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]
(..) .. Hang on, Mr. President! .. Let's go! .. GentIemen, I am truIy impressed by your effort and ingenuity. .. Why not swear an oath of IoyaIty to me... .. ...and forego your execution? .. (..)1999 Wild Wild West