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How to Achieve the First Rank in Your Class & Become a Topper

Last Updated: March 25, 2024 Fact Checked

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This article was co-authored by Jennifer Kaifesh and by wikiHow staff writer, Bailey Cho . Jennifer Kaifesh is the Founder of Great Expectations College Prep, a tutoring and counseling service based in Southern California. Jennifer has over 15 years of experience managing and facilitating academic tutoring and standardized test prep as it relates to the college application process. She takes a personal approach to her tutoring, and focuses on working with students to find their specific mix of pursuits that they both enjoy and excel at. She is a graduate of Northwestern University. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 692,981 times.

Becoming the first rank of your class, or a class topper, is an incredible academic achievement, but it does require discipline, determination, and effort. Aside from scoring well on exams, class toppers choose their classes strategically and use specific techniques to stay organized and productive. Luckily, we’re here to teach you everything you need to know so you can follow their lead! By the end of this article, you’ll learn how to organize your schedule, work more efficiently, and become the top of your class.

Things You Should Know

• Participate in class discussions to fully understand the lesson and get clarity on confusing topics.
• Create a homework calendar to ensure you complete your assignments on time, and study for exams at least 3 weeks in advance.
• Study for 1-2 hours at a time, and take a short 10-minute break if you feel like you're losing focus.

• Sitting in front will also remove the temptation to pull out your phone, read something that isn’t pertinent to the class, or zone out.
• If you can't move to the front of the class, ask your classmates to let you focus and to not talk to you during class.

• For instance, you might write: "Franz Ferdinand (archduke of Austria) was assassinated on June 28, 1914."
• If your teacher hints that a specific subject might show up on an upcoming exam, put a star next to your notes so you can go back and focus on studying it.
• If you’re a visual learner, create charts, diagrams, or doodles to help you remember things.

• For example, say something like, "I agree with Andrea's point about global warming, and I think even more effort can be put into making a change."
• Try to think of questions that will spark further discussion. For instance, "How do you think Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet might have been different if he had written the play in the age of social media?"

• Most students set aside 1-3 hours for homework each day, but give yourself an extra 1-2 hours if you learn a new topic or your teacher assigns more work than usual.
• To manage your time wisely, use different colored gel pens to prioritize your tasks and keep track of your due dates.

• If possible, read during study periods, breaks in between classes, or lunch time so you can work on other assignments after school.
• If you don’t have enough time to get through your readings, read summaries of your assigned chapters for free on CliffsNotes on SparkNotes , or watch a quick analysis video on YouTube.

• Take a 10-minute break if you really can’t concentrate on your assignments, or watch a YouTube video to learn more information passively.

• If you plan to be absent on a day when a homework assignment is due, hand it in early to avoid losing marks.

• Avoid cramming for your exam the night before, which increases your stress levels and doesn’t give you enough time to fully absorb the information.
• If you want to study in a group, be sure to invite people who actually want to study and succeed. If not, the other students will just distract you and waste your time.

• If you have a textbook for class, answer the practice questions at the end of each chapter.
• Act like you’re a teacher and explain a concept or lesson like you are teaching it to a class.
• Ask yourself the 5 W’s (Who? What? When? Where? Why?) to break down abstract concepts into simpler ones.
• Memorize formulas or equations with mnemonics (i.e. for coordinating conjunctions, use FANBOYS = for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). [9] X Research source
• Solve practice problems, then explain your thought process and how it worked (bonus tip: find out if there are other ways to solve the question and get the same answer).
• Make a Venn diagram to compare and contrast the big ideas for each topic.
• Create flowcharts, tables, graphs, timelines, mind-maps, and/or study guides for each subject.

• Obtain practice exams from online resources like Course Hero or Chegg , or ask your teacher for a copy of a previous year’s exam.
• Tip: Some teachers reuse questions from the same test bank each year, which you can often find on Quizlet . To access potential exam questions, type in a question from one of your homework assignments on Google, then see if any Quizlet flashcards pop up in the results. If nothing shows up, search your course name or the last name of your teacher, followed by the word “Quizlet.”

• If you have to use your computer to study, download third-party extensions that block distracting websites like StayFocusd and BlockSite .
• Wear noise-canceling headphones to remove any distracting noises in your environment.
• If there are too many distractions at home, go to your local library or community college to study in peace, and try to find a spot where you can’t see people moving around.

• Use your break time to eat a healthy snack, watch a short YouTube video, listen to a few songs, take a quick walk outside, play with your pet, or check in with your friends.

• The cost of tutoring centers like Kumon and Sylvan vary by location, but they typically range between $100-200 per month. [13] X Research source
• Alternatively, attend office hours after class, or use free resources like Khan Academy or YouTube videos to learn challenging concepts.

• If you miss class because you’re sick, try to let a classmate know so they can inform the teacher, and ask them if you can borrow their notes. When you return to school, ask your teachers about any missed assignments and be sure to complete them on time.

• When speaking to others, make sure you use polite words like “please” and “thank you,” and do not raise your voice at other students if you feel frustrated.
• Avoid passing notes, talking to your friends, making unnecessary jokes or comments, and moving around too much during lessons (or anytime your teacher seems serious).

• If you find it hard not to look at your phone, ask your friend (or your teacher) if they can hold it for you until the end of class.

• When it’s exam season, consider setting up a study group so you can test each other on the material and work through the study guide more efficiently.
• To avoid trouble in class, distance yourself from distracting students. If you have assigned seating, ask your teacher if you can move seats so you can focus better.

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• If you want to become a class topper, familiarize yourself with your school’s policies on class ranking. Most high schools determine class rank by GPA, with higher-level courses (AP, Honors) weighted more than regular courses. In other words, if you scored a B in an AP class, it would be the equivalent of an A in a regular class. [14] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• If your school weights AP courses more than regular courses, aim to take 3-4 AP courses per school year. Receiving a poor grade in an AP class may lower your GPA (and overall class ranking), so it’s important not to overload yourself with difficult coursework. [15] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• If you received a low grade in a course, ask your counselor if it’s possible to retake the class in an upcoming semester (or summer school) so you can replace that grade with a better one. [16] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• ↑ https://sites.psu.edu/siowfa15/2015/10/19/finding-the-perfect-seat-in-class/
• ↑ Jennifer Kaifesh. Founder, Great Expectations College Prep. Expert Interview. 8 November 2019.
• ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/homework.html
• ↑ https://www.stonybrook.edu/commcms/advising/_students/students_support_tips.php#CharacteristicsofaSuccessfulStudent
• ↑ https://academicaffairs.arizona.edu/l2l-strategy-interleaving
• ↑ https://sls.navitas-professional.edu.au/sites/default/files/resource/exam_preparation_v1.pdf
• ↑ https://www.seattleu.edu/media/learning-assistance-programs/files/9-Types-of-Mnemonics-for-Better-Memorya4b4.pdf
• ↑ https://www.bsmcon.edu/sites/default/files/assets/files/Tips%20for%20Reducing%20Distractions%20at%20Home.pdf
• ↑ https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/local/2002/11/29/seeking-tutors-to-get-ahead-and-not-just-to-catch-up/22795568-01b7-44bf-ab3e-042792a90205/
• ↑ https://tutors.com/costs/kumon-cost
• ↑ https://blog.collegevine.com/ap-class-grading-scale
• ↑ https://www.crimsoneducation.org/us/blog/how-many-ap-classes-should-i-take/
• ↑ https://collegemapper.com/2014/05/improve-high-school-gpa/

About This Article

To achieve the first rank in your class, strive to pay attention and participate in class discussions every day. Next, keep your assignments organized, complete your homework for each class, and turn in your assignments on time to keep your grades high. It's also important to study for your exams thoroughly so you can achieve good scores. You may want to ask your teachers what scores you will have to beat, since class-ranking systems can vary from school to school. For tips on studying efficiently, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Prioritize Like a Pro: Steps to Creating an Effective Prioritization Matrix

Have you ever wondered why many digital agencies can create and finish successful projects on time?

Despite taking on multiple projects simultaneously, they can still produce quality results that satisfy their clients.

Makes one wonder what they are doing to manage multiple tasks .

In reality, it is no secret!

It is really simple— those digital agencies know how to prioritize.

But what do we really mean by "prioritizing"?

We know that all tasks associated with a project are important, but how do we determine which to prioritize? After all, prioritizing the wrong task and doing it before others may jeopardize the timeline and delay the project's completion.

And we so don't want that to happen!

What should we do?

When prioritizing tasks and assignments, project managers and teams use a prioritization matrix. Also called a priority matrix , the prioritization matrix is a management tool that orders tasks and projects based on specific criteria managers define. The priority matrix gives managers and teams a visual to identify which tasks or projects they should work on next.

A prioritization matrix is a very helpful tool for both managers and teams alike. If you are not yet using a priority matrix, here are some reasons why you should consider it:

• A matrix tells you which projects to prioritize . As we handle multiple projects simultaneously, we start to realize that not all projects are the same. Different projects require different deliverables and need to be completed at different times. So, to prevent us from wasting our limited resources and time, we need to prioritize.
• It helps us manage our time better . Many teams use to-do lists and other task management tools to manage time. However, when we have a load of tasks to work on, we often end up procrastinating, and our productivity is affected. To help us with time management, a priority matrix is an alternative tool we can use. By using a one, we can determine which tasks are critical and urgent and which have low urgency and importance.
• It promotes collaboration and teamwork . Handling multiple projects simultaneously means each project will compete for the agency's attention and funding. Choosing the incorrect project to pour resources and time into first may lead to jeopardizing others' timelines and may cause disagreements among teams. To prevent this from happening, we need an objective, logical process to identify which projects to put first. After all, we get our resources from different departments with different priorities. By using a prioritization matrix, we will have a reliable process for conflict resolution, providing our stakeholders with peace of mind.

Prioritization matrices are a proven method of organizing projects along with the tasks and deliverables they bring. We even use it for our projects and tasks!

How about you ? Do you want to keep your tasks organized? Start by creating a priority matrix for your agency's projects and identify which to focus on!

If you are not yet aware of how to create and use a priority matrix, we're here to teach you the basics of prioritization matrices— from the necessary steps in creating one to how you can use these matrices effectively to tips on how you can create an effective matrix for your agency. Continue reading to discover more!

Steps to Create a Prioritization Matrix Template

Successful project management is not based on gut feeling. Instead, making decisions regarding projects must be based on fact-based criteria and data gathered from various sources. This also happens when we use a prioritization matrix for the agency. Because of this, it is imperative that we apply a logical process to create our own matrix, right? After all, the priority matrix will provide us with a clear idea of what our projects are, as well as the necessary deliverables and the urgency of each project.

Follow these simple steps in creating a project prioritization matrix and impress clients with the success of the completed projects.

Determine criteria to assess priority.

Creating a prioritization matrix starts with the project objectives. Our projects and deliverables intend to provide solutions to the client's existing problems.

In creating a prioritization matrix, we recommend limiting the criteria to three to five items.

Will it make a difference? It certainly will!

Having criteria ensures that the matrix is easy to use and provides clarity about the projects.

Most prioritization matrices use the following criteria in their template:

• Importance . The importance criteria of the priority matrix refer to the importance of the project or task. For example, complex and time-sensitive projects are more important than small-scale, simple ones.
• Urgency . This criterion refers to the time-sensitivity of each project or task. We can consider urgent projects with shorter deadlines than those with longer ones.
• Required effort . The amount of effort to be put into the task or project is also essential in the prioritization matrix. We can prioritize those projects requiring high effort, such as complex projects requiring thorough research.
• Impact . Also considered as the value of the project, the impact is the prioritization criteria that measures how much a project or task can affect our agency. High-value projects are those that can provide us with the most benefits and positive impact.

Determining the criteria for our prioritization matrix can be done through brainstorming with teams . After all, we need collaboration and team effort to make successful projects.

List all your tasks/projects that need prioritizing.

After we've determined your criteria for the prioritization matrix, we should list all the tasks and projects that need to be prioritized.

In this step, we can also ask for help from team members as well as stakeholders to create the agency's list of projects and tasks needing priority. We can look at one another's to-do lists to identify these projects and tasks and find the common ones. Doing this can make ordering and classifying tasks and projects much easier.

Create a table with your criteria as columns and tasks as rows.

Now that we've determined the selection criteria as well as the projects and tasks needing prioritization, it's time for us to create the actual matrix! There are many variations of priority matrices, from simple priority matrices to complex ones, such as the Six Sigma prioritization matrix. The type of matrix we create depends on our needs and objectives .

The selection criteria are positioned as the columns for your prioritization matrix. The number of columns depends on the number of criteria that the team has determined. For example, the matrix will have four columns if we have four selection criteria (importance, urgency, impact, and difficulty/required effort).

On the other hand, the projects and tasks listed will become the rows for the matrix. Again, the number of rows depends on the projects and tasks listed.

Score each task on each criterion.

The next step in your prioritization matrix is scoring each project or task based on the criteria. Each criterion in the matrix should have a corresponding weight or numerical value and will be the basis for comparison or ranking. The numbers on each criterion will indicate the level of importance of each criterion.

When scoring each project and task, it is recommended that we stay objective. We should score each project and task on how well it meets each criterion. Most matrices use a 1 to 5 scale or a 1 to 10 scale, with one being the lowest and 5 or 10 being the highest. However, you can still use a different scale if you prefer, just make sure that you are consistent with the one used.

Add up scores to get a priority ranking for each task.

After rating each project and task, we can now add each score to determine its priority ranking. Calculating the weighted score for each task will depend on the type of prioritization matrix used.

How do we do that?

Well, we can calculate the weighted score of each task using the following tips:

• Multiply the score of each project or task with the criteria weight to calculate the weighted score. Then, add up the weighted scores to get the cumulative score. The higher the cumulative value, the higher the priority.
• Compute for the relative decimal value. To arrive at this value, we should first get the raw total by adding the decimal values of each row. Then, add up the raw totals to get the grand total. Divide each row's total by the grand total to arrive at the relative decimal value. The higher the decimal value, the higher its priority.

After we've determined the scores of each project or task, we should compare the values against one another to assess its hierarchy in the priority list. Usually, the higher the score, the more essential and urgent the task. However, if we think the results are incorrect, we can reevaluate the criteria and the weights then recalculate the values.

Tips for an Effective Matrix

A priority matrix may be easy to create but can be complicated. One wrong move in determining the criteria or project and assigning values may lead our projects down the drain!

That is why we can ensure that our matrix is effective and helpful by following these simple tips below:

Keep It Simple!

Many project teams avoid using the prioritization matrix as they find the process difficult. Sure, doing a little math can be pretty confusing, but we can avoid confusion if we keep the matrix simple.

Doesn't that sound great?

We always recommend keeping the matrix simple for project teams that are total newbies to the prioritization matrix. We can simplify the priority matrix by using a small number of criteria, preferably three to five at most.

How can we determine which criteria to use? It's simple – we must look at our agency's development goals and objectives . After all, the projects we prioritize will impact our performance and success as an agency.

In essence, project teams created the prioritization matrix to determine which projects to prioritize to maximize productivity and reap the most benefits for the agency. If we are rating projects and tasks based on our biases (and sometimes even hidden agendas), then what is the need for the matrix in the first place?

By being honest in assigning scores to each project and task, we can have more accurate values on our prioritization matrix. And a more accurate prioritization matrix means more chances of project success.

Update as Needed!

Update project management tools and software periodically as the teams' needs change. This is also the case when creating a prioritization matrix.

To ensure we can create an accurate prioritization matrix, we should update our criteria and their corresponding weights as our priorities shift. However, we should still remember that while our priorities may shift with each project, our goals and objectives as an agency will not. So, when we reevaluate our prioritization matrix, we should always align it with our goals and objectives and determine which we should prioritize for now.

The prioritization matrix can help us determine which projects and tasks should come first above all others. We have the weights to identify which of these have the highest priority, but how can other members of the team who weren't involved with its creation know which to prioritize?

It's simple— visualize!

We can use color coding to visualize the priority levels of each project and task. Here's an example:

• Red for high urgency, high importance projects
• Orange for high urgency, low importance projects
• Yellow for low urgency, high importance projects
• Green for low urgency, low importance projects.

Color coding allows us to easily look at the matrix and determine which is which without taking too much time.

How Do You Use a Prioritization Matrix?

Creating a prioritization matrix is one thing, but using it effectively is another matter. As a project manager, how can we use the matrix effectively?

Here are some ways we can use the project prioritization matrix in handling multiple projects simultaneously.

Let the matrix guide what you work on first.

The purpose of the prioritization matrix is to determine which projects and tasks should be put first. It is our guiding star when taking on multiple projects simultaneously.

Taking full advantage of the priority matrix means we look at the results calculated and focus on the projects and tasks with the highest priority based on our criteria.

Schedule/batch tasks by priority level.

Now that we know the priority level of each project and task, we can start working on them depending on their priority level.

Based on these levels, we can execute tasks in batches to better manage our time. For example, we can perform high-urgency and high-importance tasks first until we can accomplish them by a certain percentage. Then, we can work on the next priority level until we can deliver the necessary results.

By working in batches by priority levels, we can avoid procrastinating and accomplish tasks to meet deadlines. This way, we can work smoothly and according to the project management plan .

Delegate or eliminate low-priority tasks.

High-priority projects and tasks are those that can have the most impact and value to the agency. These often include complex and large-scale projects that require experts from the team.

Projects with the highest priority levels often require to be worked on by the best of the team. We can have them focus solely on these projects and follow up from time to time.

But how about low-priority projects? How can we ensure these are still worked on with excellence? We can have these tasks and projects delegated to other team members. However, we still need to consider their skills to ensure we can minimize mistakes and delays in the project. Just don't forget to follow up on your team's progress occasionally!

Review and update your matrix regularly.

Just like other project management tools, prioritization matrices are not one-offs. They need to be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure accuracy and alignment with our goals and objectives.

Reviewing and updating the matrix regularly gives us an insight into how our priorities change as our projects change. This way, we can determine the appropriate priority level for each project and task without compromising the client's objectives or our own.

Key Takeaways

So, what have we learned today? Here are some key takeaways regarding the prioritization matrix.

• A prioritization matrix can provide us with a number of benefits, namely, 1) determining which projects to focus on, 2) helping in time management, 3) promoting collaboration and teamwork, and 4) aiding in conflict resolution.
• Creating a prioritization matrix will require us to perform several steps: 1) identifying assessment criteria for testing each project or task; 2) determining and listing down the projects and tasks that need prioritizing; 3) assigning scores for each project or task against each criterion; and 4) adding the scores of each task and comparing them to determine priority levels.

Many agencies use a prioritization matrix to manage their projects better and avoid procrastination. Are you having problems with meeting deadlines and executing projects? Maybe a prioritization matrix is what your agency needs!

In a Nutshell...

Here are some reminders when you want to create a prioritization matrix for your agency.

• A prioritization matrix is a simple yet powerful tool that organizations and digital agencies can use to manage their projects better. It provides teams with a clear idea of each project's needs and objectives and the necessary deliverables for each project.
• Creating a prioritization matrix is simple and will need the project team's collaboration. Although it will need effort when you create it, it will save you time in the long run.
• A prioritization matrix is an effective tool to help your agency work smarter, not harder. You can create better workflows and more independent teams by using this powerful tool.

Ready to take on projects that will help you scale up your agency? Contact us today and discover the full potential of your agency !

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first ranking security assignment

Comments on the question.

"Uma primeira atribuição de garantia sobre qualquer empréstimo entre empresas feito pelo Pai ao Mutuário Original, ou pelo Mutuário Original ou qualquer outra obrigação para com qualquer membro do grupo do Mutuário Original"?

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Andy, debt is ranked. First ranking, second ranking etc.

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I believe you!

How to Use On-Page SEO Techniques to Rank on the First Page of Google

On-Page optimization and Off-page optimization are two major factors that affect the optimization of a website.

On-Page SEO is a technique for search engine optimization which helps bots from Google and other search engines to navigate through your website and understand what it is about.

The optimization of some of your website features such as internal links, Meta title, Heading tags, and description can help you rank higher on search engines.

On the other hand, off-page optimization has to do with optimizing other signals that are not within your website.

For this article, we will be considering the best on-page SEO techniques that you can implement to help your website rank well in search engines.

If you’re looking for the best on-page SEO technique, then you are looking at your Meta Title. If your title is well optimized and attractive, this will lead to more clicks for you. And your post will rank higher the more clicks you get.

The start of your title (H1) tag should include the targeted keyword phrase. But if you can’t do that, you should just make sure you add the keyword in the title.

One mistake that people make with this is adding the keyword in the title more than once. They often think this will help them rank better but that is not true. More often than not, it hurts your ranking. So, you should avoid making this mistake.

You should also keep your title length short. It should be around 65 characters.

Use Your Heading Tags Properly

Your articles should include heading tags that you can use to highlight important points, sub-headings, and various headings.

If your website is a WordPress website, the title tag is usually at H1. So, your articles should not include any H1 tags anywhere in them again. Just that once is enough. You should use H2 tags and H3 tags for your section breaks.

Add a Table of Contents to Your Article

More and more, content writers are writing lengthy, in-depth articles. And many blog posts these days are quite long. Some of these posts are thousands of words, which is a lot to get through.

For articles as long as this, it is important to include a table of contents. This will help the readers navigate your lengthy article with ease. Also, and just as important, it helps you rank better in Google search.

Watch Your Keyword Density

The density of keywords in your articles should be close to 1.5 percent and should be mixed with LSI (latent semantic indexing) keywords. The LSI keywords help google understand what your page is about. These are words that have close relations with the keyword you are using.

Words that are semantically related will have the same meaning and effect in the article. So, you can make use of synonyms to reduce keyword density.

The main keyword should appear just once in the article’s first and last paragraph. You should also try to make use of the keywords only in places where it makes sense.

You can, as well, search for other posts that have the same keywords that you are targeting and see how the keywords are used and how many times they appear. This will give you an idea of how you can use them in your articles.

For every long post that you write, you should include a unique meta description that is also relevant to the post. Your meta description should also include your targeted keyword.

Many people advocate that meta description is not as important because it is not used as a factor for ranking . But both assertions are untrue. Meta descriptions are important to your blog post and are a useful factor for ranking as well. There is a massive connection between Google rankings and optimized meta descriptions.

What search engines do is pick up the keywords. But it is also important that Google users click on your post. So, you need meta descriptions that are related to the article and are also very friendly.

Google has cleared the air about meta keywords and has claimed that it does not care about them. But Bing and some other search engines might still care about meta keywords.

Search engines pick up on the keywords. But it is also important that google users click on your post. So, you need meta descriptions that are related to the article and are also very friendly.

Use Images with Meaningful Title and Alt Text

The use of images in your content is a good way to drive traffic to your website through image searches. So, optimizing your image for your post is important.

For example, using keywords in your alt text and image title will ensure that your blog post is targeted and better focused. When people search for images related to this keyword, your website will rank for this as well.

So make sure that your images have meaningful names before you upload them. After you have added the image to your article or WordPress website, you should also add an alt text.

Images also keep the user engaged. This will, in turn, make them stay on your website longer and increase your website’s ranking.

However, you should also know that large images reduce your website's speed and your rank on Google will be negatively affected. To avoid this, you should:

• Use a CDN: a content delivery network is a network of servers positioned in strategic locations around the globe. It is very effective for increasing website speed.
• Use a caching plugin: this helps to reduce load time and increases your website's speed. It converts your webpages into static pages for first-time users. So, when the same user requests a page the second time, it loads the page from this cache. This reduces the load on your server and makes it work faster.
• Compress your images before uploading: heavy images take longer to load. So, reducing image size is important for your website's load time.

Check Your Word Count

According to content writers at assignment help , blog posts, or articles that are not very long or do not have plenty of words rank poorly on search engines. This is because they seem to lack enough information to make them valuable.

Generally, blogs that are based on information have a standard word count of at least 1300 words. It is also important that your content contains a lot of information that is well-researched, especially if your keywords are highly competitive.

Internal Linking

Adding internal links to your blog posts will ensure that your audience stays on your blog for an extended time. This is because they will keep reading articles on your blog that have been linked together. It will also help other pages of your website rank better, as it provides traffic to those pages.

When you are adding links to your other pages , you can use keywords as the anchor text. But don't overdo it. Adding internal links to other pages with relevant information shows that you are giving extra information, and the search engines rank you better.

External Linking

Adding links to external websites with relevant information also helps your ranking. But make sure that the websites that you are linking to are authoritative in your niche or industry and are trustworthy. This will increase your website's credibility.

Of course, if you have any reason to doubt the integrity of the website, you should not link to them to avoid ruining your credibility.

If you want your site to rank on the first page of Google searches, you should implement these on-page SEO techniques. All of these techniques work together to help you rank better.

I hope this article was useful for you. Happy coding!

James Murphy is a writer and blogger. He has acquired a deep knowledge of the tech and marketing sectors. When he’s not at work, he spends time with wife and his two lovely toddlers :)

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2024 March Madness: Power ranking Sweet 16 teams in the 2024 NCAA Tournament based on odds

How sweet it is. The start of the Sweet 16 round has arrived. The bracket of the 64 Division I college basketball teams competing in the Men's NCAA tournament has narrowed after the first week of March Madness . And we are ever closer to the Final Four.

There hasn't been much movement at the top of the March Madness tournament since the initial odds were announced following the tournament's bracket reveal. All the four No. 1 seeds and the four No. 2 seeds remain in the tournament. The UConn Huskies are still the top contender and the clear favorite to win a back-to-back National Championship title.

Here are the latest power rankings for the 16 remaining teams in the tournament based on the current odds of them winning the trophy on April 8, as per BetMGM .

NCAA Tournament 2024: Sweet 16 odds, betting lines, spreads for every men's game

March Madness Sweet 16 power rankings: Top Five teams

1. uconn (+200).

The Huskies were the top seed in the tournament, and in the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament they have proven why they could win it all. The Huskies dominated No. 16 Stetson in the first round, routing the Hatters 91-52 before defeating No. 9 Northwestern 75-58 in the second round. No. 1-seed UConn will now face No. 5-seed San Diego State in the Sweet 16, a rematch of the 2023 championship title game on Thursday night.

FOLLOW THE MADNESS: NCAA basketball bracket, scores, schedules, teams and more.

2. Houston (+500)

Houston narrowly avoided an early March Madness exit in the second round but pulled off a 100-95 overtime win over Texas A&M. Nevertheless, the Cougars have been dominant in their first season in the Big 12 and have given excellent defensive performances throughout the season, which provided them with a great chance for a deeper tournament run. Houston has advanced to the Sweet 16 and will play against No. 4-seed Duke on Friday.

3. Purdue (+650)

This Purdue basketball team is having a much different March Madness run compared to their first-round loss in the 2023 NCAA Tournament. This year, the Boilermakers have won their first and second-round games by over 25 points each.

In the first round, Purdue defeated No. 16 Grambling State 78-50. The Boilermakers continued the momentum and dominated No. 8 Utah State 106-67 in the second round. The Boilermakers are now set to face off against the No. 5 Gonzaga Bulldogs in the Sweet 16 on Friday.

4. Arizona (+800)

Arizona is currently the most favored No. 2 seed team in the tournament and has better odds to win the championship than the No. 1 seed in the West Region. The Wildcats defeated No. 15 Long Beach State 85-65 in the first round and No. 7 Dayton 78-68 in the tournament's second round. Arizona will play against No. 6-seed Clemson in the Sweet 16 on Thursday.

5. North Carolina (+1000)

The North Carolina Tar Heels have made it to the Sweet 16 after winning the second round of the NCAA Tournament against the Michigan State Spartans 85-69. Prior to that, the Tar Heels had an easy 90-62 victory over Wagner in their first game of the tournament. North Carolina plays No. 4-seed Alabama in the Sweet 16 on Thursday.

The rest of March Madness Sweet 16 power rankings

6. tennessee (+1200), 7. iowa state (+1400), 8. marquette (+1600), 9. creighton (+2500), 10. duke (+2500), 11. gonzaga (+2500), 12. illinois (+2800), 13. alabama (+4000), 14. san diego state (+6600), 15. clemson (+8000), 16. nc state (+10000), how to watch ncaa men's basketball march madness 2024.

All games will be broadcast across CBS, TBS, TNT and TruTV. Here are additional streaming options to watch all the action on your devices.

• Stream through Paramount+
• Stream through HULU with Live TV
• NCAA March Madness Live app
• Stream through DirecTV Stream

How to watch March Madness: Watch all tournament games with a subscription to fuboTV

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Ranking the top 32 prospects for the 2024 NHL draft

The NHL regular season is nearly done, meaning many teams and their fan bases have started to follow the top prospects in the 2024 draft class more carefully. The San Jose Sharks , Chicago Blackhawks , Anaheim Ducks and Columbus Blue Jackets are at the bottom of the league standings, and their fans have been getting excited about Macklin Celebrini for months.

But there is more than Macklin Celebrini in this draft class, and while it might not have the depth of previous years, there is plenty of talent available -- and quite a few players expected to have impactful NHL careers.

One area where this draft stands out behind Celebrini is on defense. According to my model, which is explained below, this is the deepest draft on defense since 2012. That draft produced Morgan Rielly , Hampus Lindholm , Matt Dumba and Jacob Trouba in the top 10, and middle-round gems like Jaccob Slavin , Adam Pelech , Colton Parayko and Shayne Gostisbehere .

A draft does not need to have a collection of superstars to be a deep draft. While the 2024 class may lack potential firepower like the 2015 group featuring Connor McDavid and Jack Eichel , there are plenty of potential impact players on the back end to be excited about.

Ranking the 5 best NHL first-round playoff matchups that are still in play

We’re just a few weeks away from the playoffs , and I have some good news: There are some good first-round matchups still in play. Like, really good. So good that part of me doesn’t even want to talk about them, because there’s still time for the hockey gods to yank them away from us. But let’s tempt fate by breaking down five tantalizing possibilities.

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Of course, we have to define what it means for a matchup to be “still in play.” That gets tricky, and can lead to some wishful thinking. I’m going to use the odds from Sports Club Stats , and limit us to matchups that have at least a 30 percent chance of happening heading into Thursday night’s games. That means no longshot rivalries like Rangers vs. Islanders (3 percent) or Oilers vs. Canucks (1 percent), although if one of those miracle matchups does end up happening, I want credit for manifesting it.

No, we’re staying in the quasi-real world, insisting on pairings with 30 percent or better, with the added bonus of not re-using any team more than once so that I can’t go full homer and just pick all the different potential Maple Leafs matchups. Spoiler alert: That still sets the table for some really good matchups. Let’s count them down…

5. Predators vs. Canucks

Odds of happening: 38 percent, making it the most likely matchup for both teams.

Potential storylines: This feels like a weird pick, I know. There’s no real history here, or bad blood to speak of. But dig a little deeper, and you could make the case that these teams represent the two most intriguing season-long stories in the league.

Start with Vancouver, the juggernaut nobody saw coming . They’ve defied the percentages, made all the doubters look silly, and might still finish first overall. They’re also an incredibly fun collection of talent. I called them the most fascinating team in the league a few months ago, and they’ve lived up to the title. But the Predators are making their own claim, having somehow used a canceled concert to transform into an unbeatable force.

And here’s the thing: As I said on this week’s pod , everyone will think hard about picking Nashville in this matchup. We’ll have to, because hockey bylaws say you need to pick at least one wild-card underdog, and the Predators beating the Canucks feels more plausible than something like the Capitals beating the Rangers, if only because we overrate late-season momentum . When those picks come out and 75 percent of us have taken the Predators in an upset, Vancouver fans are going to flip out at the “nobody believes in us” disrespect. And they won’t be completely wrong!

Rivalry factor: Not much to speak of. They’ve only met once in the playoffs, in 2011, when the Canucks beat the Predators in six games on their way to an agonizing Stanley Cup near-miss. For what it’s worth, they’ve met three times this season and Vancouver has won all three in regulation. But those were all in the Predators’ pre-U2 era, so do they even count?

Bottom line: Oh, and it’s also a Canadian team against a southern market, a battle of excellent goalies, a possible generational Norris Trophy torch-passing series between Roman Josi and Quinn Hughes , and it features Swedish stars on both sides. This would be so much fun, even without the fan-base fury. Which, again, will be off the charts.

Random clip to get you fired up: Here’s Elias Pettersson scoring a hat trick back in October to ruin Ryan O’Reilly ’s 1,000th game.

4. Maple Leafs vs. Bruins

Odds of happening: 58 percent. Remember, we’ve got two paths to get here, since even if the Lightning catch the Leafs for third place in the division, we could still get this matchup if Boston also passes the Panthers .

Potential storylines: Just the Maple Leafs, the chronically underachieving playoff team everyone loves to hate, facing an Original Six rival that always seems to have their number, and who everyone also loves to hate. The Bruins beat this Leafs core in both 2018 and 2019, but are also coming off one of the most disappointing playoff flameouts ever, meaning both teams would feel like they pretty much had to win.

Mix in a ton of star power, including a 60-goal scorer on each side, the Tyler Bertuzzi revenge and/or betrayal storyline, Playoff Sheldon Keefe facing the reigning Jack Adams winner, Jack Edwards fighting Joe Bowen in a parking lot somewhere, and a grand total of (checks rosters) two excellent NHL goalies in the series, and you’ve got all the ingredients for something memorable.

Rivalry factor: Very high. They have the two recent series, plus the 2013 debacle. If you want to go back even further, they’ve found reasons to hate each other for decades . There’s bad blood pretty much every year, including this one. (Remember when Brad Marchand sent the Leafs into their latest round of existential soul-searching a few months ago?)

Bottom line: In case you’re wondering, as a Maple Leafs fan, I am absolutely terrified of this matchup and it makes my tummy hurt. That makes you want it more, right? Of course it does.

Random clip to get you fired up: No, I won’t be using a clip of That Game , thanks for asking. Instead, let’s go with the comparatively milder Game 7 collapse, with Toronto giving up four consecutive goals to blow a third-period leading in 2018.

3. Oilers vs. Kings

Odds of happening: 78 percent, making it the most likely matchup in the league right now by a solid margin.

Potential storylines: It would be the third straight year that the two teams met in the first round, with the Oilers winning in 2022 and 2023. Both of those series were closer than expected, though, and those were younger Kings teams that could have just been happy to be there. Meanwhile, the Oilers are under intense pressure to finally put together a Cup run.

Rivalry factor: Very high, given all the recent history as well as plenty of old-school Smythe Division bad blood from back in the day.

Bottom line: The NHL’s main justification for a generally unpopular playoff format is that it builds divisional rivalries. I’m not sure that’s really true in a league with eight teams per division (as opposed to the old days of just five), but having the same two teams meet three years in a row is the sort of thing this format is supposed to produce.

Now, the question would be whether the Kings are just going to play the role of the early 2000s Senators to the Oilers’ version of the Pat Quinn Maple Leafs, or whether this can become a real rivalry. This is the best Oilers team of the Connor McDavid era by far, and a loss here would be an unequivocal disaster. Meanwhile, the Kings have had an up-and-down season and haven’t won a round since their last Cup in 2014. Another first-round exit would cast real doubt on where the rebuild is headed, meaning the stakes are about as high as they get for both teams. Sign me up.

(Just, uh, no dumb replay review controversies this time, please.)

Random clip to get you fired up: Here’s Zach Hyman ’s OT winner from last year’s Game 4, which ended up being the clear turning point of the series.

2. Lightning vs. Panthers

Odds of happening: 44 percent, with the same two-path scenario as Leafs/Bruins.

Potential storylines: It would be the third time in four years that the two teams met in the playoffs. The last two times it happened, the Lightning were defending champs, and they won both series with relative ease. But this time, it would be the Panthers going in as heavy favorites, looking to finally kick sand in their bully’s face and get out from under their big brother’s ever-present shadow.

That is unless the Lightning aren’t quite done yet after all . They lost in the first round last year, ending a streak of three straight Eastern Conference finals wins, and it feels like the torch is being passed to teams like Florida. But the old core is still here, and with Steven Stamkos on the last year of his deal, this could be their last hurrah.

The Panthers have never been able to handle them before, so is this the year it finally happens? And who do you root for, the team that’s owned the conference for years now or the new era of easy-to-hate villains ?

Rivalry factor: It’s been good for a few years now, after being disappointingly quiet for the first few decades of these two franchises existing. And remember, the Panthers put a 9-2 beating on the Lightning this season.

Bottom line: The rivalry was already good, but the weight of the storylines and the stakes this year could elevate it to great. So could the presence of Matthew Tkachuk , who wasn’t around for the first two chapters but who should spice things up significantly.

Random clip to get you fired up: Here’s unlikely hero (and constant thorn in the Lightning’s side) Ryan Lomberg ending the only playoff overtime game between the two teams in 2021.

1. Either the Avalanche or Stars vs. Golden Knights

Odds of happening: 36 percent in total, split fairly evenly between Colorado and Dallas. Yes, I’m cheating here by combining two teams. Look, it’s the Golden Knights, the rules don’t apply, am I right ?

Potential storylines: The Knights have assumed the title of the league’s most interesting team down the stretch, ever since a trade deadline for the ages that saw them not just push all their chips into the middle of the table, but also toss in their gold watch and their car keys. And yet they’re still not even guaranteed a playoff spot, partly due to the absence of Mark Stone and Tomas Hertl , two game-breakers who should be back by playoff time… if they can even make it there. Oh, did we mention that they’re also the defending Stanley Cup champs, not to mention the too-much-too-soon franchise that every other fan base is already sick of?

Meanwhile, the Stars and Avalanche have been battling the Jets for the Central Division title all year. It now feels like a two-team race, but you wonder if it’s one worth winning if the reward is facing a healthy Vegas in the first round. A Golden Knights series against the Stars or Avalanche would be the heavyweight tilt of the first round, the kind of series in which both teams are legitimate Cup favorites and you wonder if the winner will have anything left. I would like seven games of that, please.

Rivalry factor: Vegas has beaten Colorado in the playoffs in their only meeting, in 2021. They’ve faced Dallas twice, both in the conference finals, winning last year but losing in 2020.

Bottom line: The other possibility for Vegas is a meeting with Vancouver, which would also be an excellent matchup. Really, there are no bad options for Vegas. But having the last two Cup champs meet in the first round, or a rematch of last year’s hard-fought conference finals, would be fantastic.

Random clip to get you fired up: Let’s end with what the playoffs are all about, as we watch last year’s Golden Knights claim the Cup.

You’re mad now, right? Good, lean into that. And then think about how great it will be when the path to a repeat starts with going through one of the best teams in the entire league.

(Photo of Vegas’ Nicolas Roy and Colorado’s Mikko Rantanen : Michael Martin / NHLI via Getty Images)

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Sean McIndoe has been a senior NHL writer with The Athletic since 2018. He launched Down Goes Brown in 2008 and has been writing about hockey ever since, with stops including Grantland, Sportsnet and Vice Sports. His book, "The Down Goes Brown History of the NHL," is available in book stores now. Follow Sean on Twitter @ DownGoesBrown

Facts and Information About the United States Army

The First Sergeant (1SG) – The Example of Good NCO Leadership

First Sergeant

The rank of “First Sergeant” (abbreviated as 1SG), a United States Army senior noncommissioned officer rank, came into existence in 1781. During this time, the title referred to the senior sergeant of a company but it wasn’t exactly a separate rank . It was combined with the separate rank known as “orderly sergeant” in 1851. Today, the First Sergeant is an established rank at the pay grade of E-8 and remain the senior enlisted member of a company sized unit .

The rank is one pay grade above the rank of Sergeant First Class (SFC) pay grade E-7. It is equivalent in rank to the Master Sergeant at pay grade E-8. It is one rank below the ranks of Sergeant Major (SGM) or command sergeant major (CSM) at pay grade E-9.  

Master sergeants are laterally appointed to first sergeant upon selection by the senior leadership at Department of the Army, while qualified sergeants first class are promoted, depending on available billets and opportunities. A promotable Sergeant First Class or a Master Sergeant may be selected for promotion to or appointment as a First Sergeant and may assume the duty. In short, an individual must occupy the company leadership position to hold this rank. Otherwise, an E-8 would revert to the rank of Master Sergeant.

The Role of the First Sergeant

The First Sergeant is the highest ranking non-commissioned officer that still performs “hands-on” leadership in the United States Army. The importance of the position is exemplified in a phrase used in the German Army, they call the First Sergeant the “Father of the unit”. This is just as true in the U.S. Army. Although equal in grade to rank of master sergeant (MSG), personnel at these two ranks typically have very  different responsibilities.

An Army first sergeant is generally senior to a master sergeant when it comes leadership with the Master Sergeant usually operating in a staff role but, in some cases, a master sergeant may have more general military authority. An example can be seen in the case of a Master sergeant in charge of a military police (MP) section. In addition to managing all of the daily responsibilities of running the company/unit, the First Sergeant is responsible for the leadership and professional development of their soldiers. This can include the following;

Non-commissioned officer development – providing career development counseling and mentoring provided to subordinate noncommissioned officers and overseeing these same activities in regards to those subordinate noncommissioned officers providing the same to personnel below them.

Grooming of enlisted soldiers for professional and career development – ensuring the soldiers under their leadership meet the Army’s grooming standards and are purporting themselves in a professional manner. Additionally, ensuring that soldiers are receiving the required training and taking advantage of opportunities for specialized trainings and assignments that can serve to further their military career.

Manage pay issues and supervise administrative issues – Ensuring that soldier’s under their leadership are paid correctly and assisting in the resolution of pay issues. Also ensuring that soldiers are meeting their financial obligations. Additionally, ensuring that administrative issues are handled appropriately and assisting in the resolution of any that may occur.

Reenlistment – The First Sergeant is key in the area of reenlistment! Reenlistment is equivalent to retention in the business sense. In short, their efforts reduce turnover, improved morale, reduced acquisition and training time, increase overall productivity, reduced costs. They help the Army keep and improve what took so much time and effort to create and build.

Disciplinary actions – First sergeants are the first step in disciplinary actions such as an Article 15 (non-judicial punishment) proceeding. Any form of punishment that may be applied to individual soldiers that doesn’t require a court martial or similar proceedings starts with the First Sergeant.

Fun Fact: A First Sergeant may place a soldier under arrest and even restrict them to their quarters in certain cases.

Commonly referred to as “Top”, “Top Sergeant”, “Top Soldier”, “Top Kick”, or “First Shirt”, due to their seniority and position at the top of the company’s enlisted ranks, it’s obvious that the personnel at this rank represent the best examples of a noncommissioned officer. What this means becomes apparent in the Non-Commissioned Officer’s (NCO) Creed. The NCO Creed reads;

No one is more professional than I. I am a noncommissioned officer, a leader of Soldiers. As a noncommissioned officer, I realize that I am a member of a time honored corps, which is known as “The Backbone of the Army.” I am proud of the Corps of Noncommissioned Officers, and will at all times conduct myself so as to bring credit upon the Corps, the military service, and my country; regardless of the situation in which I find myself. I will not use my grade or position to attain pleasure, profit, or personal safety.

Competence is my watch-word. My two basic responsibilities will always be uppermost in my mind – accomplishment of my mission and the welfare of my Soldiers. I will strive to remain technically and tactically proficient. I am aware of my role as a noncommissioned officer, I will fulfill my responsibilities inherent in that role. All Soldiers are entitled to outstanding leadership; I will provide that leadership. I know my Soldiers, and I will always place their needs above my own. I will communicate consistently with my Soldiers, and never leave them uninformed. I will be fair and impartial when recommending both rewards and punishment.

Officers of my unit will have maximum time to accomplish their duties; they will not have to accomplish mine. I will earn their respect and confidence as well as that of my Soldiers. I will be loyal to those with whom I serve; seniors, peers, and subordinates alike. I will exercise initiative by taking appropriate action in the absence of orders. I will not compromise my integrity, nor my moral courage. I will not forget, nor will I allow my comrades to forget that we are professionals, noncommissioned officers, leaders!

That pretty much says it all!

The distinct rank and insignia of the First Sergeant represent so much more than a pay grade. Just as with a father in a family, they can be (as some may not realize) regarded caregivers. And, just like a father, a rock solid First Sergeant serves to;

• Offer developmentally specific provisions to their soldiers and are impacted themselves by doing so.
• Play an integral role in reducing behavior and psychological problems in young soldiers.
• Through increased involvement may help increase a soldier’s social stability, educational achievement, and their potential to have solid relationships.
• Encourage soldiers to be more curious about the world around them and develop greater problem solving skills. 
• Cause soldiers to perceive themselves to be more cognitively and physically competent than their peers without great senior leadership.

By effectively managing all of the daily responsibilities of running the company/unit and being responsible for the leadership and professional development of their soldiers, the First Sergeant “Makes it Happen”.

ArmyFacts.com

• ArmyFacts.com https://armyfacts.com/author/united-states-army-facts-and-information/ 1965 Vietnam Service Medal - Approved Purpose and Accurate Description
• ArmyFacts.com https://armyfacts.com/author/united-states-army-facts-and-information/ 1918 Distinguished Service Medal - Approved Purpose and Accurate Description
• ArmyFacts.com https://armyfacts.com/author/united-states-army-facts-and-information/ 82nd Airborne Medal of Honor Recipients - 6 Legendary Heroes
• ArmyFacts.com https://armyfacts.com/author/united-states-army-facts-and-information/ The M249 Squad Automatic Weapon - Intense Firepower On-Demand

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Boys high school volleyball: AIA rankings as of March 27, 2024

The first boys volleyball 6a-4a rankings were released on wednesday.

The AIA boys volleyball rankings for 6A, 5A and 4A were released on Wednesday. As each school reaches the halfway point of the season, here are the top 10 teams in each conference as of Wednesday (records do not include tournament games).

Sandra Day O'Connor opens in the No. 1 spot in the first AIA boys volleyball rankings of the season. The Eagles are just one of three remaining undefeated teams as of Wednesday, defeating No. 2 Brophy Prep and No. 6 Highland in the process. Sandra Day O'Connor's Finn Kearney is first in the state in kills (182) while donning a .425 hitting percentage. Despite Brophy Prep's 3-1 loss to Sandra Day O'Connor, all eight of their wins have come in shutout fashion. The Eagles are the only team that Brophy Prep has allowed points to. Connor Oldani of Brophy Prep leads the state in hitting percentage with .530. Here are the top 10 teams in 6A according to AIA as of Wednesday:

• Sandra Day O'Connor (7-0)
• Brophy Prep (8-1)
• Shadow Ridge (8-0)
• Perry (8-0)
• Chandler (7-1)
• Highland (5-2)
• Hamilton (5-1)
• Rincon/University (4-3)
• Red Mountain (5-2)
• Westwood (6-2)

No. 1 in AIA's first 5A rankings, Cienega has taken down four 6A teams — Tucson, Sunnyside, Rincon/University and Marana — en route to an undefeated start to their campaign. The question remains: Can they finish undefeated? The Bobcats face challenging opponents in Catalina Foothills and Ironwood Ridge in mid-April. Williams Field has dominated its schedule thus far, jumping out to a 7-0 start while Jaxton Payne and Luke Raymond are leading the conference in hitting percentage (.500) and aces (28). Casteel and Cactus Shadows have also jumped out to 7-0 starts. Here are the top 10 teams in 5A, according to AIA.

• Cienega (9-0)
• Williams Field (7-0)
• Casteel (7-0)
• Cactus Shadows (7-0)
• ALA - Gilbert North (5-1)
• Catalina Foothills (7-1)
• Higley (4-2)
• Centennial (5-2)
• Campo Verde (5-2)
• Canyon View (2-2)

4A has turned out to be quite the conference. Only one team in AIA's first 4A top 10 rankings of the season has more than one loss. Four undefeated teams — Agua Fria, AZ College Prep, Northwest Christian and Barry Goldwater — clinch the first four spots in the rankings. AZ College Prep and Northwest Christian both have yet to give up a set in each of their contests this season. Two of Northwest Christian's players, Kelson Evans and Gavin Helmer, lead 4A in hitting percentage (Evans, .514) and assists (Helmer, 360). Here are AIA's top 10 teams in 4A as of Wednesday:

• Agua Fria (6-0)
• AZ College Prep (7-0)
• Northwest Christian (6-0)
• Barry Goldwater (7-0)
• Benjamin Franklin (8-1)
• Estrella Foothills (6-1)
• AL - West Foothills (6-2)
• Mica Mountain (6-1)
• Peoria (6-1)
• Eastmark (4-1)

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2024 March Madness TV schedule: How to watch NCAA Tournament, Sweet 16 live stream, tipoff times, announcers

The complete television and streaming schedule for how to watch march madness 2024.

The Sweet 16 is already down to 12 as the 2024 NCAA Tournament continues this week with a second of four straight nights of action set for Friday. We have already seen plenty of dominant victories, shocking upsets and shining moments from this edition of March Madness, and there's eight more games to go before we hit the Final Four.

The top eight teams in the nation -- entering March Madness -- were all still alive in the Sweet 16 for just the fifth time since the NCAA Tournament expanded to 64 teams in 1985, but we have already seen those numbers dwindle.

On Thursday, No. 1 seed UConn blew out No. 5 seed San Diego State, marking its ninth straight double-digit March Madness win. No. 6 Clemson provided a somewhat-surprising upset out in Los Angeles, knocking off No. 2 seed Arizona in the West Regional semifinal and putting the Tigers into the Elite Eight for the first time in 44 years. No. 1 seed North Carolina went down to No. 4 seed Alabama behind a tremendous individual effort from Grant Taylor, and No. 2 seed Iowa State was ousted by No. 3 seed Illinois in a hard-fought battle

Friday's games will again be played across CBS and TBS with the best in the business bringing you the action from Dallas and Detroit. The Elite Eight then commences Saturday on TBS, continuing Sunday on CBS.

Once we get to the Final Four, you will notice veteran Ian Eagle stepping in as the lead play-by-play announcer, replacing the legendary Jim Nantz, who stepped away in 2023. Eagle will be alongside mainstays Bill Raftery, Grant Hill and reporter Tracy Wolfson on the top announcing team. A longtime staple of NCAA Tournament coverage, Eagle was not alone as someone stepping into a new role on the team. Former Purdue star Robbie Hummel called his first NCAA Tournament broadcast during the first week.

CBS and TBS are leading the way televising 21 games apiece during the NCAA Tournament, while truTV and TNT carried 13 and 12, respectively. The Final Four will simulcast across TBS and TNT. In addition to the March Madness Live app , where you can watch every game,  Paramount+ subscribers will be able to watch all the games televised by CBS, while subscribers to Max's B/R Sports Add-On can catch the remainder of the games.

From the Selection Show all the way until the playing of "One Shining Moment" after a champion is crowned, CBS Sports and TNT Sports will be bringing you the magic.

Let's take a look at the 2024 March Madness announcing teams as well as the remaining schedule for the 2024 NCAA Tournament.

2024 March Madness announcing teams

Play-by-Play | Analyst(s) || Reporter * Regional Weekend announce teams

• Ian Eagle | Bill Raftery, Grant Hill || Tracy Wolfson*
• Brian Anderson | Jim Jackson || Allie LaForce*
• Kevin Harlan | Dan Bonner, Stan Van Gundy || Andy Katz*
• Andrew Catalon | Steve Lappas || Evan Washburn*
• Lisa Byington | Steve Smith, Robbie Hummel || Lauren Shehadi
• Spero Dedes | Jim Spanarkel || Jon Rothstein
• Tom McCarthy | Deb Antonelli, Avery Johnson || AJ Ross
• Brad Nessler | Brendan Haywood || Dana Jacobson

2024 NCAA Tournament schedule, dates

Friday, March 29 American Airlines Center -- Dallas (Game 1, Game 3) | Little Caesars Arena -- Detroit (Game 2, Game 4) * Tip time may be delayed if prior game at site ends late

Elite Eight

Saturday, March 30 TD Garden -- Boston (Game 1) | Crypto.com Arena -- Los Angeles (Game 2)

Sunday, March 31 -- 2:20 p.m. start (CBS) American Airlines Center -- Dallas | Little Caesars Arena -- Detroit

Saturday, April 6 -- 6:09 p.m. start (TBS / TNT) State Farm Stadium -- Glendale, Arizona

National Championship

Monday, April 8 -- 9:20 p.m. (TBS / TNT) State Farm Stadium -- Glendale, Arizona

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