Courses & Academics

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Courses & Academics

8 Tips to Get Through General Education Courses

Many undergrads dread gen ed requirements. Our tips and strategies can help you survive gen eds while getting the most out of them.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: Is It Ever OK to Skip a Class?

Every college student skips class. But is it ever OK? A college professor weighs in on good reasons to miss class and how to minimize the consequences.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Can You Take Graduate Courses as an Undergrad? Should You?

Most universities let undergrads enroll in graduate classes. Learn more about the benefits of taking grad classes and how to prepare for your first graduate course.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: How to Ask Your Professor for Research

Research experience can boost your grad school apps and job prospects. Learn how to ask a professor about research opportunities and positions.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Does Your GPA Matter in College?

Many students are unsure whether their GPA matters during and after college. Read on to learn when your college GPA is important.

Kim-Ling Sun

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Courses & Academics

What Are Night Classes? 6 Tips to Help You Succeed

Heading to class in the evening poses unique challenges for students. Learn the small changes you can make to succeed in your night classes.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

How to Choose Your College Professors

Some find it taxing to choose the right professors for their classes. Follow these tips on finding the right professor for your learning style.

Kim-Ling Sun

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Courses & Academics

10 Best Online Websites and Resources for Academic Research

Looking for reliable academic sources online can be a challenge. These online resources will help you find credible sources for your academic research.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: What to Do If You’ve Been Expelled From College

What can get you expelled from college? And what can you do after being expelled? A college professor explains your options when facing expulsion.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Are Summer Language Immersion Programs Worth It?

Summer language institutes pack a year of college courses into two months. Learn about the pros and cons of summer language immersion programs.

Anne Dennon

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Courses & Academics

Hand Cramping Up? Try This Professor’s Top 4 Digital Note-Taking Tools

Digital notes can help you stay organized and easily access information when you need it. Here, a professor introduces her top digital note-taking tools.

Dr. Samantha Fecich

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Courses & Academics

What Is a Syllabus?

Instructors must provide a syllabus. But what is a syllabus exactly? Learn about the parts of a syllabus and how it can help you succeed in class.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Should You Take Morning, Afternoon, or Evening Classes?

It can be challenging to create the perfect college schedule, but it can be done! Follow these quick tips to help optimize your academic potential.

Kim-Ling Sun

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Courses & Academics

AP African American Studies Pilot Introduces Diverse Changes

The College Board launched the AP African American Studies pilot program this fall. Learn why this diversity initiative is critical for students.

Bernard Grant, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: How to Survive and Succeed in Early Morning College Classes

Those 8 a.m. classes can be brutal. Here are a professor's tips for surviving and even thriving in your early morning college classes.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

How to Register for College Classes: 5 Essential Tips

Making a backup plan for class registration is essential, especially as a first-year or transfer student. Here's how to sign up for college classes.

Sharon Wilfong

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Courses & Academics

A Professor’s Top 6 Study Tips for Adult Learners

Struggling to balance your college education with other responsibilities like a job and childcare? Read a professor's top study tips for adult learners.

Samantha L. Solomon, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

What Is the National Honor Society?

The National Honor Society recognizes outstanding high schoolers and awards $2 million in scholarships annually. Learn more about the benefits of joining the National Honor Society.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

How to Write a Dissertation: Step-by-Step Guide

Doctoral students write dissertations to earn their degrees. But what is a dissertation, and how do you write one? Check out our step-by-step guide.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

The 11 Most Unique College Courses

Choosing the right college courses can make or break your semester. Discover some of the most unique college courses here.

Christina Payne

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Courses & Academics

Is a JD-MBA Program Right for Me?

Both law and business students hope to earn a degree that will help them stand out. Learn if a JD-MBA program is right for you.

Emily Gillespie-Lord

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: How to Get the Most Out of a University Library

Many students never visit the campus library. Here's everything you're missing out on, plus tips on how to get the most out of your university library.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

A Professor’s Top 5 Time Management Tips for College Students

Learners must balance coursework, a social life, and family commitments. A professor shares her top time management tips for college students.

Dr. Samantha Fecich

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Courses & Academics

How to Stop Procrastinating in College: 7 Essential Tips

Nearly every student procrastinates on schoolwork at some point. Learn how to stop putting off assignments and create better study habits with these tips.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

What Is Academic Probation and How Can You Avoid It?

Academic probation can happen if your grades drop, putting your college future at risk. Learn about academic probation and how to avoid it.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

How to Avoid Plagiarism: A Professor’s Top 9 Tips

Worried about accidentally plagiarizing on an assignment? A professor shares nine easy tips to avoid plagiarism — and what to do if you find it.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: How to Succeed on a Group Project

College students often dread group projects. A professor shares tips on how to avoid common group project issues and get the most out of these assignments.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

How to Ask a Professor for Feedback: 7 Tips From an Actual Professor

Feedback can help you gain valuable skills and boost your grade. A professor discusses the best ways to ask your instructor for feedback.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

4 Benefits of Using Lumio in College Classrooms

Lumio is an EdTech tool often used to engage students on their devices. Here, a professor gives her top tips for using Lumio in college classes.

Dr. Samantha Fecich

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Courses & Academics

What Is Plagiarism? And Why Is It So Bad?

Plagiarism is unethical, and cheating can have major consequences for your academic future. Learn about the types of plagiarism and how to check for them.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: Is There Extra Credit in College?

You can earn extra credit in college. A professor weighs in on different types of extra credit and how to ask for extra credit in college.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

How to Write a History Essay, According to a History Professor

A history professor breaks down how to write a successful history essay, from choosing a topic to polishing your argument.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

What Are Transition Pathway Programs?

Find out how transition pathway programs provide high school and international students with the skills they need to thrive in college.

Whitney Sandoval

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: What Is a University Writing Center and Should You Use It?

Colleges run writing centers to help students improve their written communication skills. A college professor looks at the benefits of the writing center.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

4 Essential Tips for Acing a Pop Quiz in College

Pop quizzes are quizzes you're not aware of before they happen. But with these tips, you can feel prepared for any pop quiz that comes your way.

Dr. Samantha Fecich

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: How Can You Boost Your Participation Grade?

Many classes include a participation grade in your final grade. A professor goes over the best tips and strategies for raising your participation grade.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

What Is a Practicum? Everything You Need to Know

Learn what a practicum is, how to stand out in your practicum, and how to apply what you've learned in class to your practicum.

Dr. Samantha Fecich

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: How Does Grading on a Curve Work?

What is grading on a curve, and how does it work? A college professor explains how instructors curve grades and what this means for students.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

AP Language Classes: What Are They and Who Should Take Them?

The College Board offers eight AP world language exams. Learn more about course content, test scores, and the benefits of taking AP language classes.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Why AP Classes Lack Diversity — and Why We Need to Change This

Historically, AP classes have lacked diversity and created barriers for students of color. Learn about the importance of closing equity gaps in AP classes.

Ciera Graham, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: What to Do if You’re Failing a Class in College

What should you do if you're failing a class in college? A professor weighs in on how to handle an F and the steps to take if you're failing.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

What Is Fieldwork in Graduate School?

What does fieldwork entail exactly? Learn how to research in grad school and get tips for preparing for fieldwork in your subject area.

Dr. Samantha Fecich

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Courses & Academics

How to Use Canva in College: 4 Tips for Students and Teachers

Start using Canva for free and see what you can create this semester. The popular tool offers many options to create, deliver, and consume content.

Dr. Samantha Fecich

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Courses & Academics

Jazz Up Your School Presentations With These Helpful Edtech Tools

Got a school presentation coming up? Engage your classmates through your design and delivery with these unique edtech tools and resources.

Dr. Samantha Fecich

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Courses & Academics

Top 8 Edtech Tools for Getting Organized in College

With the help of educational technology, students can organize all the digital materials they need for college. Start now with these eight edtech tools.

Dr. Samantha Fecich

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Courses & Academics

How to Write a Research Paper: 11-Step Guide

Writing a research paper can be challenging, not to mention time-consuming. Follow these 11 steps to write a stellar college research paper.

Dr. Samantha Fecich

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Courses & Academics

7 Myths About College Professors and Why They’re Wrong

Professors get cushy hours, high salaries, and job protection — or maybe not. Here, we break down the biggest misconceptions about college instructors.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: How to Join a Class That’s Already Full

Can you register for a full class? With the right strategy, students can join full classes. A college professor walks through what steps to take.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

10 Free Online Personal Finance Courses for College Students

It's important for students to learn how to manage money. These free online personal finance class options for college students can show you how.

Whitney Sandoval

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Courses & Academics

The 11 Best Study Tips for College

College students spend hours studying. But are there better ways to study in college? These 11 study tips will help you study smarter, not harder.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

How College Mentors Can Foster Student Success

A college mentor can support students in their academic and professional pursuits. Learn what a good mentor looks like and how to find one.

Melissa Venable, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

13 Tips for Surviving Finals Week in College

What's the best way to survive finals week while also boosting your academic performance? These tips can prepare you to master college finals week.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: Should You Take Winter-Session Classes?

Winter session can help undergrads earn their degree faster, but there are downsides. Learn about the pros and cons of signing up for winter courses.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

How to Bounce Back From a Poor Midterm Grade

A poor midterm grade in college can be disappointing. But with the right strategies, you can bounce back over the rest of the term.

Dr. Samantha Fecich

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: How to Appeal a Grade in College

Can you dispute a final grade in college? Learn how to change your grades and improve your chances of winning a grade appeal.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: How to Improve Your Grades in College

A few simple steps can help students improve their academic performance. Learn how to raise your grades in college with these helpful tips.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Lower-Division vs. Upper-Division Classes: How Do They Differ?

Colleges divide undergraduate courses into lower- and upper-division classes. Learn why this difference matters for students.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: How to Study for a College Midterm Exam

Midterm exams often make up a significant percentage of final college grades. Here are the best tips and strategies for acing your midterms.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

4 Tips for Addressing Tough Topics With Online Professors

Many online students find it hard to address personal struggles with their professors. Learn how to compose a professional email to get the support you need.

Melissa Venable, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

What Is a Good GPA in College? In High School?

The definition of a good GPA can vary depending on the school, discipline, and employer. Learn what a good GPA is in college and high school.

Chinh Ngo

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Courses & Academics

IB vs. AP Classes: Which Should You Take?

What are the differences between IB vs. AP classes? Read about IB and AP classes in high school and learn more about how these programs work.

Whitney Sandoval

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Courses & Academics

5 Questions to Ask Before Taking AP Classes

Wondering if AP classes are right for you? This post outlines five questions to ask yourself before enrolling in AP classes.

Staff Writers

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Courses & Academics

Honors vs. AP Classes: What’s the Difference?

Discover the difference between honors vs. AP classes with our guide. Ensure you make the right decisions in high school when preparing for college.

Doug Wintemute

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Courses & Academics

Which AP Classes Should You Take?

If you're in high school, you may wonder, "Which AP classes should I take?" Learn more about AP classes with our guide.

Staff Writers

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: Should You Drop a Class?

When should you drop a class and when should you stick with it? Learn about the consequences of dropping a class and your alternatives.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

1
Courses & Academics

Independent Study: What It Is and How It Works

Learn about independent study. Discover who is best suited for self-directed study and find out common requirements.

Marisa Upson

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Courses & Academics

7 Types of College Classes You Can Take

Explore the types of college courses that students most frequently encounter, including online courses, labs, and lectures.

Stefanie Grodman

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Courses & Academics

What Are the Easiest AP Classes and Tests?

Learn how to find the "easiest" AP classes, which have more flexible study requirements, and earn college credit through classes with high exam pass rates.

Megan Whitenton

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Courses & Academics

What Are the Hardest AP Classes and Tests?

We've ranked the 10 hardest AP classes and tests based on exam pass rates and scores. Learn what you should consider when selecting AP classes.

Marisa Upson

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Courses & Academics

What Is the IB Program?

Learn about the International Baccalaureate diploma program. Discover how the IB program works and read about IB courses and IB diploma requirements.

Whitney Sandoval

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Courses & Academics

What Is General Education (Gen Ed)?

General education requirements make up half of a bachelor's degree at most colleges. These courses build soft skills that hold real-world value for jobs.

Anne Dennon

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Courses & Academics

Adjunct Professor vs. Tenured Professor: How Do They Differ?

What's the difference between adjunct and tenured professors? Learn how an academic title affects job security, teaching responsibilities, salaries.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: When to Take a College Class Pass/Fail

Curious about the benefits and drawbacks of the pass/fail grading system? Use these tips to decide when you should take a course pass/fail.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

What Is the Dean’s List and How Can You Get on It?

The dean's list is a prestigious award for academic excellence. If you meet the dean's list GPA requirements, you can show it off on your resume.

Danika Miller

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: What Is a Passing Grade in College?

What is considered a passing grade in college? Is a D a passing grade? Learn more about how to pass your classes and graduate on time.

Staff Writers

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Courses & Academics

What Is Academic Freedom?

The at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill involving Nikole Hannah-Jones has once again thrust into the national spotlight the issue of academic freedom. But what is academic...

Mark J. Drozdowski, Ed.D.

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: How to Get the Most Out of College Office Hours

Attending office hours can help you make valuable connections with professors. Use these tips to show up prepared to make the most out of office hours.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

10 Free and Affordable Online Writing Tools for Students

Learn about the best free and affordable online writing tools and find out which ones can help you become a better writer.

Michelle Kelley

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: What Should You Do If You’ve Failed a Test?

Failing a test is part of college. Use these five tips to get past the frustration of failing an exam and to perform better on your next assessment.

Staff Writers

1
Courses & Academics

Top 6 Productivity Hacks for College Students

College students can find ways to increase their productivity and enhance their decision-making skills while reducing stress with these six essential tips.

Ciera Graham, Ph.D.

1
Courses & Academics

Learn Japanese Online: Classes to Get You Started

Learn about affordable online Japanese classes. Compare different Japanese language programs and their unique features.

Marisa Upson

1
Courses & Academics

10 Ways to Improve Your Public Speaking Skills

Learn how to build your public speaking skills through a variety of proven tips and see how public speaking can enhance your career opportunities.

Steve Bailey

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: How to Form a Study Group in College

Study groups can help college students thrive academically. Learn what makes for a successful study group and how to form a group that's right for you.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

How to Write a Conclusion Paragraph for an Essay

You can't produce a strong essay without knowing how to write a good conclusion. Learn the best tips for crafting an effective conclusion paragraph.

Laila Abdalla, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Ask a Professor: How to Ask for an Extension on a Paper

A student's life is full of deadlines. Learn the best strategies for approaching your professor to ask for an extension on an assignment.

Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Auditing a Class: What It Is and How It Works

Auditing a class allows students to learn without the pressure of grades and GPAs. Discover what it means to audit a class in college and how to get started.

Staff Writers

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Courses & Academics

How to Prepare for a Presentation in College

College presentations can be nerve-racking. Explore the best tips and tricks for giving engaging presentations and reducing pre-presentation stress.

Melissa Venable, Ph.D.

1
Courses & Academics

The Best Questions to Ask Your Academic Advisor

Academic advisors do more than just help students plan their college careers. Here are the best questions to ask your advisor the next time you go in.

Anthony Chiaravelotti

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Courses & Academics

What Is Tenure? A Look at the Past, Present, and Future

What Is Tenure? A Look at the Past, Present, and Future

Mark J. Drozdowski, Ed.D.

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Courses & Academics

AP Classes: Are They Worth It?

Many U.S. high schools offer AP classes. Discover the benefits of taking AP courses and what factors to consider before enrolling.

Steve Bailey

1
Courses & Academics

How to Write a Body Paragraph for a College Essay

Part of doing well in college is learning how to write a body paragraph, which should support your essay's thesis claim through evidence and cogent analysis.

Staff Writers

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Courses & Academics

Are Professor Ratings and Reviews Sites Legit?

Many colleges use student evaluations of faculty to make crucial hiring and promotion decisions, but studies reveal problematic biases in professor ratings.

Mark J. Drozdowski, Ed.D.

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Courses & Academics

The 5 Best Note-Taking Methods for Students in College

Want to take better notes during class? Learn about popular note-taking methods and other tips to help boost your academic performance in college.

Staff Writers

1
Courses & Academics

How to Choose Your College Class Schedule

Learn how to create the best class schedule each semester by considering important academic and nonacademic factors.

Steve Bailey

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Courses & Academics

8 Tips to Stay Organized In College

Want to get more organized this semester? Read this post to increase your productivity and boost your organizational skills.

Whitney Sandoval

1
Courses & Academics

Online Students’ Top 7 Study Tips for Academic Success

In a new BestColleges survey, online college students share their biggest tips for doing well in an online class, from taking notes to asking questions.

Melissa Venable, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

What Is Service Learning?

Service learning unites classwork and community service, and reminds college students of their responsibilities as citizens and skilled professionals.

Anne Dennon

1
Courses & Academics

3 Essential Tips for Online Presentations

Part of earning a good grade in an online class is being able to give a stellar virtual presentation. These expert online presentation tips guarantee success.

Staff Writers

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Courses & Academics

How to Write an Essay Introduction

College students write many papers, but what's the best way to compose an essay introduction? Learn how to come up with an interesting hook and thesis.

Laila Abdalla, Ph.D.

1
Courses & Academics

Strategies for Writing a Compelling Thesis Statement

The thesis is central to an argumentative essay. These strategies and thesis statement examples will teach you how to write a quality essay introduction.

Laila Abdalla, Ph.D.

1
Courses & Academics

How to Calculate Your GPA in College

A high college GPA can help you get into grad school or qualify for scholarships. Calculating your GPA lets you keep track of your progress toward your goals.

Tyler Epps

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Courses & Academics

How to Find Reliable Sources and Spot Misinformation

Misinformation and fake news can't stand up to tried-and-true academic research methods. Learn how to search for and identify credible sources in college.

Anne Dennon

1
Courses & Academics

Learn Spanish Online: Free Courses to Get You Started

Spanish is one of the most commonly spoken languages in the world. These free online Spanish classes will have you communicating confidently in no time.

Tyler Epps

1
Courses & Academics

6 Essential Tips for Students Taking Online Courses This Fall

Many colleges will remain online this fall due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These six tips will teach students who are new to online education how to succeed.

Melissa Venable, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

What Are the Social Sciences?

One facet of the liberal arts, social science is the study of humans and society. Learn the different types of social science majors and jobs you can pursue.

Staff Writers

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Courses & Academics

What to Expect in an Online Science Lab Course

Due to COVID-19, many colleges are letting students take a lab online. Learn what to expect in online science labs, from at-home kits to digital simulations.

Melissa Venable, Ph.D.

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Courses & Academics

Free Online Courses on Race, Racism, and Racial Justice

Combating systemic racism requires education on what it is and how it works. Begin learning with these free race, equity, and diversity online courses.

Staff Writers

1
Courses & Academics

The Best Online Pop Culture Courses

Pop culture is everywhere: in music, online, and in movies. By taking college courses in these subjects, you''ll learn about pop culture''s central role in society.

Kasia Kovacs

1
Courses & Academics

How to Survive Group Projects in an Online Class

Group projects in college, especially in online classes, can be tricky to handle. Learn the best tips for planning and executing remote group assignments.

Melissa Venable, Ph.D.

1
Courses & Academics

5 Reasons to Take a Media Studies Course

Media studies entails the study of mass communication and encourages media literacy. Discover why every college student should take a media studies course.

Kelli Marshall, Ph.D.

1
Courses & Academics

A Student Checklist for Online Classes

In the wake of COVID-19, virtual classes have created challenges for students and instructors. Check out these essential tips for making the switch to online learning.

Melissa Venable, Ph.D.

1
Courses & Academics

Free Online Courses in Response to Coronavirus

Free online courses are available during the coronavirus shutdown from some of the world's top universities. Discover the most popular courses out there.

Staff Writers

1
Courses & Academics

How to Write an Effective Thesis Statement

Writing a thesis statement is hard work. Discover the best tips and tricks for crafting an effective thesis statement and supporting it in an academic essay.

Jonathan Wlodarski

1
Courses & Academics

How to Write an Email to a Professor

Learning how to email a professor is critical in college. Here, we cover the basics of email etiquette for students and the biggest do's and don'ts.

Staff Writers

1
Courses & Academics

The Best Creative Writing Prompts and Practice Tips

These daily writing habits and 10 creative writing prompts will help you become a more effective writer.

Jonathan Wlodarski

1
Courses & Academics

Letter Imperfect: Why GPAs No Longer Make the Grade

Many schools are stepping away from traditional letter grades and GPAs in favor of more nuanced and personalized forms of student assessment.

Valerie Bratt-Leal