Online courses are no joke – it can be hard to stay engaged and learn virtually. Although we are hopefully at the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, many classes are still virtual or following a hybrid model. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to succeed in your online courses. Here are five tips:

1. Create a productive learning environment. It can be tempting to join the Zoom call from the comfort of your bed. However, it’s more efficient to have a designated workspace, such as a desk where you sit to do homework and attend online classes. Your workspace should have few distractions, so lounging on your bed and scrolling through TikTok with class in the background isn’t the best idea. Try to keep your phone away from your workspace to stay focused.
2. Treat it like a normal class. Do not get out of bed two minutes before class starts. Instead, do the routine you would do to start your day before going to an in-person class. This may include washing your face, getting dressed, and having breakfast.
3. To take notes. Some people like notes in pencil and paper, while others prefer typing or writing on an iPad. Whichever method you prefer, be sure to take notes during class. It will keep you more engaged than if you just sit and listen.
4. Manage your time by making a plan and sticking to it. Read the course schedules in your course outlines at the start of the semester. Note important due dates and review dates. It can be helpful to create daily or weekly to-do lists and check them off as you go. you can do this in a planner or a spreadsheet. Remember to set aside time in your schedule to do things that improve your physical and mental health, like going to the gym or going for a walk, calling a friend or meeting someone for lunch.
5. Turn on your camera! If you were in person, everyone would see your face anyway, so why not turn on your camera during an online conference? This will hold you accountable and encourage you to be careful.

Try turning these tips into consistent study habits, and you might see an improvement in your content retention and overall performance in class!