How to do Well in Online Classes (+ the surprising benefits!)

Some may love online classes, and some may absolutely dread them.  Whatever your opinion, these tips for online classes are sure to help you out! 

I know you’re probably wondering what makes my tips so special. Well, it all started in high school when I was introduced to this thing called dual enrollment. Basically, high school students were given the opportunity to take college classes while still in high school. Super cool!

But… I was a very busy girl in high school. I was in multiple organizations, honor societies, I was on the Varsity cheer team, plus more! However, I was NOT about to miss this amazing opportunity! I decided to opt for online classes instead, and I’ve never regretted it since.

So let’s just say I’ve taken PLENTY of online courses throughout my many years as a student. I know all of the ins and outs, and I definitely know how to do well in online classes. And I’m not one for secrets, so I’ll show you how you can master them too! 

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Related: Simple Tips To Succeed in College

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Benefits of Taking Online Classes

Before we dive into some of the tips for online classes, I’ll go over some benefits of taking online classes. And, although the thought of taking an online class can be daunting to some, virtual education can actually be pretty darn cool! 

1. You’re working on your own schedule. Goodbye to the strict college schedules with back to back classes. You now have the freedom to determine when and how you’re going to get your work done. A blessing and a curse really.
2. There are TONS of online resources, whether it’s Khan Academy, Grammarly (which I love), or even just Google. Nowadays, there are so many resources at our disposal.
3. You can practically learn at your own pace. In face to face classes, I tend to find myself being overwhelmed by the constant stream of topics, and dues dates. But, I’ve noticed due dates typically stay consistent in online classes. This gives you so much time to actually learn and absorb the information.

How to do Well in Online Classes

Now that you’re feeling less intimidated about online classes here are some tips to succeed.

Get Ready for the Day

Well, first things first. You have to get dressed! Take off those PJs and throw on some new clothes! If you stay in your pajamas all day, you’re more likely to go back into relaxation mode. We want to remove the temptation to cozy up back in your bed. So put on some clothes that fuel your productivity, rather than staying in clothes that suck it up!

Do things that make you feel ready to tackle your day. Whether that’s an energizing morning routine, putting on your favorite makeup, or easing into the day with some music. Find things to do BEFORE you start the online classes that make you feel ready to tackle your classes!

Have a study space

It’s so important to have a dedicated space where you can concentrate and get your work done. It may be the library, a coffee shop, or even your kitchen table! 

Switch it up

Although it is important to have a dedicated study space and organizational plan, be sure to switch it up every now and then. Sometimes repetition can be boring, and can cause you to feel unmotivated.

Be sure to switch up your study locations or schedule. If you normally get straight to work in the morning, try doing some work in the afternoon if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Remember to give yourself a little wiggle room.

Make emails your best friend

Since the professors aren’t seeing you face to face, emails are professors’ primary form of contact. They usually send out due dates, reminders, or maybe even extra credit opportunities through email. 

It can be so easy to miss assignments since no one is drilling due dates in your head each lecture. So I’d recommend checking emails at least once every 24 hours. 

Use your resources

• Grammarly: I use Grammarly’s FREE automated proofreader to check punctuation, spelling, or other grammar mistakes on my school assignments. I also love Grammarly because it detects plagiarism, which is a BIG no-no when it comes to school.
• Online library database: Most schools have databases full of scholarly articles and research. Definitely use this to your advantage. Plus, it makes citing your sources way easier.
• Tutor services: Whether it’s online tutor or tutoring through your school. Don’t be afraid to ask for help! It’s better to know the material and be safe than to be sorry.
• Google Drive: You’ll probably be downloading a lot of documents on your computer. Instead of taking up the storage space on your computer, try using Google Drive to keep your storage space, plus your documents will be nice and organized. 

Check out Grammarly here

Make a weekly plan

Usually, online classes will have the same due dates each week. In fact, the online class I took this past summer had a discussion board due Wednesday, and an assignment due Sunday. It was so easy for me to know what I had due since the due dates were consistent.

Definitely, try writing down your classes’ schedules each week. I also like to keep myself on track by having my syllabi written down in my planner. I discuss more planning in my post, Simple Tips to Succeed in College.

Actually, read the material

I know, I know textbooks can be such a bore. But not all professors will send pre-recorded lectures or PowerPoints. With online classes, it’s your responsibility to learn.

Taking the time to get in touch with the course material through reading and taking notes helps so much when taking online courses. It’s especially great when timed quizzes pop up on the schedule.  

Follow

Points to remember 

• Don’t underestimate the course load. Sometimes (depending on work ethic), it can be easy to think that online courses are not the same workload as in-class lectures.
• If you need help, ask! Reach out to your professors, they’re there to help you! 
• Don’t feel defeated if you don’t understand the material. Use your resources, take a breath and try again.

Online classes don’t have to be stressful. I’ve taken plenty, and with the right work ethic and structure, you can definitely do great! You can do just as great in virtual classes as in face to face classes. I hope these tips for online classes will help you get the motivation you need to do your best work!

xo, Katie

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