make your paper too long, your teacher may think you’re sucking up or they may not like having to do that much extra reading.
  4. Asking for help shows your teacher that you want to succeed. Many teachers look for this quality in a student, because if you want to succeed you’re likely to take their help and suggestions seriously. [5]
    • Don’t be afraid to approach your teacher during their free period or at the end of the day.
    • You may need help understanding the subject matter, or knowing how to complete the assignment. You should feel comfortable asking for whatever kind of help you need.
    • Asking help from your parents is a good option, too. They can explain things in another perspective, and will most likely love to help you.
    EXPERT TIP

    Alicia Oglesby

    Professional School Counselor
    Alicia Oglesby is an Academic Counseling Expert based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Education at the University of Pittsburgh and working as a Graduate Research Assistant. She was previously employed as the Associate Director of College Counseling at the Winchester Thurston School. Prior to that, she worked as a Director of School and College Counseling at 4 other secondary schools. With over twelve years of experience in academic counseling, Alicia specializes in academic advising, social-emotional skills, and career counseling. Alicia holds Professional School Counseling Certifications in both Washington DC and Pennsylvania. She has created a college counseling program in its entirety and developed five programs focused on application workshops, parent information workshops, essay writing collaborative, peer-reviewed application activities, and financial aid literacy events. Alicia holds a BS in Psychology from Howard University and a Master’s in Clinical Counseling and Applied Psychology from Chestnut Hill College.
    Alicia Oglesby
    Professional School Counselor

    Push yourself to participate in class. It’s understandably hard for shy students to speak up in class, but try and find ways to boost your participation. Let your teacher know privately if you're struggling to speak up in class. You can also wait to ask questions one-on-one after class.

  5. Teachers have been through a lot of education and they have chosen a profession where they get to share their knowledge. You may know a lot about a subject as well, but teachers will appreciate if you treat them as the experts they are. [6]
    • Occasionally it’s okay to correct your teacher. After all, everyone makes mistakes sometimes.
    • Many teachers are wary of “know-it-all” students. Not only will acting like a know-it-all jeopardize your relationship with your teacher, it may also annoy your classmates. No one wants a smarty-pants as a friend.
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Part 2
Part 2 of 3:

Being Yourself

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  1. Teachers can tell when a student isn’t being themselves. For example, if you’re a science fiction geek or a competitive athlete, those are important things that help define who you are. Never try to hide those things just to look like the perfect student. [7]
    • If you’re naturally a goofball or “class clown,” you may need to control yourself some to avoid disrupting class. However, most teachers have a sense of humor and will appreciate some silliness or joking in class.
    • Don’t let your personality distract from class. For example, if you’re a social butterfly, you can wait until the bell rings to hand out the invitations to your party. You don’t need to do that during class.
  2. This may be the only proven thing that determines which students will become a teacher’s favorite. You may remind them of themselves at your age, or of someone, they are close to. You may share interests or hobbies. If your teacher senses that you have something in common, they are likely to favor you. [8]
    • Sometimes, your teacher might just feel that you have similar personalities. For example, they might be able to identify with the fact that you’re shy, or that you get easily frustrated.
    • If you know your teacher shares an interest with you, you can connect with them over that. For example, if your teacher loves art, you could bring in a review of the latest exhibition at the local art museum to share with them.
  3. This can be difficult, especially if you’re shy. However, most teachers will appreciate a student who can be honest and confide in them. If you’re struggling with school work or having trouble at home, letting your teacher know will likely endear you to them. [9]
    • If you’re having trouble outside of school (such as at home or at a job) let your teacher know. They might be able to extend deadlines for you or help you talk to a guidance counselor.
    • Be careful not to come across as whiny or complaining. Teachers can tell the difference between a student who is truly struggling and one who simply doesn’t want to do the work.
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Part 3
Part 3 of 3:

Treating Your Teacher Like a Person

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  1. Teachers like to relax and have fun on the weekends just like you. Sometimes it might seem like they only exist to make your life miserable, but remember that they probably became a teacher because they like working with young people and love helping them learn. [10]
    • Show interest in your teacher’s life. You can ask them how their weekend was, or what they have planned for summer vacation.
    • Don't talk behind a teacher's back. They will probably find out after a while. Gossiping about the teacher will get you in bigger trouble.
  2. Imagine if you came into work and everyone around you had a bad attitude. That’s what it can feel like for a teacher with a room full of grumpy students. Acting friendly and being happy to see your teacher will brighten their day and help them feel appreciated by you. [11]
    • A teacher can tell when a student is genuinely being friendly or just sucking up. Don’t go too far and start acting fake.
    • Just a simple "Good morning!" or "Good evening!" is all it takes to brighten a teacher's day.
  3. You and your teacher might disagree about the grade you deserve in a class. However, your teacher has probably given your grade a lot of consideration. If you contest the grade your teacher gave you, they’ll think you care more about your grades than about the learning process. They also may feel that you’re disrespecting their authority. [12]
    • If you’re concerned that your grades are not what you wanted them to be, talk to your teacher about how you can get better grades next time.
  4. Teaching can be difficult, and teachers get tired, just like you. If you notice that your teacher could use a hand, offer to help out. They’ll definitely notice and appreciate your helpful attitude. [13]
    • You can help your teacher by erasing the board, passing out papers, or bringing something to the office for them.
    • If you arrive to class early, you can always ask if there’s anything you can do to help them prepare for class.
    • You can also make a good impression if you tutor other students who might be struggling in the class. [14]
  5. If your teacher has not been treating you fairly, it’s okay to approach them about it. Ask them if you can speak with them during lunch or after school. Even if right now it seems that your teacher hates you, being able to have a mature conversation with them will likely turn the tide. Your teacher will see that you're invested in the relationship and in the class. [15]
    • Act calm and respectful when you speak to your teacher. You can say, “I’m not sure if you’ve noticed this, but I feel that I’m not being treated fairly in class.”
    • It’s great to be able to give specific examples so your teacher can see what you’re talking about. You can say, “When Maria made a joke and the class laughed, you laughed too. But when I made a joke and everyone laughed you sent me to the office. I don’t feel like that’s fair.”
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    How can I stand out to my teacher?
    Alicia Oglesby
    Professional School Counselor
    Alicia Oglesby is an Academic Counseling Expert based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Education at the University of Pittsburgh and working as a Graduate Research Assistant. She was previously employed as the Associate Director of College Counseling at the Winchester Thurston School. Prior to that, she worked as a Director of School and College Counseling at 4 other secondary schools. With over twelve years of experience in academic counseling, Alicia specializes in academic advising, social-emotional skills, and career counseling. Alicia holds Professional School Counseling Certifications in both Washington DC and Pennsylvania. She has created a college counseling program in its entirety and developed five programs focused on application workshops, parent information workshops, essay writing collaborative, peer-reviewed application activities, and financial aid literacy events. Alicia holds a BS in Psychology from Howard University and a Master’s in Clinical Counseling and Applied Psychology from Chestnut Hill College.
    Alicia Oglesby
    Professional School Counselor
    Expert Answer
    If you want to stand out in the classroom, be really engaged in the material. Ask questions, participate in classroom discussions, and go above and beyond in the class. If you're really struggling to understand the subject, stay after class and ask for more help. Also, be helpful if your teacher ever needs it, and be willing to tutor other students who might need help.
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    Not Helpful 10 Helpful 31
  • Question
    What are notes you could write to the teacher to show you appreciate them?
    Community Answer
    You could write your teacher a note that says something like, "Thank you so much for your help with this assignment." You could also say something like, "I've really been enjoying class. Thank you so much."
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  • Question
    How can I become my teacher's favorite student?
    Community Answer
    Help your teacher out, but not too much. Follow their rules and put your hand up only when you know the answer.
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      Tips

      • Teachers often appreciate a small gift at the end of the year. Don’t make it anything extravagant. Stick with something simple that shows that you appreciate them.
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      • Always be polite to your teacher. That is something they will always appreciate.
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      • Always be prepared for class. Have whatever materials you need and be ready to work.
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      Warnings

      • Becoming a teacher’s favorite can sometimes make other students resentful of you. Be careful not to compromise your friendships just to get into your teacher’s good graces.
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      • Never try to add your teacher as a friend on social networking sites.
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      References

      1. ↑ Alicia Oglesby. Professional School Counselor. Expert Interview. 29 October 2020.
      2. ↑ https://www.kidzworld.com/article/24558-how-to-make-your-teachers-like-you
      3. ↑ https://www.kidzworld.com/article/24558-how-to-make-your-teachers-like-you
      4. ↑ https://www.kidzworld.com/article/24558-how-to-make-your-teachers-like-you
      5. ↑ Alicia Oglesby. Professional School Counselor. Expert Interview. 29 October 2020.
      6. ↑ https://teenchange.wordpress.com/2013/01/05/the-truth-about-teachers-pets/
      7. ↑ https://teenchange.wordpress.com/2013/01/05/the-truth-about-teachers-pets/
      8. ↑ https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/01443410.2014.998629
      9. ↑ https://www.york.edu/myyc-blog/5-tips-to-become-your-teachers-favorite
      1. ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/teacher-relationships.html
      2. ↑ https://www.kidzworld.com/article/24558-how-to-make-your-teachers-like-you
      3. ↑ https://teenchange.wordpress.com/2013/01/05/the-truth-about-teachers-pets/
      4. ↑ Alicia Oglesby. Professional School Counselor. Expert Interview. 29 October 2020.
      5. ↑ Alicia Oglesby. Professional School Counselor. Expert Interview. 29 October 2020.
      6. ↑ https://www.npr.org/sections/ed/2015/02/22/387481854/if-your-teacher-likes-you-you-might-get-a-better-grade

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