The Basics (just in case)

  • DO read the syllabus, whether it’s a traditional paper document or a living, breathing Moodle. It will have helpful information beyond the readings and assignment deadlines.
  • DO take some time to get familiar with the layout of your course webpages. Each learning management tool (Moodle, Canvas, Blackboard, etc) works a little differently, and even with the same template, different faculty arrange their pages in different ways. Find out where to find general materials, specific readings, forums, and deadlines. Take a good chunk of time to familiarize yourself with the syllabus and web materials for each class to prevent things from sneaking up on you.
  • DO your readings. Importantly, do them according to course goals rather than linearly (see How to Read for Graduate School). Take some time to get to know any e-textbooks and course reserves for your class. Some e-textbooks are very open and allow you to download all or part of the book. Others are very restrictive, and, like a physical course reserve at the library, can only be used by one or two people at once. Know which kind your classes use so you can plan ahead.
  • DO plan ahead: give yourself enough time to work through tasks and ask for help before any deadlines. Remember that during busy times of year, it may take your peers, your internship people, or your instructors a day or two to get back to you. Build that wait time into your work plan.
  • DO integrate important class deadlines into the calendar system you use for your daily life. If you’re taking multiple classes, color code these on your calendar. Be particularly aware of assignments due at the same time so you can create a schedule that allows you to get everything done.
  • DO break activities, assignments, and readings down into concrete steps and create to-do lists.
  • DO start your work tasks early. If you begin a problem set the night before it’s due, you will not have time to reach out for help. Give yourself a few days to do even smaller activities like forum posts.
  • DO set time limits. DON’T struggle over one problem or word for hours on end. Try this model for new, tech-heavy challenges: work for 45 minutes using your tools and notes. Walk away for at least an hour, or overnight if possible. Come back and try again for 45 more minutes. If you still hit a stumbling block, ask for help from peers and/or instructors.
  • DO ask for help! If you are struggling with an assignment, do not skip it or turn it in partially complete. Ask peers or your study group for advice and ask your professor for support. Attend office hours or ask a professor to schedule a 1:1 meeting. If something is happening in your life that is pushing coursework to the backseat, let your professor know so you can work out a plan to finish the course successfully.
  • DO stick to your schedule. DON’T let the lack of human oversight leave you doing many weeks’ worth of work in a short period of time.
  • DO prioritize. Think about pressing deadlines, what can be accomplished in the time you have available, and potential time conflicts.