The school 'makes every effort' [=the school does all that it can] 'to help' new students become adjusted to college life.
His novel's surprise ending is not really convincing, but we'll give him 'an A for effort'.
He wanted to contribute in some way to the 'war effort'. [=to the effort to win the war]
(..) Did nobody tell you? Of course they told me. You are a great hero. But still, since you returned to the city, you've made no effort to see me. And, in the meantime, I have had an interesting idea. What idea? I thought, for once, you might like me to whip you. (..)2016 TvShow: Vikings Title: Portage Season: 4 Episode 8