3 Strategies to Catch Up on Classwork

College workloads can be daunting for people who may also be balancing family, life and a full-time job. Falling behind can be difficult to avoid, especially with a slate of particularly challenging courses. There’s reason for hope, however. Here are a few strategies you can employ to help turn your situation around.

Organize Your Workload

You can’t complete the work if you don’t identify it first. First, make a list of all your classes across the top of the page. You want a complete view of your workload. Beneath each class, make two columns. In those columns, write down all of the things you’ve accomplished and all the things you’ve yet to accomplish.

This is not a to-do list. This is an overview of your workload. It’s a way to prioritize the remaining work for your classes. From here, you can prioritize your tasks and start working on the most pressing assignments first. Cross them out when you’re finished with them and add them to each respective ‘accomplished’ column.

Reach Out to Your Instructors

If you’re falling behind, don’t be intimidated by your instructors. They encounter this sort of situation frequently, and in most cases, they’re able to help you as long as you contact them early enough. So keep the lines of communication open. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek guidance. Instructors are there to assist you in organizing your classwork and getting back up to speed.

Join a Study Group

Don’t join just any study group. A common mistake is forming a group with other students who are struggling. You may feel like you have more in common with others who are falling behind, but you won’t be able to learn from their study habits if they share the same weaknesses as you.

These groups are typically most effective with four to six people in them. Everyone can contribute something useful. One person might realize the instructor tests more for reading comprehension rather than memorization. Another might be able to introduce you to a unique notetaking style that fits the instructor’s lecture style. Inquire around your classes to see if anyone conducts a regular study group, and ask if you can be a part of it.

If you feel like you’re falling behind, don’t let your anxiety overwhelm you. There’s still time to turn things around. Analyze your situation by prioritizing your workload. Figure out what you’ve already accomplished and what still remains to be done. Contact your professors, form a plan of action and seek out fellow students who can help you overcome your situation.