Let's get back on track together!
If you have fallen behind in your coursework and course readings, don’t despair. Here’s a five-step strategy for catching up on coursework. By implementing these strategies and maintaining a positive outlook, you’ll be caught up on that overdue coursework in no time!
1. Make the big list
Set aside some time to look over your course syllabi. Create a list of:
Any overdue assignments you still need to complete. Any course materials you still need to read. All upcoming course readings and
assignments for the rest of the term. This is your Big List — everything you need to finish before the term ends.
2. Evaluate the big list
Consider the assignment’s purpose and place in the course:
Stay on top of current coursework—Identify what’s due soon and make sure you’re keeping up to avoid feeling as though you are out-of-step with your classmates
Focus on high-priority overdue work—Spot the overdue assignments that are worth the most points and plan to work on those first. Make time to review any related course material
3. Combine
Mix your current coursework with high-stake overdue assignments
Use your list to create a plan that balances current coursework with the most heavily weighted overdue assignments. Use backwards planning: figure out when each task is due, and plan backwards from the deadline to make steady progress on both.
4. Find balance
Fit in time for lower-stakes assignments
Once you have created a reasonable time-management plan for keeping on top of current assignments while steadily chipping away at higher-stake overdue assignments, look for smaller windows of time to tackle lower-stake assignments. Focus first on those that are worth the most. If you run out of time, you may have to let go of some lower-value tasks (*if not a compulsory requirement for course completion).
5. Schedule
Plan your tasks according to relative worth and difficulty
Do your most difficult or higher-stake assignments when you feel most awake, focused and prepared to undertake challenging work.
Keep easier or lower-stake assignments for times when you feel sleepy, sluggish, or least able to tackle challenging work.
Build in small rewards to keep yourself motivated and celebrate the completion of your goals.
5. Schedule
Check out more helpful resources on UVicLearn!
Navigating overwhelm as a first-year university student
Some key strategies for managing overwhelm as a first-year student include determining course expectations, creating a balanced schedule, attending course lectures, and reviewing course materials.
Sharpen your goal-setting to maximize your study time
Would you like to accomplish more during your studying time? Would you like to feel confident that you are making progress in your studies? Read this article to find out how to set learning goals to maximize your study time.
Choosing what’s important at crunch times
Determining what should be at the top of your list is especially challenging at the busiest time of the term when everything feels urgent. Taking a moment to take stock of priorities will help you schedule and complete critical assignments.
To learn more about this topic and to get help
Book a free in-person or online appointment with an academic skills advisor at the Academic Skills Centre!