One possible reason could be that Harry has some secret study techniques he hasn't shared. Maybe he has a better understanding of practical magic which is more emphasized in the grading system in this fanfic.
Well, one aspect could be his courage in the face of danger. Harry often jumps into dangerous situations without hesitation, while Hermione might overthink and be more cautious. For example, in battles, Harry's quick instincts make him act faster to protect others.
There probably is. Some fanfiction writers may focus on highlighting Harry's unique qualities or achievements that they believe make him 'better' in certain aspects compared to Hermione. For example, they might emphasize his courage in the face of danger more than Hermione's intelligence. But it really depends on how each writer interprets the characters and their relationship.
It could be that Hermione feels overshadowed in general. Harry is already famous in the wizarding world, and now if he's also doing well academically, she might worry that she's becoming less important. Also, she might be afraid that Harry is getting all the attention from the teachers, especially those she really respects, like Professor McGonagall.
There might be a plot where Harry outperforms Hermione in a magical duel. His unique spellcasting skills and his ability to improvise in combat could be highlighted, showing that he is better in that aspect.
In the fanfic, Harry could have a range of reactions. At first, he might be in denial, thinking that Hermione is just joking or that she will change her mind. Then, when he realizes it's for real, he could get angry, feeling like he's been unfairly judged or rejected. However, over time, he may come to accept it and focus on other aspects of his life, like his fight against the dark forces or his relationships with other friends.
One can expect a re - evaluation of the characters' traits. In such fanfiction, Harry could be depicted as having a stronger moral compass or being more intuitive than Hermione. It might also show him being more successful in battles or in winning over the hearts of other characters. For instance, the fanfiction could portray Harry as having a better understanding of the magical world's politics, which gives him an edge over Hermione. Also, the relationships between Harry and other characters, like Ron or Dumbledore, might be enhanced in a way that makes Harry seem superior to Hermione.
A plotline could also be set in a magical competition where the tasks require a combination of physical and mental abilities. Harry's physical prowess combined with his growing magical knowledge might enable him to outdo Hermione. For instance, in a task that involves both spell - casting and physical endurance, Harry's training from all his adventures gives him an edge over Hermione who is more focused on academic study. These fanfictions often re - evaluate the traditional view of their capabilities within the framework of the Harry Potter world.
In some fanfictions, Harry might get better grades by forming a study group with his friends. They could help each other understand difficult subjects like Potions or Transfiguration. For example, Hermione could share her study techniques, and Ron could offer practical examples from his own experiences. This collaborative effort would lead to Harry improving his academic performance.