Question: Your best friend has written to you to find out how you manage to come out tops in your class each session. Write a reply explaining at least three ways which you have devised to achieve this.
Model Answer
15 Market Road,
Lagos,
Lagos State.
10th June, 2026.
Dear Adewale,
I was delighted to receive your letter and to learn that you are doing well in your new school. I am particularly happy to know that you are interested in finding out how I consistently come top of my class every session. Success in academics is not a matter of luck; it is the result of discipline, determination and effective study habits. I will gladly share some of the methods that have helped me achieve this feat.
The first thing I do is maintain a personal study timetable. At the beginning of every term, I prepare a timetable that allocates sufficient time to each subject according to its level of difficulty. I ensure that I study every day rather than waiting until examinations are near. This habit enables me to cover all my subjects adequately and prevents unnecessary pressure during examination periods. Consistency in studying has greatly improved my understanding of various topics.
Secondly, I pay close attention during classroom lessons and take comprehensive notes. Many students rely entirely on textbooks and ignore what teachers explain in class. I make it a point to attend classes regularly, listen attentively and ask questions whenever I do not understand a topic. After school, I revise the notes I took during lessons. This practice helps me retain information and makes revision easier before examinations.
Another strategy that has contributed to my success is regular practice and revision. After learning a topic, I attempt exercises from textbooks and past examination questions. This allows me to identify areas where I need improvement and build confidence in answering examination questions. I also revise previous topics frequently to avoid forgetting what I have already learned. Continuous practice has helped me develop better problem-solving skills and examination techniques.
In addition, I avoid distractions that may interfere with my studies. Although I spend some time on entertainment and social activities, I ensure that they do not take priority over my academic goals. I also keep good company by associating with hardworking and focused classmates who encourage me to study and remain committed to my goals.
Finally, I maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating nutritious meals, exercising regularly and getting enough sleep. A healthy body contributes to a healthy mind and makes it easier to concentrate and learn effectively.
My dear friend, these are the major habits that have enabled me to remain at the top of my class. If you adopt them and remain dedicated to your studies, you too can achieve outstanding academic results. Remember that academic success requires patience, consistency, discipline and determination.
I hope my explanation will be useful to you. Please extend my regards to your family. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Yours sincerely,
Musa
Points to Note When Answering This Type of WAEC English Question
This question requires you to write an informal letter to a friend. Your answer should therefore have the appropriate features of an informal letter.
1. Use the Correct Letter Format
Include your address, date, salutation, body of the letter, complimentary close and your name.
2. Use an Appropriate Salutation
Since you are writing to your best friend, you can use a friendly salutation such as Dear Musa or Dear Adewale, depending on the name given in the question.
3. Answer the Question Directly
The question specifically asks you to explain at least three ways you have devised to achieve excellent academic performance. Make sure your letter clearly explains at least three methods.
Some suitable points include:
- Preparing and following a study timetable.
- Paying attention during classroom lessons.
- Revising lessons regularly.
- Practising past examination questions.
- Completing assignments on time.
- Avoiding unnecessary distractions.
- Associating with serious-minded students.
- Getting enough rest and maintaining good health.
4. Develop Your Points
Do not simply list three methods. Explain how each method has helped you achieve good academic performance. This makes your composition more detailed and relevant to the question.
5. Maintain a Friendly Tone
Because the recipient is your best friend, the language should be natural, friendly and conversational while still maintaining good grammar and organization.
Three Main Ways to Explain in Your Answer
If the question asks for at least three ways, you can organize your main points around the following:
- Following a study timetable: Explain how planning your study time helps you cover your subjects regularly.
- Paying attention in class: Explain how listening to teachers and asking questions helps you understand difficult topics.
- Regular revision and practice: Explain how revising your notes and practising examination questions improves your understanding and confidence.
You can then add other relevant points such as avoiding distractions, completing assignments, choosing good friends and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
How to Conclude the Letter
Your conclusion should briefly encourage your friend to adopt some of the habits you have described. You can also express your hope that the advice will be useful.
Remember to use an appropriate complimentary close such as Yours sincerely and write your name below it.
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Conclusion
When answering this type of WAEC English composition question, focus on the instructions given in the question. Explain at least three practical ways you use to achieve good academic results and develop each point clearly.
A well-organized informal letter should also contain the correct letter format, appropriate paragraphs, clear ideas, good grammar and a suitable conclusion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of letter is this question?
This is an informal letter because you are writing to your best friend.
How many ways should I explain?
The question asks for at least three ways. However, you can explain more than three relevant methods if you can develop them properly.
What should I write about in the body of the letter?
You should explain the study habits and strategies you use to achieve excellent academic performance. Examples include maintaining a study timetable, paying attention in class, revising regularly and practising past questions.
Should I write only three paragraphs?
No. You can use as many paragraphs as necessary to develop your ideas clearly. Each major point can be discussed in a separate paragraph.
Should I use formal or informal language?
Since you are writing to your best friend, use a friendly and natural style appropriate for an informal letter. However, your grammar, spelling and punctuation should still be correct.