As someone who has spent an average of 1.7 years working on each of the three online courses (Music Appreciation, Health and Personal Finance) at KHS, I think I am obviously the perfect candidate to give advice on online classes. So, here’s some reliable advice on online classes from an unreliable source (aka all of the things I didn’t do):

5. Utilize the due dates next to your assignments: The dates are there as guidelines, so there’s no real penalty for ignoring them, but treat them like they aren’t just a suggestion. This way you can not only stay on track with your chosen class, but you can also feel more accountable. It’s easy for all the work to pile up, and before you know it you’re rushing to complete four units the day before the end of the semester.

4. Make completing assignment part of your daily routine: We all know these classes aren’t difficult and ignoring your growing pile of assignments is only refining your ability to procrastinate, and (for seniors) feeding your senioritis. Try taking 10 minutes out of your day to complete an assignment. Incorporate online classes into your nighttime routine alongside brushing your teeth or washing your face.

3. See this as an opportunity to develop time management skills: If I had done this I probably wouldn’t feel the need to write this article. Seriously. Saying it’s taken you two years to complete Personal Finance is funny until you aren’t able to graduate. Nagging about time-management skills is annoying, but having them could mean the difference between getting your diploma or being a super senior, and that’s gotta count for something. And, if you do find yourself cramming like I did to finish before graduation, here’s some convenient mac & cheese places to help get you through these trying times.

2. Ask Mr. Kelly about the answers you missed on quizzes: While you’re taking this class mainly because it’s a required class, still take the time to find out what you’re missing on your quizzes. It helps you not miss the same questions on tests and you come out of the class knowing at least a little bit about the topic.

And finally, my number one tip:

1. Don’t take an online class: Again, I’ve spent an average of 1.7 years on classes that shouldn’t take longer than a month. Make room for it in your schedule. I promise, you don’t need that IP as badly as you think you do.