How to Calculate Your Grade Step by Step

Start with the grade question

Your current grade answers one simple question: how much of the available credit have you earned so far?

If your class uses total points, the math is direct. If your class uses categories like homework, quizzes, tests, and finals, each category may count differently.

Simple grade formula

Grade % = Points earned / Points possible x 100

Example: If you earned 175 points out of 200 possible points, your grade is 87.5%.

For weighted categories, calculate each category average first, multiply by its weight, then add the weighted pieces together.

Common mistakes

• Mixing points-based grades with weighted categories.
• Forgetting that a final or major test may count more than homework.
• Using rounded grades from the gradebook instead of actual points.

FAQ