• Skip to content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Right Attitudes

Ideas for Impact

Assignments Hacks: 8 Tips to Get It Done Faster

October 16, 2020 By Nagesh Belludi Leave a Comment

When you are in college, assignments can go both ways. They can either be interesting or a big challenge . The latter happens very often, especially if you have little time or are tired. What should be a short assignment can turn into hours of work, finished with an essay of average quality.

But, there’s no reason why writing should be so hard for a student. With the 8 tips in this list, you can make your assignments easier and complete them faster.

Assignments Hacks: 8 Tips to Get It Done Faster (Courtesy: Andrew Neel at Unspash)

Before you start working on your homework and assignments, you need a plan. You don’t want to end up juggling more tasks than you can handle when you can simply prioritize and get everything done on schedule.

Figure out how much time you have. Then, see how much you’ll need to complete your assignments. Be realistic while doing so. If a task isn’t due in a week, complete the ones that have a more urgent schedule. But, if you realize that you won’t have time for it, make sure to find a solution sooner to avoid the pressure afterward.

If the time is still tight and you fear that you won’t be able to handle the pressure, you can always ask Writix to write your assignment. Delegating your tasks is much better than missing deadlines and ruining your grades.

Find the Ideal Working Space

Students have different spaces where they feel most productive and can do their work without problems. If you are distracted by the TV, you need a room without it. If you prefer some background noise, this is the cafe around the corner for you. Or, you can go the traditional way and do your research and writing in the library.

Experiment a little to find your ideal working space. This can boost your productivity, keep you focused, and help you complete your assignments faster.

Gather All the Tools You Need

When you are working on your papers, you’ll need some basic tools like pens, calculators, your laptop, an Internet connection, some books for the research, your notes, etc.

Have these at your fingertips when you do your work. Having to go around the house looking for that book you need for your homework can take away your focus.

Turn Off Your Phone

Nowadays, if you want to ace your assignment, you need to turn off social media, notifications, and all those endless messages from your friends. Your phone beeping every minute is sure to take away your focus. You’ll find yourself procrastinating and tasks will take much longer than they should. For the duration of your studying, turn off your mobile device.

Try Some Background Music

Studying with some background music works for many, so why wouldn’t this work for writing, too? Try out different things such as classical music, background lyric-free melodies, nature songs, etc. Don’t go overboard and pick genres that have too much wording in it—it can be a distraction.

Keep Yourself Hydrated—and Well-Fed

Nutrition is highly important while you’re at college. In a rush to get things done, many slack off on the most important thing—their wellbeing. To keep your energy levels high and remain focused on the work, have some brain food handy for snacks, and hydrate regularly.

Make your assignment writing faster and more effective (Courtesy: Avatar of user Nick Morrison at Unspash)

Make Time for Breaks

Pushing yourself too hard will only make you work slower. It can also have a bad effect on the quality of your work. When making your schedule, take some time for breaks. Don’t overdo it, but make sure that your schedule is flexible. This way, when you feel like you are losing focus, you can take a 20-minute break to refuel and keep going.

Praise Your Work

Small rewards can do wonders with our motivation. When you cross a thing off your schedule, reward yourself with something. It doesn’t have to be anything big. Sit down and watch an episode from your favorite show while sipping on hot cocoa. Go out and have a night off with your friends. Play your favorite game or simply stay home in bed all day. A bit of praise never hurt anyone.

Final Thoughts

Assignments aren’t always fun. When you are assigned task after task, this can become so dull and repetitive, students can hardly sit down to write. However, with some organization and tricks under your sleeve, the school can get significantly easier as you go. Use these 8 tips to make your assignment writing faster and more effective.

Share this:

  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
  • Click to email this to a friend (Opens in new window)

Wondering what to read next?

  • The Twelve Most Persuasive Words in English
  • Stephen King’s Tips for Writing Better
  • 5 Crucial Tips for Writing Polished Email Marketing Copy
  • The More You Write, The Better You Become
  • Persuade Others to See Things Your Way: Use Aristotle’s Ethos, Logos, Pathos, and Timing

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

PrepScholar

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, how to do homework: 15 expert tips and tricks.

author image

Coursework/GPA

feature-homework-stress-biting-pencil

Everyone struggles with homework sometimes, but if getting your homework done has become a chronic issue for you, then you may need a little extra help. That’s why we’ve written this article all about how to do homework. Once you’re finished reading it, you’ll know how to do homework (and have tons of new ways to motivate yourself to do homework)!

We’ve broken this article down into a few major sections. You’ll find:

  • A diagnostic test to help you figure out why you’re struggling with homework
  • A discussion of the four major homework problems students face, along with expert tips for addressing them
  • A bonus section with tips for how to do homework fast

By the end of this article, you’ll be prepared to tackle whatever homework assignments your teachers throw at you .

So let’s get started!

body-stack-of-textbooks-red

How to Do Homework: Figure Out Your Struggles 

Sometimes it feels like everything is standing between you and getting your homework done. But the truth is, most people only have one or two major roadblocks that are keeping them from getting their homework done well and on time. 

The best way to figure out how to get motivated to do homework starts with pinpointing the issues that are affecting your ability to get your assignments done. That’s why we’ve developed a short quiz to help you identify the areas where you’re struggling. 

Take the quiz below and record your answers on your phone or on a scrap piece of paper. Keep in mind there are no wrong answers! 

1. You’ve just been assigned an essay in your English class that’s due at the end of the week. What’s the first thing you do?

A. Keep it in mind, even though you won’t start it until the day before it’s due  B. Open up your planner. You’ve got to figure out when you’ll write your paper since you have band practice, a speech tournament, and your little sister’s dance recital this week, too.  C. Groan out loud. Another essay? You could barely get yourself to write the last one!  D. Start thinking about your essay topic, which makes you think about your art project that’s due the same day, which reminds you that your favorite artist might have just posted to Instagram...so you better check your feed right now. 

2. Your mom asked you to pick up your room before she gets home from work. You’ve just gotten home from school. You decide you’ll tackle your chores: 

A. Five minutes before your mom walks through the front door. As long as it gets done, who cares when you start?  B. As soon as you get home from your shift at the local grocery store.  C. After you give yourself a 15-minute pep talk about how you need to get to work.  D. You won’t get it done. Between texts from your friends, trying to watch your favorite Netflix show, and playing with your dog, you just lost track of time! 

3. You’ve signed up to wash dogs at the Humane Society to help earn money for your senior class trip. You: 

A. Show up ten minutes late. You put off leaving your house until the last minute, then got stuck in unexpected traffic on the way to the shelter.  B. Have to call and cancel at the last minute. You forgot you’d already agreed to babysit your cousin and bake cupcakes for tomorrow’s bake sale.  C. Actually arrive fifteen minutes early with extra brushes and bandanas you picked up at the store. You’re passionate about animals, so you’re excited to help out! D. Show up on time, but only get three dogs washed. You couldn’t help it: you just kept getting distracted by how cute they were!

4. You have an hour of downtime, so you decide you’re going to watch an episode of The Great British Baking Show. You: 

A. Scroll through your social media feeds for twenty minutes before hitting play, which means you’re not able to finish the whole episode. Ugh! You really wanted to see who was sent home!  B. Watch fifteen minutes until you remember you’re supposed to pick up your sister from band practice before heading to your part-time job. No GBBO for you!  C. You finish one episode, then decide to watch another even though you’ve got SAT studying to do. It’s just more fun to watch people make scones.  D. Start the episode, but only catch bits and pieces of it because you’re reading Twitter, cleaning out your backpack, and eating a snack at the same time.

5. Your teacher asks you to stay after class because you’ve missed turning in two homework assignments in a row. When she asks you what’s wrong, you say: 

A. You planned to do your assignments during lunch, but you ran out of time. You decided it would be better to turn in nothing at all than submit unfinished work.  B. You really wanted to get the assignments done, but between your extracurriculars, family commitments, and your part-time job, your homework fell through the cracks.  C. You have a hard time psyching yourself to tackle the assignments. You just can’t seem to find the motivation to work on them once you get home.  D. You tried to do them, but you had a hard time focusing. By the time you realized you hadn’t gotten anything done, it was already time to turn them in. 

Like we said earlier, there are no right or wrong answers to this quiz (though your results will be better if you answered as honestly as possible). Here’s how your answers break down: 

  • If your answers were mostly As, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is procrastination. 
  • If your answers were mostly Bs, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is time management. 
  • If your answers were mostly Cs, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is motivation. 
  • If your answers were mostly Ds, then your biggest struggle with doing homework is getting distracted. 

Now that you’ve identified why you’re having a hard time getting your homework done, we can help you figure out how to fix it! Scroll down to find your core problem area to learn more about how you can start to address it. 

And one more thing: you’re really struggling with homework, it’s a good idea to read through every section below. You may find some additional tips that will help make homework less intimidating. 

body-procrastination-meme

How to Do Homework When You’re a Procrastinator  

Merriam Webster defines “procrastinate” as “to put off intentionally and habitually.” In other words, procrastination is when you choose to do something at the last minute on a regular basis. If you’ve ever found yourself pulling an all-nighter, trying to finish an assignment between periods, or sprinting to turn in a paper minutes before a deadline, you’ve experienced the effects of procrastination. 

If you’re a chronic procrastinator, you’re in good company. In fact, one study found that 70% to 95% of undergraduate students procrastinate when it comes to doing their homework. Unfortunately, procrastination can negatively impact your grades. Researchers have found that procrastination can lower your grade on an assignment by as much as five points ...which might not sound serious until you realize that can mean the difference between a B- and a C+. 

Procrastination can also negatively affect your health by increasing your stress levels , which can lead to other health conditions like insomnia, a weakened immune system, and even heart conditions. Getting a handle on procrastination can not only improve your grades, it can make you feel better, too! 

The big thing to understand about procrastination is that it’s not the result of laziness. Laziness is defined as being “disinclined to activity or exertion.” In other words, being lazy is all about doing nothing. But a s this Psychology Today article explains , procrastinators don’t put things off because they don’t want to work. Instead, procrastinators tend to postpone tasks they don’t want to do in favor of tasks that they perceive as either more important or more fun. Put another way, procrastinators want to do things...as long as it’s not their homework! 

3 Tips f or Conquering Procrastination 

Because putting off doing homework is a common problem, there are lots of good tactics for addressing procrastination. Keep reading for our three expert tips that will get your homework habits back on track in no time. 

#1: Create a Reward System

Like we mentioned earlier, procrastination happens when you prioritize other activities over getting your homework done. Many times, this happens because homework...well, just isn’t enjoyable. But you can add some fun back into the process by rewarding yourself for getting your work done. 

Here’s what we mean: let’s say you decide that every time you get your homework done before the day it’s due, you’ll give yourself a point. For every five points you earn, you’ll treat yourself to your favorite dessert: a chocolate cupcake! Now you have an extra (delicious!) incentive to motivate you to leave procrastination in the dust. 

If you’re not into cupcakes, don’t worry. Your reward can be anything that motivates you . Maybe it’s hanging out with your best friend or an extra ten minutes of video game time. As long as you’re choosing something that makes homework worth doing, you’ll be successful. 

#2: Have a Homework Accountability Partner 

If you’re having trouble getting yourself to start your homework ahead of time, it may be a good idea to call in reinforcements . Find a friend or classmate you can trust and explain to them that you’re trying to change your homework habits. Ask them if they’d be willing to text you to make sure you’re doing your homework and check in with you once a week to see if you’re meeting your anti-procrastination goals. 

Sharing your goals can make them feel more real, and an accountability partner can help hold you responsible for your decisions. For example, let’s say you’re tempted to put off your science lab write-up until the morning before it’s due. But you know that your accountability partner is going to text you about it tomorrow...and you don’t want to fess up that you haven’t started your assignment. A homework accountability partner can give you the extra support and incentive you need to keep your homework habits on track. 

#3: Create Your Own Due Dates 

If you’re a life-long procrastinator, you might find that changing the habit is harder than you expected. In that case, you might try using procrastination to your advantage! If you just can’t seem to stop doing your work at the last minute, try setting your own due dates for assignments that range from a day to a week before the assignment is actually due. 

Here’s what we mean. Let’s say you have a math worksheet that’s been assigned on Tuesday and is due on Friday. In your planner, you can write down the due date as Thursday instead. You may still put off your homework assignment until the last minute...but in this case, the “last minute” is a day before the assignment’s real due date . This little hack can trick your procrastination-addicted brain into planning ahead! 

body-busy-meme-2

If you feel like Kevin Hart in this meme, then our tips for doing homework when you're busy are for you. 

How to Do Homework When You’re too Busy

If you’re aiming to go to a top-tier college , you’re going to have a full plate. Because college admissions is getting more competitive, it’s important that you’re maintaining your grades , studying hard for your standardized tests , and participating in extracurriculars so your application stands out. A packed schedule can get even more hectic once you add family obligations or a part-time job to the mix. 

If you feel like you’re being pulled in a million directions at once, you’re not alone. Recent research has found that stress—and more severe stress-related conditions like anxiety and depression— are a major problem for high school students . In fact, one study from the American Psychological Association found that during the school year, students’ stress levels are higher than those of the adults around them. 

For students, homework is a major contributor to their overall stress levels . Many high schoolers have multiple hours of homework every night , and figuring out how to fit it into an already-packed schedule can seem impossible. 

3 Tips for Fitting Homework Into Your Busy Schedule

While it might feel like you have literally no time left in your schedule, there are still ways to make sure you’re able to get your homework done and meet your other commitments. Here are our expert homework tips for even the busiest of students. 

#1: Make a Prioritized To-Do List 

You probably already have a to-do list to keep yourself on track. The next step is to prioritize the items on your to-do list so you can see what items need your attention right away. 

Here’s how it works: at the beginning of each day, sit down and make a list of all the items you need to get done before you go to bed. This includes your homework, but it should also take into account any practices, chores, events, or job shifts you may have. Once you get everything listed out, it’s time to prioritize them using the labels A, B, and C. Here’s what those labels mean:

  • A Tasks : tasks that have to get done—like showing up at work or turning in an assignment—get an A. 
  • B Tasks : these are tasks that you would like to get done by the end of the day but aren’t as time sensitive. For example, studying for a test you have next week could be a B-level task. It’s still important, but it doesn’t have to be done right away.
  • C Tasks: these are tasks that aren’t very important and/or have no real consequences if you don’t get them done immediately. For instance, if you’re hoping to clean out your closet but it’s not an assigned chore from your parents, you could label that to-do item with a C.

Prioritizing your to-do list helps you visualize which items need your immediate attention, and which items you can leave for later. A prioritized to-do list ensures that you’re spending your time efficiently and effectively, which helps you make room in your schedule for homework. So even though you might really want to start making decorations for Homecoming (a B task), you’ll know that finishing your reading log (an A task) is more important. 

#2: Use a Planner With Time Labels

Your planner is probably packed with notes, events, and assignments already. (And if you’re not using a planner, it’s time to start!) But planners can do more for you than just remind you when an assignment is due. If you’re using a planner with time labels, it can help you visualize how you need to spend your day.

A planner with time labels breaks your day down into chunks, and you assign tasks to each chunk of time. For example, you can make a note of your class schedule with assignments, block out time to study, and make sure you know when you need to be at practice. Once you know which tasks take priority, you can add them to any empty spaces in your day. 

Planning out how you spend your time not only helps you use it wisely, it can help you feel less overwhelmed, too . We’re big fans of planners that include a task list ( like this one ) or have room for notes ( like this one ). 

#3: Set Reminders on Your Phone 

If you need a little extra nudge to make sure you’re getting your homework done on time, it’s a good idea to set some reminders on your phone. You don’t need a fancy app, either. You can use your alarm app to have it go off at specific times throughout the day to remind you to do your homework. This works especially well if you have a set homework time scheduled. So if you’ve decided you’re doing homework at 6:00 pm, you can set an alarm to remind you to bust out your books and get to work. 

If you use your phone as your planner, you may have the option to add alerts, emails, or notifications to scheduled events . Many calendar apps, including the one that comes with your phone, have built-in reminders that you can customize to meet your needs. So if you block off time to do your homework from 4:30 to 6:00 pm, you can set a reminder that will pop up on your phone when it’s time to get started. 

body-unmotivated-meme

This dog isn't judging your lack of motivation...but your teacher might. Keep reading for tips to help you motivate yourself to do your homework.

How to Do Homework When You’re Unmotivated 

At first glance, it may seem like procrastination and being unmotivated are the same thing. After all, both of these issues usually result in you putting off your homework until the very last minute. 

But there’s one key difference: many procrastinators are working, they’re just prioritizing work differently. They know they’re going to start their homework...they’re just going to do it later. 

Conversely, people who are unmotivated to do homework just can’t find the willpower to tackle their assignments. Procrastinators know they’ll at least attempt the homework at the last minute, whereas people who are unmotivated struggle with convincing themselves to do it at a ll. For procrastinators, the stress comes from the inevitable time crunch. For unmotivated people, the stress comes from trying to convince themselves to do something they don’t want to do in the first place. 

Here are some common reasons students are unmotivated in doing homework : 

  • Assignments are too easy, too hard, or seemingly pointless 
  • Students aren’t interested in (or passionate about) the subject matter
  • Students are intimidated by the work and/or feels like they don’t understand the assignment 
  • Homework isn’t fun, and students would rather spend their time on things that they enjoy 

To sum it up: people who lack motivation to do their homework are more likely to not do it at all, or to spend more time worrying about doing their homework than...well, actually doing it.

3 Tips for How to Get Motivated to Do Homework

The key to getting homework done when you’re unmotivated is to figure out what does motivate you, then apply those things to homework. It sounds tricky...but it’s pretty simple once you get the hang of it! Here are our three expert tips for motivating yourself to do your homework. 

#1: Use Incremental Incentives

When you’re not motivated, it’s important to give yourself small rewards to stay focused on finishing the task at hand. The trick is to keep the incentives small and to reward yourself often. For example, maybe you’re reading a good book in your free time. For every ten minutes you spend on your homework, you get to read five pages of your book. Like we mentioned earlier, make sure you’re choosing a reward that works for you! 

So why does this technique work? Using small rewards more often allows you to experience small wins for getting your work done. Every time you make it to one of your tiny reward points, you get to celebrate your success, which gives your brain a boost of dopamine . Dopamine helps you stay motivated and also creates a feeling of satisfaction when you complete your homework !  

#2: Form a Homework Group 

If you’re having trouble motivating yourself, it’s okay to turn to others for support. Creating a homework group can help with this. Bring together a group of your friends or classmates, and pick one time a week where you meet and work on homework together. You don’t have to be in the same class, or even taking the same subjects— the goal is to encourage one another to start (and finish!) your assignments. 

Another added benefit of a homework group is that you can help one another if you’re struggling to understand the material covered in your classes. This is especially helpful if your lack of motivation comes from being intimidated by your assignments. Asking your friends for help may feel less scary than talking to your teacher...and once you get a handle on the material, your homework may become less frightening, too. 

#3: Change Up Your Environment 

If you find that you’re totally unmotivated, it may help if you find a new place to do your homework. For example, if you’ve been struggling to get your homework done at home, try spending an extra hour in the library after school instead. The change of scenery can limit your distractions and give you the energy you need to get your work done. 

If you’re stuck doing homework at home, you can still use this tip. For instance, maybe you’ve always done your homework sitting on your bed. Try relocating somewhere else, like your kitchen table, for a few weeks. You may find that setting up a new “homework spot” in your house gives you a motivational lift and helps you get your work done. 

body-focus-meme

Social media can be a huge problem when it comes to doing homework. We have advice for helping you unplug and regain focus.

How to Do Homework When You’re Easily Distracted

We live in an always-on world, and there are tons of things clamoring for our attention. From friends and family to pop culture and social media, it seems like there’s always something (or someone!) distracting us from the things we need to do.

The 24/7 world we live in has affected our ability to focus on tasks for prolonged periods of time. Research has shown that over the past decade, an average person’s attention span has gone from 12 seconds to eight seconds . And when we do lose focus, i t takes people a long time to get back on task . One study found that it can take as long as 23 minutes to get back to work once we’ve been distracte d. No wonder it can take hours to get your homework done! 

3 Tips to Improve Your Focus

If you have a hard time focusing when you’re doing your homework, it’s a good idea to try and eliminate as many distractions as possible. Here are three expert tips for blocking out the noise so you can focus on getting your homework done. 

#1: Create a Distraction-Free Environment

Pick a place where you’ll do your homework every day, and make it as distraction-free as possible. Try to find a location where there won’t be tons of noise, and limit your access to screens while you’re doing your homework. Put together a focus-oriented playlist (or choose one on your favorite streaming service), and put your headphones on while you work. 

You may find that other people, like your friends and family, are your biggest distraction. If that’s the case, try setting up some homework boundaries. Let them know when you’ll be working on homework every day, and ask them if they’ll help you keep a quiet environment. They’ll be happy to lend a hand! 

#2: Limit Your Access to Technology 

We know, we know...this tip isn’t fun, but it does work. For homework that doesn’t require a computer, like handouts or worksheets, it’s best to put all your technology away . Turn off your television, put your phone and laptop in your backpack, and silence notifications on any wearable tech you may be sporting. If you listen to music while you work, that’s fine...but make sure you have a playlist set up so you’re not shuffling through songs once you get started on your homework. 

If your homework requires your laptop or tablet, it can be harder to limit your access to distractions. But it’s not impossible! T here are apps you can download that will block certain websites while you’re working so that you’re not tempted to scroll through Twitter or check your Facebook feed. Silence notifications and text messages on your computer, and don’t open your email account unless you absolutely have to. And if you don’t need access to the internet to complete your assignments, turn off your WiFi. Cutting out the online chatter is a great way to make sure you’re getting your homework done. 

#3: Set a Timer (the Pomodoro Technique)

Have you ever heard of the Pomodoro technique ? It’s a productivity hack that uses a timer to help you focus!

Here’s how it works: first, set a timer for 25 minutes. This is going to be your work time. During this 25 minutes, all you can do is work on whatever homework assignment you have in front of you. No email, no text messaging, no phone calls—just homework. When that timer goes off, you get to take a 5 minute break. Every time you go through one of these cycles, it’s called a “pomodoro.” For every four pomodoros you complete, you can take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes.

The pomodoro technique works through a combination of boundary setting and rewards. First, it gives you a finite amount of time to focus, so you know that you only have to work really hard for 25 minutes. Once you’ve done that, you’re rewarded with a short break where you can do whatever you want. Additionally, tracking how many pomodoros you complete can help you see how long you’re really working on your homework. (Once you start using our focus tips, you may find it doesn’t take as long as you thought!)

body-hand-number-two

Two Bonus Tips for How to Do Homework Fast

Even if you’re doing everything right, there will be times when you just need to get your homework done as fast as possible. (Why do teachers always have projects due in the same week? The world may never know.)

The problem with speeding through homework is that it’s easy to make mistakes. While turning in an assignment is always better than not submitting anything at all, you want to make sure that you’re not compromising quality for speed. Simply put, the goal is to get your homework done quickly and still make a good grade on the assignment! 

Here are our two bonus tips for getting a decent grade on your homework assignments , even when you’re in a time crunch. 

#1: Do the Easy Parts First 

This is especially true if you’re working on a handout with multiple questions. Before you start working on the assignment, read through all the questions and problems. As you do, make a mark beside the questions you think are “easy” to answer . 

Once you’ve finished going through the whole assignment, you can answer these questions first. Getting the easy questions out of the way as quickly as possible lets you spend more time on the trickier portions of your homework, which will maximize your assignment grade. 

(Quick note: this is also a good strategy to use on timed assignments and tests, like the SAT and the ACT !) 

#2: Pay Attention in Class 

Homework gets a lot easier when you’re actively learning the material. Teachers aren’t giving you homework because they’re mean or trying to ruin your weekend... it’s because they want you to really understand the course material. Homework is designed to reinforce what you’re already learning in class so you’ll be ready to tackle harder concepts later.

When you pay attention in class, ask questions, and take good notes, you’re absorbing the information you’ll need to succeed on your homework assignments. (You’re stuck in class anyway, so you might as well make the most of it!) Not only will paying attention in class make your homework less confusing, it will also help it go much faster, too.

body_next_step_drawing_blackboard

What’s Next?

If you’re looking to improve your productivity beyond homework, a good place to begin is with time management. After all, we only have so much time in a day...so it’s important to get the most out of it! To get you started, check out this list of the 12 best time management techniques that you can start using today.

You may have read this article because homework struggles have been affecting your GPA. Now that you’re on the path to homework success, it’s time to start being proactive about raising your grades. This article teaches you everything you need to know about raising your GPA so you can

Now you know how to get motivated to do homework...but what about your study habits? Studying is just as critical to getting good grades, and ultimately getting into a good college . We can teach you how to study bette r in high school. (We’ve also got tons of resources to help you study for your ACT and SAT exams , too!)

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

author image

Ashley Sufflé Robinson has a Ph.D. in 19th Century English Literature. As a content writer for PrepScholar, Ashley is passionate about giving college-bound students the in-depth information they need to get into the school of their dreams.

Student and Parent Forum

Our new student and parent forum, at ExpertHub.PrepScholar.com , allow you to interact with your peers and the PrepScholar staff. See how other students and parents are navigating high school, college, and the college admissions process. Ask questions; get answers.

Join the Conversation

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

Improve With Our Famous Guides

  • For All Students

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 160+ SAT Points

How to Get a Perfect 1600, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 800 on Each SAT Section:

Score 800 on SAT Math

Score 800 on SAT Reading

Score 800 on SAT Writing

Series: How to Get to 600 on Each SAT Section:

Score 600 on SAT Math

Score 600 on SAT Reading

Score 600 on SAT Writing

Free Complete Official SAT Practice Tests

What SAT Target Score Should You Be Aiming For?

15 Strategies to Improve Your SAT Essay

The 5 Strategies You Must Be Using to Improve 4+ ACT Points

How to Get a Perfect 36 ACT, by a Perfect Scorer

Series: How to Get 36 on Each ACT Section:

36 on ACT English

36 on ACT Math

36 on ACT Reading

36 on ACT Science

Series: How to Get to 24 on Each ACT Section:

24 on ACT English

24 on ACT Math

24 on ACT Reading

24 on ACT Science

What ACT target score should you be aiming for?

ACT Vocabulary You Must Know

ACT Writing: 15 Tips to Raise Your Essay Score

How to Get Into Harvard and the Ivy League

How to Get a Perfect 4.0 GPA

How to Write an Amazing College Essay

What Exactly Are Colleges Looking For?

Is the ACT easier than the SAT? A Comprehensive Guide

Should you retake your SAT or ACT?

When should you take the SAT or ACT?

Stay Informed

how to get assignments done on time

Get the latest articles and test prep tips!

Looking for Graduate School Test Prep?

Check out our top-rated graduate blogs here:

GRE Online Prep Blog

GMAT Online Prep Blog

TOEFL Online Prep Blog

Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

4 Tips for Completing Your Homework On Time

  • Study Skills
  • Test Prep Strategies
  • SAT Test Prep
  • ACT Test Prep
  • GRE Test Prep
  • LSAT Test Prep
  • Certifications
  • Homework Help
  • Private School
  • College Admissions
  • College Life
  • Graduate School
  • Business School
  • Distance Learning

how to get assignments done on time

  • B.A., English, University of Michigan

Homework, a necessary evil according to many teachers, has a lot of students tied up in knots. Some students can never seem to get things turned in on time. In fact, many students do not even realize that they  have  homework until a friend from class texts them or they overhear someone in the halls talking about Ms. So-and-so's terrible, no-good, awful, horrifying worksheet for Chemistry that is due the next day. These five tips for completing your homework on time, however, should help you get that homework finished on time. 

Tip 1: Rely On a Planning System

Most of you by now are well acquainted with a homework planner. It has the dates, the school subjects you are taking, and a whole lot of blank space to write down your homework assignments. Use these planners if you have them. Writing with an actual pencil or pen may seem almost archaic what with technology virtually doing everything for us, but the kinesthetic movement of writing down an assignment into one of those little squares (Language Arts test tomorrow - STUDY TONIGHT), will actually help solidify that homework in your brain.

Plus, when you are packing up to go home at the end of the school day, all you have to do is open up that planner to see which books, folders, and binders need to go home with you so you will not miss out anything that you need to do that evening.

Some people  hate  using planners. They'd rather walk on a pile of crushed glass than actually write something down in a planner. That's quite all right. One student kept a wadded up piece of paper in his pocket where he'd scrawl his assignments. It worked for him, so it was fine. For those of you not keen on planners or crumpled up notes, your phone can come in really handy. Just download a productivity app and type your assignments in there. Or, keep track of all the work due in the notes section of your phone. Or, snap a picture of the homework board in each teacher's class before you head out into the hallway. Or, if you are really dead-set against anything planner-related, then just send yourself a text after each class with your homework assignments for the night.

No matter which planning system you prefer, use it. Check off each item once you get it in your backpack. Your brain can only process so much information at a time, so you absolutely must write your homework down if you plan to complete it on time. 

Tip 2: Prioritize Your Homework Assignments

All assignments are not created equal. It's strongly recommended you use a prioritizing system when you sit down at home with your homework. Try a system a little something like this:

  • Examples: Studying for a major test coming up tomorrow. Finishing a major project due tomorrow. Writing an essay worth a LOT of points that is due tomorrow. 
  • Examples:  Studying for a quiz coming up tomorrow. Completing a homework sheet that is due tomorrow. Reading a chapter that is due tomorrow. 
  • Examples: Studying for a spelling test that will occur on Friday. Writing a blog and posting it on the class board by Friday. Finish a book upon which you will take a quiz on Friday.
  • Examples: Reviewing chapters for the midterm exam. Working on an on-going project, research paper, or long assignment due at the end of the quarter. Completing a packet that isn't due for two weeks. 

Once you've prioritized the work you have to do, complete all the 1's first, then the 2's, moving down as you go. That way, if you find yourself pressed for time because Great-Grandma decided to stop over for family dinner and your mom insisted you spend the evening playing bridge with her despite the fact that you have hours of homework ahead of you, then you will not have missed anything vitally important to your grade. 

Tip 3: Get the Worst Assignment Over With First

So, maybe you absolutely hate writing essays (But, why, though when all you have to do is follow these essay tips? ) and you have a major essay staring you in the face that  must  be completed before tomorrow. You also have to study for a major math test, complete a social studies blog by Friday, study for the ACT  next month, and finish up your science worksheet from class. Your "1" assignments would be the essay and the math test. Your "2" assignment is the science worksheet, the "3" assignment is that blog, and the "4" assignment is studying for the ACT. 

Ordinarily, you would start with the science worksheet because you  love  science, but that would be a big mistake. Start with those "1" assignments and knock out that essay first. Why? Because you hate it. And completing the worst assignment first gets it off your mind, out of your homework cache, and makes everything that comes after it appears to be really, really easy. It will be an absolute  joy  to complete that science worksheet once you have written the essay. Why rob yourself of joy? 

Then, once you've completed the stuff due first, you can focus on putting in a little bit of time on the ACT. Easy peasy.

Tip 4: Take Planned Breaks

Some people believe that sitting down to complete homework means that you literally park your behind in a chair and you don't move it for the next four thousand hours or so. That is one of the worst study ideas in history. Your brain only has the capacity to stay focused for about 45 minutes (maybe even less for some of you) before it goes on the fritz and starts wanting to make you get up and dance the Roger Rabbit. So, schedule your study time with breaks actually built in . Work for 45 minutes, then take a 10-minute break to do whatever it is people your age like to do. Then, rinse and repeat. It looks a little something like this:

Homework Time:

  • 45 minutes: Work on "1" assignments, starting with the absolute worst.
  • 10 minutes: Get a snack, play Pokemon Go!, surf Instagram
  • 45 minutes: Work on "1" assignments again. You know you didn't finish.
  • 10 minutes: Do some jumping jacks, dance the Macarena, polish your nails.
  • 45 minutes: Work on "2" assignments and maybe even finish with any 3s and 4s. Put everything in your backpack.

Completing your homework on time is a learned skill. It requires some discipline and not everyone is naturally disciplined. So, you have to practice checking that you have everything you need for homework when you are still at school, prioritizing your work, plunging into the assignments you loathe, and taking planned breaks. Isn't your grade worth it?

You bet it is. 

  • Organize Your Homework With Color Coded Supplies
  • How to Get Your Homework Done in College
  • Study Habits That Can Improve Grades and Performance
  • Homework Guidelines for Elementary and Middle School Teachers
  • Tips for Studying for a Midterm Exam
  • Essential Strategies to Help You Become an Outstanding Student
  • Top 10 Healthy Homework Habits
  • The Case for the Importance of Taking Notes
  • How to Deal With Late Work and Makeup Work
  • Top Tips for Succeeding in Statistics Class
  • Tips for Preparing for the New School Year
  • How to Succeed in Your Literature Class
  • Study Tips for Math Homework and Math Tests
  • 5 Tips to Help the Disorganized Student
  • 10 Ways to Impress a Teacher
  • 10 Ways to Be a Great Student

JLV College Counseling

10 powerful tips to complete your homework on time.

   Posted on May 18, 2018 by Jessica Velasco

   Leave a Comment

how to get assignments done on time

Do you have homework that you need to work on but can’t seem to get it done? Maybe you are having difficulty balancing between schoolwork, studies and your duties at home. Many teachers believe homework is a necessary evil.

But I guess most students would disagree. Procrastination is the number one factor that causes us to keep us from doing our homework. The following tips will help you stay on track with your assignments and help you ensure that you submit them on time:

We often put off tasks that seem challenging or tedious at first glance. The hardest part of doing your homework is starting. To overcome this, just take out the assignment and place it on the study table.

It will push you one step closer to getting the work done.

2. Have a Dedicated Study Area

To get any job done, you need to have an area created just for handling that matter. It’s the number one reason why most freelancers can’t get much work done if they work on their beds. Been there, done that. The area should be organized and conducive for you to deal with your homework.

3. Keep Away from Distractions

In this digital age, we can quickly access vast information, but it comes with the challenge of increased distractions. From getting notifications from your social media accounts to constantly be checking your email, it takes your focus away from your studies. Use apps that encourage concentration, e.g., StayFocusd. Switch off your phone and attend to the assignment.

4. Time Management

Set aside time each week to work on your homework. It should be when you are alert. Plan to use this set time, each day, to get any pending assignments done. Remember to prioritize by starting with the tasks that are due the soonest.

5. Start with The Toughest Assignment

We all have preferences. Sometimes you can’t wait to start the assignment, and other time, the thought of it could make you sick. Get the hardest assignment out of the way, first. When done, you will realize that the subsequent tasks are much easier to handle.

6. Break It Down

There will be a time when an assignment you love feels like it’s too much to handle. This dread may keep you from searching for the information that is needed. If it’s an essay, start with the outline. Break down the report into manageable parts and work on each, step by step.

7. Take Breaks

Just as you do when studying, you need to re-energize your brain and body. For most people, their concentration span is 45 minutes at most. Schedule the time to work, including breaks.

Work on the assignment for 45 minutes and takes breaks of 10 minutes, after each interval. You can do whatever during the breaks.

8. Create a Reward System

Having a reward system will motivate you to keep doing what you are doing. After working for two hours with the regular breaks, you can take a longer  break. Or you could watch one more episode of your favorite show. The reward doesn’t have to be something huge; it could even be a piece of your favorite candy.

9. Don’t Multitask

Handle each task one at a time. Doing too much at the same time will lower your productivity. And thus, you will spend more time on a job and usually that time will be more than you would have needed.

10. Get Help

Work on the school work independently. When necessary, get assistance from tutors, peers, family members, friends, etc. When students hand in assignments that they feel good about, it increases their self-esteem and confidence.

You can also consider getting a study buddy. They keep you updated on any missed work, and could provide useful resources to help you in your studies.

Say no more to handing in your homework late or always finding it difficult to start on your assignments. Instead, adopt the tips outlined above.

Share this:

  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
  • Click to print (Opens in new window)
  • Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)

 Category: Guest Post , Study Tips      Tags: Emma Singerson , Guest Blog , Guest Post , Study Tips

Leave a comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

JLV College Counseling is reader supported. When you purchase through links on the site, I may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more  here .

Follow Blog via Email

Enter your email address to follow this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address:

About Jessica

Buy me a coffee.

how to get assignments done on time

Book Pick of the Month

how to get assignments done on time

The link for the book is an affiliate link. You will not pay extra; however, I do receive a small reimbursement if you purchase through the links. Thank you for your support of JLV College Counseling.

how to get assignments done on time

Quick Links

Recent posts.

  • Scholarship Saturday – March 30, 2024
  • Scholarship Saturday – March 23, 2024
  • Scholarship Saturday – March 16, 2024

Contact Jessica

Stay connected.

  • View jlvcollegecounseling’s profile on Facebook
  • View admissions411’s profile on Twitter
  • View jlvcollegecounseling’s profile on Instagram
  • View admissions411’s profile on Pinterest
  • View velascojessica’s profile on LinkedIn

JLV College Counseling is reader supported. When you purchase through links on the site, I may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more  here .

Create a website or blog at WordPress.com

' src=

  • Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
  • Subscribe Subscribed
  • Copy shortlink
  • Report this content
  • View post in Reader
  • Manage subscriptions
  • Collapse this bar
  • Our Mission

Homework: Helping Students Manage their Time

Two simple strategies for guiding students to improve a crucial skill.

This is the second of two parts. Part one can be found here: Is Homework Helpful?: The 5 Questions Every Teacher Should Ask .

Teachers assign work each and every day, either in class or for homework. That is the easy part. Put it on the board, tell students to copy it down, and move on to the next item on the day’s agenda. But why don’t teachers help students figure out how much time to allot to assignments? How do students know if an assignment should take 10 minutes or 40?

It is a blind spot in my own teaching. I never realized until lately that I wasn’t supporting students with time management skills. I wasn’t developing their ability to assess an assignment and correctly evaluate how much time it should take. 

Why is this important? With good time management, students know how much time they have, how long it will take to get assignments done, and what they can accomplish in the time they have. This gives them more breathing room, which reduces the feeling of being rushed, which in turn leads to less frustration and stress.

Here are two ways to support students in understanding time management.

Do the assignment yourself.  See how long it takes you to complete the work. Then remember, you are the expert with this material. Ask yourself, how long would it take for a proficient student to complete it? What about students with disabilities, what might hinder their progress? Then provide students with a range of times. If you believe an assignment should take 15-25 minutes, let them know. The benefit of this is that it allows students to plan better. They can situate homework in the context of their entire day. A student may get home from school at 3:30 and has soccer practice at 5pm. He now knows that he can complete your homework in any 25-minute window between the end of the school day and the start of practice. The downside to this is that some students may lose confidence and doubt themselves if an assignment takes much longer than you suggested. 

Rate the assignment.  Classify assignments into three categories with time frames for each so that students know what type it is and how long it should take to complete. Here are three ways that I categorize assignments:

Quick checks:  These assignments are measuring sticks of understanding and they are short and sweet. I expect students to spend 20-50 seconds on each question on these types of assignments. A 20-question quick check should take 6-10 minutes.  

Thorough Responses:  When you want answer with more substance and more development, I look for thorough responses. These types of assignments are different than quick checks because I expect students to spend 2-4 minutes per question. Thorough responses typically have fewer questions consequently.Thorough response assignments take my students 20-35 minutes.

Sustained Thought:  When students must access new material, when there is challenging reading, or when they must chew on ideas before they formulate responses,  students can expect to spend 30-40 minutes to complete an assignment. 

This piece was originally submitted to our community forums by a reader. Due to audience interest, we’ve preserved it. The opinions expressed here are the writer’s own.

  • (800) 596-0724
  • Request Info

Sophia Sikowski

How to Stay on Top of Your Assignments in College

Your Opinion Matters: Tapping into the Potential of Testimonials

From Interview to Offer: Writing a Winning Follow-Up Email

From Interview to Offer: Writing a Winning Follow-Up Email

Maximize Your Student Experience: The Power of Participation

Maximize Your Student Experience: The Power of Participation

Negotiating 101: Four Tips to Navigate Nurse Compensation

Negotiating 101: Four Tips to Navigate Nurse Compensation

  • Scholarships
  • Nursing Programs
  • Campus Locations

Contact us to request more information

Opt-In to Receive SMS Messages

Get the latest news you need to know, from study hacks to interview tips to career advancement. Have it delivered right to your inbox biweekly.

US South Carolina

Recently viewed courses

Recently viewed.

Find Your Dream School

This site uses various technologies, as described in our Privacy Policy, for personalization, measuring website use/performance, and targeted advertising, which may include storing and sharing information about your site visit with third parties. By continuing to use this website you consent to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

   COVID-19 Update: To help students through this crisis, The Princeton Review will continue our "Enroll with Confidence" refund policies. For full details, please click here.

Enter your email to unlock an extra $25 off an SAT or ACT program!

By submitting my email address. i certify that i am 13 years of age or older, agree to recieve marketing email messages from the princeton review, and agree to terms of use., 8 easy ways to finish your homework faster.

Spend less time on homework

How many times have you found yourself still staring at your textbook around midnight (or later!) even when you started your homework hours earlier? Those lost hours could be explained by Parkinson’s Law, which states, “Work expands to fill the time available for its completion.” In other words, if you give yourself all night to memorize those geometry formulas for your quiz tomorrow, you’ll inevitably find that a 30 minute task has somehow filled your entire evening.

We know that you have more homework than ever. But even with lots and lots to do, a few tweaks to your study routine could help you spend less time getting more accomplished. Here are 8 steps to make Parkinson’s Law work to your advantage:

1. Make a list

This should be a list of everything that has to be done that evening. And we mean, everything—from re-reading notes from this morning’s history class to quizzing yourself on Spanish vocabulary.

2. Estimate the time needed for each item on your list

You can be a little ruthless here. However long you think a task will take, try shaving off 5 or 10 minutes. But, be realistic. You won’t magically become a speed reader.

Free SAT Practice Tests & Events

Evaluate and improve your SAT score.

3. Gather all your gear

Collect EVERYTHING you will need for the homework you are working on (like your laptop for writing assignments and pencils for problem sets). Getting up for supplies takes you off course and makes it that much harder to get back to your homework.

The constant blings and beeps from your devices can make it impossible to focus on what you are working on. Switch off or silence your phones and tablets, or leave them in another room until it’s time to take a tech break.

Read More: How to Calculate Your GPA

5. Time yourself

Noting how much time something actually takes will help you estimate better and plan your next study session.

6. Stay on task

If you’re fact checking online, it can be so easy to surf on over to a completely unrelated site. A better strategy is to note what information you need to find online, and do it all at once at the end of the study session.

7. Take plenty of breaks

Most of us need a break between subjects or to break up long stretches of studying. Active breaks are a great way to keep your energy up. Tech breaks can be an awesome way to combat the fear of missing out that might strike while you are buried in your work, but they also tend to stretch much longer than originally intended. Stick to a break schedule of 10 minutes or so.

8. Reward yourself! 

Finish early? If you had allocated 30 minutes for reading a biology chapter and it only took 20, you can apply those extra 10 minutes to a short break—or just move on to your next task. If you stay on track, you might breeze through your work quickly enough to catch up on some Netflix.

Our best piece of advice? Keep at it. The more you use this system, the easier it will become. You’ll be surprised by how much time you can shave off homework just by focusing and committing to a distraction-free study plan.

Stuck on homework?

Try an online tutoring session with one of our experts, and get homework help in 40+ subjects.

Try a Free Session

Explore Colleges For You

Explore Colleges For You

Connect with our featured colleges to find schools that both match your interests and are looking for students like you.

Career Quiz

Career Quiz

Take our short quiz to learn which is the right career for you.

Connect With College Coaches

Get Started on Athletic Scholarships & Recruiting!

Join athletes who were discovered, recruited & often received scholarships after connecting with NCSA's 42,000 strong network of coaches.

Best 389 Colleges

Best 389 Colleges

165,000 students rate everything from their professors to their campus social scene.

SAT Prep Courses

1400+ course, act prep courses, free sat practice test & events,  1-800-2review, free digital sat prep try our self-paced plus program - for free, get a 14 day trial.

how to get assignments done on time

Free MCAT Practice Test

Thank you! Look for the MCAT Review Guide in your inbox.

I already know my score.

how to get assignments done on time

Enrollment Advisor

1-800-2REVIEW (800-273-8439) ext. 1

1-877-LEARN-30

Mon-Fri 9AM-10PM ET

Sat-Sun 9AM-8PM ET

Student Support

1-800-2REVIEW (800-273-8439) ext. 2

Mon-Fri 9AM-9PM ET

Sat-Sun 8:30AM-5PM ET

Partnerships

  • Teach or Tutor for Us

College Readiness

International

Advertising

Affiliate/Other

  • Enrollment Terms & Conditions
  • Accessibility
  • Cigna Medical Transparency in Coverage

Register Book

Local Offices: Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM

  • SAT Subject Tests

Academic Subjects

  • Social Studies

Find the Right College

  • College Rankings
  • College Advice
  • Applying to College
  • Financial Aid

School & District Partnerships

  • Professional Development
  • Advice Articles
  • Private Tutoring
  • Mobile Apps
  • Local Offices
  • International Offices
  • Work for Us
  • Affiliate Program
  • Partner with Us
  • Advertise with Us
  • International Partnerships
  • Our Guarantees
  • Accessibility – Canada

Privacy Policy | CA Privacy Notice | Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information | Your Opt-Out Rights | Terms of Use | Site Map

©2024 TPR Education IP Holdings, LLC. All Rights Reserved. The Princeton Review is not affiliated with Princeton University

TPR Education, LLC (doing business as “The Princeton Review”) is controlled by Primavera Holdings Limited, a firm owned by Chinese nationals with a principal place of business in Hong Kong, China.

how to get assignments done on time

Suggestions

college deadlines

How to Stay Ahead of Deadlines on Your Academic Assignments

how to get assignments done on time

Completing your assignments and homework on time is instrumental to your final grades at school, because it shows that you can observe time and respect deadlines, and, as a student, it is important that you are able to complete your tasks on time.

However, sometimes it might be hard to keep time or submit your assignments on time. This article will give you tips that you can use to enable you stay on time when submitting your assignments .

1. Start Immediately

Immediately after you receive the assignment, start working on it. Starting immediately will help you stay focused throughout the assignment.

Starting the assignment early will help you eliminate the procrastinating that often leads to late submissions of assignments.

2. Plan Effectively

To effectively do your homework and assignments, you need to plan your time and work well. Make a list of all the things you need to do, because having a plan enables you to plan your time effectively. Also, make sure to set aside the amount of time you would want to spend on each of your assignment each day.

A good plan will enable you beat the deadline and submit your work on time. When planning how to handle the assignments, start with the most difficult ones or the most urgent ones. However, you need to be realistic about how you plan out your time.

3. Have a Quiet Study Area

Create a study area that is quiet and free from all the distractions.

Keep away anything that might draw your attention away from the work: switch off and keep the phones or tablets away; lock the door so that no one will be coming or leaving the room.

If social media is likely to distract you, block the sites using blocking applications.

4. Get Help

You and your classmates can help each other complete assignments by working as a group. It helps you handle the tough areas of the assignment and complete it on time. Additionally, you can get help from your tutors on the challenging parts of the assignment.

If your assignment is due soon and you cannot beat the deadline, seek help. You can hire an essay writing service to help you complete and submit your assignments on time. However, try to work on your academic assignments independently.

5. Avoid Multitasking

Because it is easier to do one assignment at a time, it is important to start by planning your work well. Handling more than one assignment will lower your concentration and productivity. You will spend more time on the assignment than you had anticipated.

6. Remember to Take Breaks

Take breaks in between the assignments to reenergize yourself. Working continuously for a long time causes brain fatigue, which lowers your concentration and affects the quality of your work. Reward yourself during these breaks.

The key to completing your assignments early and submitting on time is knowing the importance of the assignment in your studies. Take the assignments seriously, plan well and give them your best. You will not have to worry about missing the submission deadline.

Daniel Reed

Leave a reply.

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Related Posts

Three people stand against a backdrop of the open sky, dressed in black graduation gowns. The audience can clearly see their hair -- short and curly in buns on the far left, brown-blonde in the center, black and braided at the right -- and their caps, festooned with various pride flags representing different identities, such as trans or nonbinary.

Why College is the Perfect Time to Experiment with Gender

Person standing on staircase overlooking grey building, one being colorful with clouds on it.

Springtime Stuck Season

how to get assignments done on time

Read Between the Lines: The Problem With the Goodreads Challenge

how to get assignments done on time

How to Write an Essay: Tips From An English Major

For an article on the efficacy of a college degree, two figures look in opposite directions as a bowl with a degree and a price tag are set between them.

OPINION: Is a Degree Still Worth It?

For an article about budgeting in college, mixed-media collage of items. Someone sits staring off. A note pad with the words "budget" and "groceries." Receipts with totals.

5 Tips for Budgeting in College

how to get assignments done on time

How to Pick Your Early Decision School

In an article about roommate tips, a red hand shakes a blue hand in front of a blue bed and a red bed.

All About Roommates: Four Tips on Cohabitating in College Dorms

Don't miss.

how to get assignments done on time

Dark Cafes and Big Yellow Taxis—The Everlasting World of Joni Mitchell

Büşra Kayıkçı with pink lighting over her face and hands that are playing the piano.

Büşra Kayıkçı The Turkish Pianist Going ‘Places’

Women wearing Latine fashion with colorful filters.

Latine Streetwear Fashion: An Evergreen Vogue and Indigenous Resistance to Whiteness

An illustration of Bridgit Mendler standing in front of a 30th birthday cake

Bridgit Mendler: Where Is She Now?

For an article about sonification of space data, a person sits cross-legged with head phones on staring off. A blue background with musical notes around them.

By the Way, the Universe Is Always Singing

The Bookshelf

Exploring edtech and cognitive psychology.

  • NSF Funds Work on Flagging Bad Online Behavior
  • Testing AI Fairness in Predicting College Dropout Rate
  • Pandemic Lockdowns Boost, Democratize Online Education
  • Study Reveals Key Course Features that Draw Diverse Students
  • Study: No Single Solution Helps All Students Complete MOOCs

How to Ace Your College Assignments

College can be tough. You’re juggling classes, homework, a social life, and maybe a job on the side. It’s no wonder that sometimes your college assignments don’t get the attention they deserve. But did you know that there are tricks to acing your college assignments? Here are some tips and strategies that will help you get better grades in school!

For many students, college is a big learning curve. It’s a time in your life that involves a lot of change and getting used to many new things. When it comes to college assignments, many students find that things work differently from when they were in high school. The format and types of assessments are different, the criteria for passing can feel unfamiliar, and of course, the level of learning is a step up from high school too.

But getting good grades has a direct impact on your success at college, so it’s important to do as well as you can. So what can you do to get to grips with college assignments so you ace them? Here are some tips.

Read The Instructions

Start by reading the assignment instructions carefully. This may seem obvious, but it’s important to make sure you understand what the task is and what your lecturer or professor is looking for. If you’re unsure about anything, ask for clarification from your instructor. They are there to help you, so you should never feel unsure about going to ask for clarification, or for a little extra direction. You could even ask them what they’re looking for in order to give good grades. For example, is it more about research, or a good writing style? Any tips you can glean from the people marking your assignments will help.

Use Past Papers And Study Materials

When you have a better understanding of what’s required, it can be helpful to use past papers and college study materials to give yourself an idea of the sort of thing that might be expected. Study materials can also give you an idea of the level of detail required and the standard expected by your college. If you’re not sure where to find these things, ask your instructor or librarian for help. Getting hold of some of these past materials will help to give you a framework for your learning, understand the types of assignments your college sets, and what success looks like to them.

Create A Plan And Work Schedule

Once you have a good understanding of the task at hand and what’s expected of you, it’s time to create a plan. This should be a detailed document that outlines everything you need to do in order to complete the assignment to a high standard. Your plan should include a timeline and deadlines for each task, as well as what resources you’ll need and any other information that will help you to complete the assignment.

Work In Short Bursts

One of the best pieces of advice for college students is to work in short bursts . This means setting a timer for a certain amount of time and working on the task at hand for that amount of time, before taking a break. This method is often recommended for students because it’s a more effective way of working than trying to power through for hours on end. It’s also a lot easier to stay focused when you’re working in short bursts. When you take a break, make sure you get up and move around, have a snack, or do something to take your mind off of your work so you can come back refreshed and ready to focus again.

Take Regular Breaks

It’s important to take regular breaks when you’re working on an assignment. This will help to keep you from getting too bogged down in the task and will allow you to come back to it with fresh eyes. When you’re taking a break, make sure you get up and move around, have a snack, or do something to take your mind off of your work so you can come back refreshed and ready to focus again.

Set A Deadline For Yourself

As well as any deadlines set by your instructor, it can be helpful to set a deadline for yourself. This should be a date or time by which you will have completed the assignment. Having a personal deadline will help to keep you on track and motivated to get the work done.

Don’t Leave It To The Last Minute

One of the worst things you can do is leave your college assignment to the last minute. This will only lead to stress and will likely result in a rushed and poorly done piece of work. If you start the assignment early, you’ll have more time to do it properly and you’ll be less likely to make mistakes. It will also give you time to deal with any unexpected circumstances, such as some additional research you decide you need to do, or dealing with a cold that leaves you feeling under the weather for a few days.

Start With The Easy Stuff

When you’re starting an assignment, it can be helpful to start with the easy stuff. This will help to get you into the flow of working on the task and will give you a sense of accomplishment. Once you’ve completed the easy stuff, you can move on to the more challenging tasks. This will help you to stay focused and motivated, and will make the whole process less daunting.

About The Bookshelf

The Bookshelf was founded by a group of Cornell students with the goal of bringing together thought leaders in the field of Educational Technology (EdTech) and cognitive psychology.

If you have any questions about our blog, please get in touch !

Gradmode

Assignment Time Calculator to help meet Deadlines

Got an assignment deadline coming up?

Not sure how much free time you need to sacrifice to complete the work on time?

Here’s a handy calculator to estimate the time needed to complete an assignment within the given deadline.

Calculator for time needed to finish an assignment

To use this tool, please follow the instructions below.

  • The cells marked in yellow should be amended to suit your specific situation
  • Check whether your assignment has a word count allowance. If so, then you just need to meet the minimum end of the range when you’re pressed of time
  • An excellent writing speed would be about 600 words an hour
  • Medium would be around 350 words per hour
  • A slow writing speed implies roughly about 200 words an hour
  • Enter the deadline for the assignment in Month / Day / Year format

Tips to complete assignments on time

Cliché as it may be, the best advice to complete assignments by the deadline is to start in advance. Of course, this may not always be feasible but just trust us, your future self with be really grateful that you didn’t leave it until the last minute.

If you’re behind schedule, you’re going to want to make the most efficient use of whatever little time you have. However, even in such a situation, we highly recommend that you set aside a brief slot in your schedule to plan the structure of the assignment and what word count needs to go in each section that you have identified.

This will help you get a better idea of which sections are going to take up a bigger chunk of your time and you can use this to prioritize your available time accordingly.

We have a guide on how to make an assignment structure outline quickly using grading criteria . We also have another one on managing assignment word count .

Here’s another helpful guide from Purdue University with good suggestions for time management when it comes to assignments.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Privacy Overview

  • PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
  • EDIT Edit this Article
  • EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
  • Browse Articles
  • Learn Something New
  • Quizzes Hot
  • This Or That Game New
  • Train Your Brain
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
  • School Stuff
  • Managing Time During School Years

How to Buy More Time on an Overdue Assignment

Last Updated: March 28, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed. . Alexander Ruiz is an Educational Consultant and the Educational Director of Link Educational Institute, a tutoring business based in Claremont, California that provides customizable educational plans, subject and test prep tutoring, and college application consulting. With over a decade and a half of experience in the education industry, Alexander coaches students to increase their self-awareness and emotional intelligence while achieving skills and the goal of achieving skills and higher education. He holds a BA in Psychology from Florida International University and an MA in Education from Georgia Southern University. This article has been viewed 264,809 times.

Deadlines sneak up fast. If you’re short on time, you can always request an extension from your professor—your request may be based on real or fictionalized reasons. Alternatively, you could submit a corrupted file (a file your professor can’t open) and make the extension appear like an unintentional, happy accident.

Asking Your Teacher for an Extension

Step 1 Talk to your instructor in person.

  • If you're in college or graduate school, drop by your professor’s office hours.
  • If you're in high school or middle school, ask to speak to your teacher after class or set up a time to meet with them.
  • If you're making up an excuse, your professor might be able to see right through your lie. It might better to skip the face-to-face meeting and email them instead. [1] X Research source

Step 2 Explain the situation.

  • If you are struggling with depression and/or anxiety, don’t just say “I am overwhelmed.” Instead, explain how your mental health is affecting your ability to complete the assignment. “I’ve been struggling with depression all since midterms. I’ve learned that when I feel depressed, I have a very hard time focusing on my assignments. It has been very difficult for me to sit down a complete the paper.”
  • “Due to my financial situation, I had to start working this semester. My work schedule and class schedule are very demanding. I am struggling to manage both.”
  • "My parents are both working overtime right now. I have been watching my little siblings for them. I am having a hard time balancing school and my responsibilities at home"
  • "I am training for a big competition. My practices are going way longer than expected and by the time I get home I am too exhausted to do my work." [2] X Research source

Step 3 Ask for an extension.

  • “May I have the weekend to complete the assignment?”
  • “Can I have three days to finish my paper?” [3] X Research source

Step 4 Accept the instructor's response.

  • If they say “yes,” thank them profusely and work hard to meet your new deadline.
  • If they say “no,” thank them for their time and start working on the assignment as soon as you can.
  • If your teacher says “yes” but attaches a grade penalty, accept the grade penalty, thank them for the extension, and work diligently to meet your new deadline. [4] X Research source

Finding an Excuse

Step 1 Blame technology.

  • If you have to print out your paper, experiencing “printer problems” may grant you a few extra hours to work on the assignment.
  • If you typically store all of your work on a USB Drive, tell your teacher the thumb drive was stolen or misplaced. They may give you a few days to search for the missing drive. [5] X Research source

Step 2 Cite a lack of sources.

  • “I am taking the MCAT next month and have been studying for the test non-stop. As a result, the assignment for your class fell off my radar. May I have a few days to complete it?”
  • I am taking the SAT on Saturday and I really need to study for my Latin subject test. Can I have a few more days on my project?"
  • “I have three papers due at the same time. I am struggling to devote attention to each assignment. May I please have an extension so I can produce a paper I am proud of?” [6] X Research source

Step 4 Fake an emergency.

  • Be prepared for your professor to ask for proof or to look into your situation. [7] X Research source

Turning In a Corrupted File

Step 1 Create a new word document.

  • Professors and teachers are aware of this common trick. If you get caught, you may get a zero on the assignment and/or sent to the school's administrators. Before you consider this method, explore all of your other options and check your school's policies on the matter.

Step 2 Insert filler text.

  • You can copy and paste text from the internet, your rough draft, or even use an old paper.

Step 3 Save and name the document.

  • Name the document as your professor requested.
  • Save the file to your desktop.
  • Click Save .

Step 4 Corrupt the file with a free online service (Mac and Windows).

  • Navigate to [ Corrupt-A-File.net ].
  • Scroll down to “Select the file to corrupt” and select one of the following options: “From Your Device”, “From Dropbox”, or “From Google Drive”. If you saved the document on your desktop, click “From Your Device”.
  • Locate the file and click [[button|Select}} or Open .
  • Click Corrupt File . Once corrupted you will receive the following message: “Your file was dutifully corrupted”.
  • Click on the download button (black, downward pointing arrow).
  • Rename the document (if desired), change the location (if desired), and click Save .

Step 5 Corrupt your file manually (Windows only).

  • Right-click on the document’s icon, hover over “Open with” and select “Notepad”. A Notepad file will open. In addition to the filler text, you will see the document’s code (a jumble of letters, numbers, punctuation marks etc.).
  • Delete a portion of the code. Do not delete it all!
  • Press Ctrl + S and click Save . [8] X Research source

Step 6 Attempt to open the document.

  • Mac users will see a “Convert File” dialog box.
  • Windows users will see the message “The document name or path is not valid”. [9] X Research source

Step 7 Submit the corrupted file online and start working on your real assignment.

  • If your professor or teacher discovers you intentionally corrupted the file, you may get in serious trouble. Ask for an extension or simply submit what you have completed before you try this method. If you are doing online school just be sure to send an email explaining why and you can even make up a lie on why it wasn't turned in on time. Tell them you were stressed and had too much work to do so you forgot about it.

Community Q&A

Community Answer

  • Your professor has the right to say “no” when you ask for an extension. Be prepared for this response. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Tips from our Readers

  • Although students see lying as the best possible way to get an extension, it’s really not! Only lie as a last resort or when the teacher absolutely won’t offer an extension.
  • Try not to lie to your professors if you can help it. You may be kicked out of school for violations of the academic honesty policy or have other consequences.

how to get assignments done on time

  • Do not submit several corrupted files to the same professor. They will catch on. Thanks Helpful 15 Not Helpful 1

You Might Also Like

Be a Responsible Student

  • ↑ http://www.complex.com/pop-culture/2013/09/how-to-get-an-extenstion-on-a-paper/ask-in-person
  • ↑ http://www.complex.com/pop-culture/2013/09/how-to-get-an-extenstion-on-a-paper/plan-ahead
  • ↑ http://www.complex.com/pop-culture/2013/09/how-to-get-an-extenstion-on-a-paper/dont-ask-for-a-long-extension
  • ↑ http://www.ivoryresearch.com/how-to-get-an-assignment-essay-coursework-extension/
  • ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EgC-_9ZE5WA

About This Article

Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed.

If your assignment is overdue, you may be able to buy more time by asking for an extension. Talk to your teacher as soon as you can and go after class or during break when they’ll have time to listen to you. Explain specifically why you’ve fallen behind and ask if it’s possible to get an extension. For example, if you’ve been struggling with depression, you’ve had to work a job to help support your family, or you’ve had technical problems, your teacher might offer you some extra time to finish your assignment. Try not to take it personally if they say no, since the decision might be out of your teacher’s hands, and it might be unfair to other students. For more tips, including how to make a corrupted file to buy you time on your assignment, read on. Did this summary help you? Yes No

  • Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

James

Oct 12, 2017

Did this article help you?

Am I a Narcissist or an Empath Quiz

Featured Articles

See Who Views Your Facebook Profile

Trending Articles

What Is My Favorite Color Quiz

Watch Articles

Make Sticky Rice Using Regular Rice

  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info

wikiHow Tech Help Pro:

Develop the tech skills you need for work and life

Ways to Get Your Assignments Done on Time

license

Introduction: Ways to Get Your Assignments Done on Time

Ways to Get Your Assignments Done on Time

I decided to make this for the average college student who finds themselves forgetting to turn in an assignment on time at least once a week for one or two or their courses. I am not saying this is the end all be all way to ensure that all of your assignments get turned in on time but this is the strategey that has worked for me.

Step 1: Review Your Course Syllabus

Review Your Course Syllabus

  • Look at your course Syllabuses and pick out for assignment due dates and exams
  • Arrange all of those exams, quizzes, and assignment due dates on a calendar or planner (I use a desk calendar tacked to my bedroom wall)
  • This will give you a good idea at what you have to get done each week

Step 2: Think About Your TIME!

Think About Your TIME!

  • Look at your schedule for the term or semester
  • Think about your work and/or activities you may also be involved with and the time they take up
  • Plan around those times and see when/where you are able to complete your assignments

Step 3: Make Daily Lists

Make Daily Lists

  • With an idea of your free time each day in mind, make a list for each day and what goals you want to reach
  • This may be how much studying you want to get done for an upcoming exam, or a paper due the next day
  • This will allow you to know what you have to complete each day

Recommendations

Warm and Soothing Beeswax Salve

All Things Pi Contest

All Things Pi Contest

Remake It - Autodesk Design & Make - Student Contest

Remake It - Autodesk Design & Make - Student Contest

Made with AI - Autodesk Design & Make - Student Contest

Made with AI - Autodesk Design & Make - Student Contest

Classroom Q&A

With larry ferlazzo.

In this EdWeek blog, an experiment in knowledge-gathering, Ferlazzo will address readers’ questions on classroom management, ELL instruction, lesson planning, and other issues facing teachers. Send your questions to [email protected]. Read more from this blog.

Late Assignments: Tips From Educators on Managing Them

how to get assignments done on time

  • Share article

Today’s post finishes up a two-part series on how different teachers handle late student work.

‘Taking Late Work Can Be Challenging’

Ann Stiltner is a high school special education and reading teacher in Connecticut with more than 20 years of experience in education. She shares her passion and love for working in the classroom at her blog from Room A212 (www.annstiltner.com/blog). Follow her on Twitter @fromrooma212:

Being a special education teacher means most of my students have the IEP modification of extra time, which generally translates to time and a half. For a test a teacher gives a class one hour to do, my student would have 1½ hours. For a project the class had one week to complete, my student would have 11 days. However, even with this extra time, some of my spec. ed. students are not able to complete the work. With diagnoses such as ADHD, LD (Learning Disabilities), or anxiety, they find maintaining focus and accessing one-on-one support difficult to fit into these time constraints. Their motivation is unpredictable based on their mood, family challenges, or social drama.

Due to these factors, I have adopted a policy where I accept work from both regular and special education students at any time for full credit or I take points off for each day late depending on the circumstances and if that will motivate a student to finish.

I realize that taking late work can be challenging for teachers of 100-plus students. It means constantly updating your grade book and keeping track of papers. Some teachers don’t accept late work because they think a firm cutoff teaches students the importance of meeting deadlines. Even though I agree this is an important skill, I fear that some students won’t learn that lesson from a policy of not accepting work late. These students prefer to give up and forget about the assignment in order to feel a sense of control and protect themselves from failure. Getting a zero on an assignment does not make them rethink their decision to not do the work, since a zero to them doesn’t mean the same as it does to us teachers. To them, a zero is the grade they think they deserve based on their past experiences.

I have found a time limit gives students a reason to give up and not try. This is learned helplessness in action. My working definition of learned helplessness is a person’s lack of effort due to previous experiences which have taught them that making even the smallest effort won’t make a difference.

For many students, trying involves a large investment of cognitive effort and a huge risk to put themselves out there. They are not ready to set themselves up for what, they are sure, will make them feel like a failure and especially not in a setting where they might be bullied, yelled at, or insulted. If they do not feel safe and supported, they will not risk being teased by their classmates. This is the thinking behind my policy to accept late work at any time. I do not want my conditions and requirements to be used as an excuse for why they do not engage in my lesson and do the work.

This same philosophy explains why I provide supplies like writing utensils or computer chargers. I consciously decide not to create barriers for a student to complete work. I do not want to rob them of a chance to engage with the material, learn something new, experience deep thinking and feed their curiosity by dictating conditions that they can blame for not engaging in the work. Accepting an assignment late gives them time to get motivated or set up one-to-one support so they can focus on the work when they are ready. I do not want to distract students with rules concerning time limits, pen vs. pencil, or on paper vs. on computer.

Don’t get me wrong: I do have classroom rules and expectations. I want the focus in my class to be on what is most essential—learning. This approach means the student—and their parents—will have a hard time holding me responsible for their grade. The responsibility falls on the student and their choices. This open policy allows me to create rapport when I explain my belief in their ability to do the work and my dedication to provide them the support and necessary modifications to be successful. If and when a student is ready to engage in the work, make an effort and take a risk, I am ready.

iconsciously

‘A Balanced Approach’

Ruth Okoye, Ed.D., is a 30-year veteran educator. She has taught in private and public school settings and is passionate about literacy, educational technology, and ed-tech coaching. She currently serves as the K-12 director at a nonprofit organization:

As an ed-tech coach working with fellow educators in their journey of professional growth, handling assignment submissions beyond the designated due date is a nuanced process that reflects both practicality and a deep understanding of individual circumstances. The approach I adopt recognizes the unique challenges that my learners who are teachers face in their daily lives, and it aims to create an inclusive learning environment that supports their development while acknowledging the diverse contexts in which they operate.

My policy on due dates is rooted in the realization that a one-size-fits-all approach fails to account for the myriad of responsibilities and situations that learners encounter. Rather than rigidly adhering to stringent deadlines, I advocate a balanced approach that considers the academic integrity of assignments and the need for flexibility.

To strike this balance, I establish a preferred due date for assignments, considering the majority of learners and allowing them ample time to complete their work. This desired deadline also has a more concrete counterpart—a hard deadline—that offers a reasonable time frame for those genuinely committed to finishing their tasks. This dual-deadline structure allows proactive learners to demonstrate their dedication while acknowledging the potential challenges others may face.

For example, in a book study, there would be weekly assignments. The posted due dates would give the learners three weeks to get each assignment done. I would establish a hard deadline for all assignments two weeks after the study is completed. I’ve found that for a six- to eight-week book study, that allows ample time for a learner to deal with an external complication and then get back on track.

Of course, the purpose of the assignment plays a significant role in determining the flexibility of the due date. For instance, tasks geared toward in-class reflection, like exit tickets, maintain their original deadline as they serve an immediate and time-sensitive purpose. On the other hand, assignments designed to assess learners’ application of covered material need a more lenient approach, allowing participants the time to digest the content and apply it effectively.

I also believe in allowing learners ample time to attempt tasks and even granting multiple opportunities for submission. This practice is grounded in the understanding that the learning process is not linear, and different individuals require varying duration to internalize and implement new concepts. By granting extensions and multiple tries, I encourage a growth mindset and empower learners to engage more deeply with the subject.

One of the cornerstones of my policy is the recognition that external factors beyond the learning experience can impact a learner’s ability to meet deadlines. Illness, family emergencies, or resource constraints can hinder progress, and rigid due dates should not serve as barriers to measuring their ability to apply course concepts. Instead of penalizing them for circumstances beyond their control, I aim to evaluate their understanding of the material and capacity to use it effectively, irrespective of external hindrances.

So you can see, my approach to handling late submissions from learners revolves around flexibility, empathy, and practicality. By acknowledging the diverse challenges teachers face and tailoring due dates to the purpose of assignments, I create an environment that fosters deep learning, personal growth, and a commitment to the subject matter. This policy recognizes the unique circumstances of each learner. It underscores the overarching goal of professional learning—to nurture and support the development of capable and resilient professionals in education.

externalfactors

What Is the Goal?

Jessica Fernandez is a full-time high school teacher and instructional coach near Chicago who specializes in teaching multilingual English learners and in supporting colleagues to make small language shifts that will benefit all learners:

Fortunately, my high school freshman English PLC has decided to have two categories: formative (anything at all that is practice), which is weighted 10 percent, and summative, which is weighted 90 percent. Since the purpose of formative tasks is to practice a skill they will later demonstrate, late work is accepted until we complete the summative demonstration for that skill. Afterward, there’s not so much of a point, plus it would drive us crazy and make work-life balance tough.

The goal, after all, is to give frequent and prompt feedback so kids can improve before their final summative demonstration. Late points are more of what we used to call “habits of work”; important soft skills, yes, but for our purposes, if the kid practiced for their summative skill demonstration, I’m happy, and I’m not scoring them on timeliness. Who knows what they had going on? I’ve gotten grace, and 10 percent won’t make or break their grade anyway.

whoknows

Thanks to Ann, Ruth, and Jessica for contributing their thoughts!

Today’s post responded to this question:

How do you handle students turning in work after the due date, and why do you apply that policy?

In Part One , Chandra Shaw, Stephen Katzel, and Kelly Owens contributed their ideas.

Consider contributing a question to be answered in a future post. You can send one to me at [email protected] . When you send it in, let me know if I can use your real name if it’s selected or if you’d prefer remaining anonymous and have a pseudonym in mind.

You can also contact me on Twitter at @Larryferlazzo .

Just a reminder; you can subscribe and receive updates from this blog via email . And if you missed any of the highlights from the first 12 years of this blog, you can see a categorized list here .

The opinions expressed in Classroom Q&A With Larry Ferlazzo are strictly those of the author(s) and do not reflect the opinions or endorsement of Editorial Projects in Education, or any of its publications.

Sign Up for EdWeek Update

Edweek top school jobs.

Tight cropped photo of a young professional male using a smartphone which is illuminated with floating social media icons above.

Sign Up & Sign In

module image 9

  • CBSSports.com
  • Fanatics Sportsbook
  • CBS Sports Home
  • NCAA Tournament
  • W. Tournament
  • Champions League
  • Motor Sports
  • High School
  • Horse Racing 

mens-brackets-180x100.jpg

Men's Brackets

womens-brackets-180x100.jpg

Women's Brackets

Fantasy Baseball

Fantasy football, football pick'em, college pick'em, fantasy basketball, fantasy hockey, franchise games, 24/7 sports news network.

cbs-sports-hq-watch-dropdown.jpg

  • CBS Sports Golazo Network
  • March Madness Live
  • PGA Tour on CBS
  • UEFA Champions League
  • UEFA Europa League
  • Italian Serie A
  • Watch CBS Sports Network
  • TV Shows & Listings

The Early Edge

201120-early-edge-logo-square.jpg

A Daily SportsLine Betting Podcast

With the First Pick

wtfp-logo-01.png

NFL Draft is coming up!

  • Podcasts Home
  • Eye On College Basketball
  • The First Cut Golf
  • NFL Pick Six
  • Cover 3 College Football
  • Fantasy Football Today
  • My Teams Organize / See All Teams Help Account Settings Log Out

2024 March Madness TV schedule: How to watch the NCAA Tournament, announcers, Final Four times, live stream

The complete television and streaming schedule for how to watch march madness 2024.

usatsi-20244677-1.jpg

All that's left is the Final Four of the 2024 NCAA Tournament as we inch closer to crowning a national champion in men's college basketball. After starting with 68 teams just 13 days ago on Selection Sunday, only four remain with three games left until a champion is determined.

Though the top eight teams in the nation entering the Big Dance were all still alive entering the Sweet 16 for just the fifth time since the NCAA Tournament expanded to 64 teams in 1985, only two of them remain. On Saturday, No. 1 seed UConn ran through No. 3 seed Illinois on its way to a 77-52 victory, while No. 1 seed Purdue won a hard-fought battle 72-66 over No. 2 seed Tennessee on Sunday.

Joining them in the Final Four is No. 4 seed Alabama, which won 89-82 over football rivalry No. 6 seed Clemson, and No. 11 seed NC State -- the Cinderella of this affair -- after a 76-64 come-from-behind win over ACC rival No. 4 seed Duke.

Veteran Ian Eagle steps in as the lead play-by-play announcer for the Final Four, replacing the legendary Jim Nantz, who stepped away in 2023. Eagle will lead mainstays Bill Raftery, Grant Hill and reporter Tracy Wolfson on the top announcing team.

For the entire 2024 NCAA Tournament, CBS and TBS are leading the way primarily televising 21 games apiece, while truTV and TNT carried 13 and 12, respectively. The Final Four will simulcast across TBS and TNT. You can also watch the final three games of the NCAA Tournament on the  March Madness Live app  and on Max's B/R Sports Add-On.

From the Selection Show all the way until the playing of "One Shining Moment" after a champion is crowned, CBS Sports and TNT Sports will be bringing you the magic.

Let's take a look at the 2024 March Madness announcing teams as well as the remaining schedule for the 2024 NCAA Tournament.

2024 March Madness announcing teams

Play-by-Play | Analyst(s) || Reporter * Regional Weekend announce teams

  • Ian Eagle | Bill Raftery, Grant Hill || Tracy Wolfson*
  • Brian Anderson | Jim Jackson || Allie LaForce*
  • Kevin Harlan | Dan Bonner, Stan Van Gundy || Andy Katz*
  • Andrew Catalon | Steve Lappas || Evan Washburn*
  • Lisa Byington | Steve Smith, Robbie Hummel || Lauren Shehadi
  • Spero Dedes | Jim Spanarkel || Jon Rothstein
  • Tom McCarthy | Deb Antonelli, Avery Johnson || AJ Ross
  • Brad Nessler | Brendan Haywood || Dana Jacobson

2024 NCAA Tournament schedule, dates

Saturday, April 6 State Farm Stadium -- Glendale, Arizona

National Championship

Monday, April 8 -- 9:20 p.m. (TBS / TNT) State Farm Stadium -- Glendale, Arizona

Our Latest College Basketball Stories

NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament   - Final Four - Previews

Buzz surrounds NC State's Burns at Final Four

Kyle boone • 4 min read.

National Invitational Tournament

Seton Hall rallies late to Indiana State for NIT title

Cameron salerno • 1 min read, saint louis expected to hire indiana state's schertz, matt norlander • 1 min read.

gettyimages-2131485574-1-1.jpg

Report: LSU's Hailey Van Lith entering transfer portal

Isabel gonzalez • 1 min read.

usatsi-22774598-1.jpg

Tracking Bronny James' NBA Draft decision

Cameron salerno • 7 min read.

Ohio State v Michigan State

Coaching tracker: Lutz leaving WKU for Oklahoma State

Matt norlander • 21 min read, share video.

how to get assignments done on time

2024 NCAA Tournament: How to watch live, TV tip times

how to get assignments done on time

CBS Sports Player of the Year: Edey repeats

how to get assignments done on time

CBS Sports All-America teams

how to get assignments done on time

How Hurley started Oats' Final Four path

how to get assignments done on time

Why NCAA is pushing to ban prop bets

how to get assignments done on time

Critical offseason on horizon for UConn

how to get assignments done on time

USC poaches Arkansas' Musselman as next coach

how to get assignments done on time

Plane issues delay UConn's arrival to Final Four

IMAGES

  1. HOW TO COMPLETE YOUR ASSIGNMENTS ON TIME?

    how to get assignments done on time

  2. 8 Useful Tips To Complete Your Assignments On Time

    how to get assignments done on time

  3. 5 Tips and Tricks to Get Your Assignments Done Fast

    how to get assignments done on time

  4. 5 Tips and Tricks to Get Your Assignments Done Fast

    how to get assignments done on time

  5. PPT

    how to get assignments done on time

  6. Five Ways to Turn Assignments in on Time

    how to get assignments done on time

VIDEO

  1. I never get assignments done on time 🥲🥲 #fyp

  2. (AC-S13) Week 13

  3. One minute training

  4. Episode 9??: Waiting for Takeoff

  5. "Po"(Shrek) Part 17-Heading to DuLoc (My Beloved Monster and Me)

  6. Lets get some assignments done! DEEP ROCK GALACTIC LIVE!

COMMENTS

  1. How To Get Your College Assignments Done On Time

    Try the Pomodoro technique: decide which task are you going to work on and set the timer to 25 minutes; after this period of time, you are allowed to take a short break (3-5 minutes). Repeat this four times and you'll get 1 hour of pure productive work. Afterward, take a larger break of 15-30 minutes and then repeat the whole cycle.

  2. How to Focus on Homework to Get It Done on Time

    Tip #2: Divide a Homework Assignment into Manageable Tasks. Break your school assignment down into smaller tasks. Make a list of what needs to be done for that particular assignment, set priorities to focus on, and start at the top of your list. Many times, a written project will require some library research.

  3. Assignments Hacks: 8 Tips to Get It Done Faster

    Keep Yourself Hydrated—and Well-Fed. Nutrition is highly important while you're at college. In a rush to get things done, many slack off on the most important thing—their wellbeing. To keep your energy levels high and remain focused on the work, have some brain food handy for snacks, and hydrate regularly.

  4. 5 Ways to Do Your Homework on Time if You're a Procrastinator

    Take the time to organize your notes and files. [1] Keep one binder or file folder for each class, and put your notes and assignments in chronological order. [2] 2. Write your assignment due dates in a planner. Go through your class schedule or syllabus and record every due date in a planner.

  5. How to Do Homework: 15 Expert Tips and Tricks

    You finish one episode, then decide to watch another even though you've got SAT studying to do. It's just more fun to watch people make scones. D. Start the episode, but only catch bits and pieces of it because you're reading Twitter, cleaning out your backpack, and eating a snack at the same time. 5.

  6. 3 Ways to Get Your Homework Done Fast

    Every 25 minutes or so, take about 5 minutes to stretch and walk around to give your brain and body a quick rest. [11] 2. Eat snacks and drink water. Drink plenty of water and eat light, healthy, tasty snacks while you work to enjoy foods that you like, enhance your memory, and revitalize your brain and body.

  7. 4 Tips for Completing Your Homework On Time

    10 minutes: Do some jumping jacks, dance the Macarena, polish your nails. 45 minutes: Work on "2" assignments and maybe even finish with any 3s and 4s. Put everything in your backpack. Completing your homework on time is a learned skill. It requires some discipline and not everyone is naturally disciplined.

  8. 4 Tips To Help You Complete Online Assignments On Time

    1. Create A Time Table. At least a week before the official commencement of class, a course outline is usually posted in the course area. This course outline gives the assignments for each week. Get a head start by reviewing the eLearning course outline, a day or two prior, instead of waiting until class begins.

  9. How to Submit Assignments on Time

    Whatever your preference, we recommend creating a calendar to help you submit assignments on time. You may even consider using both to ensure that your work gets done. 2. Create (and Stick to) a Schedule. Creating a schedule is one of the best ways to stay on track in your courses.

  10. 10 Powerful Tips to Complete Your Homework on Time

    Switch off your phone and attend to the assignment. 4. Time Management. Set aside time each week to work on your homework. It should be when you are alert. Plan to use this set time, each day, to get any pending assignments done. Remember to prioritize by starting with the tasks that are due the soonest. 5.

  11. Helping K-12 Students Manage their Time

    Then provide students with a range of times. If you believe an assignment should take 15-25 minutes, let them know. The benefit of this is that it allows students to plan better. They can situate homework in the context of their entire day. A student may get home from school at 3:30 and has soccer practice at 5pm.

  12. Get it done: The Importance of Completing Assignments on Time

    Getting work done on time helps reduce stress and anxiety levels too. Procrastination and last-minute rushes can lead to heightened stress, negatively impacting the quality of work and overall well-being. When assignments are completed on time, students can approach their tasks with a clear mind, devote adequate attention to detail, and produce ...

  13. 10 Useful Tips for Students to Submit Assignments on Time

    6. Manage your time effectively. Effective time management is necessary in order to turn in an assignment timely. When writing an assignment, make sure to allocate your time wisely and prioritize tasks based on their importance and urgency. This step can also help improve the quality of the final product.

  14. How to Stay on Top of Your Assignments in College

    Forming a study group is another way to reduce procrastination and better prepare for your exams. 8.) Take breaks. The final and most important tip is to make sure you fit in some time to relax among all the hustle and bustle of college. Taking short breaks between assignments can be a great way to avoid burnout.

  15. 14 Proven Tips For Completing Assignments

    10. Take breaks when completing assignments. Working on an assignment for long periods of time can be overwhelming and lead to burnout. To avoid this, take breaks throughout the day or week. during your break, do something that you enjoy or that will help you relax. 11. Celebrate your progress.

  16. 8 Easy Ways to Finish Homework Faster

    Evaluate and improve your SAT score. 3. Gather all your gear. Collect EVERYTHING you will need for the homework you are working on (like your laptop for writing assignments and pencils for problem sets). Getting up for supplies takes you off course and makes it that much harder to get back to your homework. 4.

  17. How to Stay Ahead of Deadlines on Your Academic Assignments

    Starting the assignment early will help you eliminate the procrastinating that often leads to late submissions of assignments. 2. Plan Effectively. To effectively do your homework and assignments, you need to plan your time and work well. Make a list of all the things you need to do, because having a plan enables you to plan your time effectively.

  18. How to Ace Your College Assignments

    Create A Plan And Work Schedule. Once you have a good understanding of the task at hand and what's expected of you, it's time to create a plan. This should be a detailed document that outlines everything you need to do in order to complete the assignment to a high standard. Your plan should include a timeline and deadlines for each task, as ...

  19. Assignment Time Calculator to help meet Deadlines

    If so, then you just need to meet the minimum end of the range when you're pressed of time. Select your average writing speed. An excellent writing speed would be about 600 words an hour. Medium would be around 350 words per hour. A slow writing speed implies roughly about 200 words an hour. Enter the deadline for the assignment in Month ...

  20. 3 Ways to Buy More Time on an Overdue Assignment

    3. Save and name the document. Once the filler text is in place, bring up the "Save As" dialog box with the shortcut ⌘ Command + S for Mac or Ctrl + S for Windows. Name the document as your professor requested. Save the file to your desktop. Click Save. 4. Corrupt the file with a free online service (Mac and Windows).

  21. Ways to Get Your Assignments Done on Time

    Step 1: Review Your Course Syllabus. Look at your course Syllabuses and pick out for assignment due dates and exams. Arrange all of those exams, quizzes, and assignment due dates on a calendar or planner (I use a desk calendar tacked to my bedroom wall) This will give you a good idea at what you have to get done each week.

  22. PDF Task Management: How To Get Your College Assignments Done On Time

    a clear overview of the assignments ahead helps you organize your time more effectively. Of course, it is important to be realistic when assessing the time you need for a certain assignment. There is no shame in asking for help or joining some of the study groups in order to survive the exam week and get motivated to make the most of your time.

  23. Tips for time management in college

    The biggest piece of advice I have for time management is to keep track of everything in one place. Personally, I use my iPhone calendar for this, but Google calendar or different calendar apps are another option. I also utilize the Canvas to-do list on the mobile app. This feature lays out class assignments in chronological order by due date.

  24. Late Assignments: Tips From Educators on Managing Them

    Accepting an assignment late gives them time to get motivated or set up one-to-one support so they can focus on the work when they are ready. I do not want to distract students with rules ...

  25. 2024 March Madness TV schedule: How to watch the NCAA Tournament

    From the Selection Show all the way until the playing of "One Shining Moment" after a champion is crowned, CBS Sports and TNT Sports will be bringing you the magic.