you know, I never bought into the whole popular thing in high school. Everyone knew me, I got invited to literally 90% of the parties, and I think several of the chicks wanted to sleep with me, but they were WAAAY to intimidated to even ask.
Know why?
Cause I was different. I was the guy who was blisteringly intelligent, and I used my powers for evil, not for good.

I was bitterly sarcastic, and very cynical, and everyone loved me for it cause no one else was like that. And yet I would not consider myself to be popular.
My advice, and trust me it's good, is to not chase the popular train. Either you'll fail, or become a drone like every other "cool guy". Besides, down the road being popular now will hurt you. I wen't to a middle school reunion last night, and all the cool guys back then acted the same way they used to cause it was how they got cool in 8th grade, while me and my friends changed as we grew, we 'found ourselves' if you will. Me and my buddy spent most of the night flirting and hooking up with hot girls, while Mr. Cool Dude himself was struggling to get with this gross chick with no chin. I'm telling you truthfully, being who you are and a different person will get you more than becoming mr. trendy popular guy.
You will be much, much happier if you find some good friends. I mean good guys, people who you would put your life in their hands, and a good girlfriend who makes you happy. That beats popular friends and superficial h0s any day. Besides, you can still hook up with random chicks and have girls chase you if you do it my way, you will just be happier.