Plain-English glossary
Grade and GPA Glossary
Use this glossary when a class result depends on points, percentages, weighted exams or GPA credits.
What this glossary is for
Grade mistakes often come from mixing points, percentages and weights. GPA adds another layer because some classes count more when they have more credits.
Key terms
Points earned
The points already received on assignments, tests or coursework.
Points possible
The maximum points available. Percentage grade is points earned divided by points possible.
Weight
How much a category or exam counts toward the course result. A final worth 40% moves the course grade more than one worth 10%.
Target grade
The final grade you want to reach. A final exam calculator uses this with current grade and exam weight.
Credits
The weight of a course in GPA calculation. A 4-credit class moves GPA more than a 1-credit class.
Grade points
The numeric value assigned to a letter grade, such as 4.0 for an A in many systems.
Quality points
Grade points multiplied by credits. GPA is total quality points divided by total credits.
How to use the terms
Read the definition first, then open the calculator that uses the same term. Change one input at a time so you can see which number drives the result.
Main related calculator
The first tool below is the most directly related calculator for this glossary. The remaining links stay within the same topic so the page does not send visitors into unrelated tools.