Pick the fast Final Exam mode or use Weighted Categories to see the percent you need in one category to reach your target course grade.
Mode
Final exam mode
Your current course average before the final
Weighted categories mode
Enter each category. Choose which category you want to solve for. We assume other categories finish at the same percent they currently have.
Name
Weight %
Earned
Possible
Remaining
Summary
Needed score
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Details
What this calculator does
This calculator answers the classic “what do I need on my final?” in two ways. Final Exam mode solves for a single exam score based on your current average, the final’s weight, and your target overall grade. Weighted Categories mode handles classes that grade by buckets like Homework, Labs, Quizzes, Projects, and Exams. Pick a category to solve for and enter the points you’ve earned so far, the current possible points, and the remaining points yet to be graded. The tool shows exactly what average you need on those remaining items to reach your target overall course grade. Everything runs in your browser and exports a clean CSV if you want to save the plan in your notes or share it with a study group.
Results are estimates meant for planning. Schools differ on rounding rules, dropping the lowest, curving, extra credit, and how late penalties apply. If your syllabus has special rules, model them by adjusting the inputs (for example, put extra credit into Remaining for a category or change the final’s weight).
How to use it
Choose a mode above: Final exam or Weighted categories.
In Final exam: enter your current grade, the final’s weight, and the target overall. Choose whether your final is capped at 100%.
In Weighted categories: add each category with weight %, points earned so far, points possible so far, and points remaining in the term.
Pick a category to solve for. The calculator assumes the other categories finish at their current percentages unless you change the inputs.
Click Calculate. Use Download CSV to save the scenario or attach it to an email or ticket.
Needed score in Final exam mode comes from: target = current × (1 − w) + final × w, where w is the final’s weight as a decimal.
Category requirement in Weighted categories shows the average you must earn on the remaining points in that category to hit the overall target, assuming other categories keep their current pace.
Status messages warn when the math is impossible under a 100% cap or when you already exceed the target even with zeros.
Weights must total 100%. The tool blocks calculation until they do, which mirrors most syllabi.
Rounding: many instructors round only at the final overall. If your class rounds differently, aim a little higher than the minimum needed.
FAQ
What if my final isn’t capped at 100%?
Set “Cap final at 100%?” to “No.” The calculator will show the exact percentage required even if it’s over 100, which can happen with very heavy finals.
How should I handle extra credit or dropped scores?
Add extra credit by increasing “Remaining” in the relevant category or by adding a dedicated category with its own weight if your syllabus treats it that way. For dropped scores, reduce “Possible” to reflect the drop policy.
Why does the category result look high?
If you’re behind in a heavy category, the required average on remaining points can shoot up. Try nudging other categories higher in the inputs to see how the requirement shifts.
Can I save my plan?
Yes. Use the CSV buttons in either mode to export the summary and attach it wherever you track assignments.
Notes
Final exam mode uses: target = current × (1 − w) + final × w.
Category mode assumes non-target categories finish at their current percent. Edit inputs to model different scenarios.
Schools vary on rounding, curves, and extra credit. Use this for planning, not official records.