Questions to Ask About a Syllabus
Strategic questions that help you understand course expectations, requirements, and policies to ensure you're prepared for academic success and can plan your semester effectively.
1What are the main learning objectives for this course?
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What are the main learning objectives for this course?
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Why this works
Establishes the foundational goals and helps you understand what knowledge and skills you'll gain by the end of the semester.
2How is the course structured and what are the major units or topics?
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How is the course structured and what are the major units or topics?
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Why this works
Provides a roadmap for the semester and helps you understand the logical flow of content and how topics build upon each other.
3What are the specific requirements for assignments and projects?
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What are the specific requirements for assignments and projects?
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Why this works
Reveals the workload expectations and helps you understand what you'll need to complete to succeed in the course.
4How is the course graded and what percentage does each component represent?
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How is the course graded and what percentage does each component represent?
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Why this works
Shows you understand the importance of understanding grading and helps you prioritize your time and effort effectively.
5What are the deadlines for major assignments and exams?
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What are the deadlines for major assignments and exams?
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Why this works
Helps you plan your semester and shows you understand the importance of time management and meeting deadlines.
6What textbooks and materials are required, and where can I obtain them?
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What textbooks and materials are required, and where can I obtain them?
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Why this works
Shows you're thinking about preparation and reveals the resources you'll need to succeed in the course.
7What is the attendance policy and how does it affect my grade?
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What is the attendance policy and how does it affect my grade?
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Why this works
Reveals the importance of attendance and helps you understand the consequences of missing class.
8What are the policies regarding late work and make-up assignments?
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What are the policies regarding late work and make-up assignments?
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Why this works
Shows you understand the importance of meeting deadlines and reveals the consequences of not completing work on time.
9How can I get help if I'm struggling with the course material?
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How can I get help if I'm struggling with the course material?
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Why this works
Shows you're thinking about academic support and reveals the resources available for getting help when you need it.
10What are the expectations for class participation and discussion?
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What are the expectations for class participation and discussion?
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Why this works
Reveals how active engagement is valued and helps you understand what's expected in terms of classroom involvement.
11What technology or software will I need for this course?
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What technology or software will I need for this course?
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Why this works
Shows you're thinking about technical requirements and helps you prepare for any digital tools or platforms you'll need to use.
12What are the policies regarding academic integrity and plagiarism?
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What are the policies regarding academic integrity and plagiarism?
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Why this works
Shows you understand the importance of academic honesty and reveals the consequences of violating academic integrity policies.
13How can I contact you outside of class hours?
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How can I contact you outside of class hours?
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Why this works
Shows you're thinking about communication and reveals the best ways to reach the instructor when you have questions or concerns.
14What opportunities exist for extra credit or additional learning?
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What opportunities exist for extra credit or additional learning?
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Why this works
Shows you're thinking about maximizing your learning and reveals opportunities for going beyond the basic requirements.
15What are the expectations for group work or collaborative projects?
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What are the expectations for group work or collaborative projects?
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Why this works
Reveals how teamwork is valued and helps you understand what's expected in terms of collaboration and group dynamics.
16How will feedback be provided on assignments and exams?
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How will feedback be provided on assignments and exams?
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Why this works
Shows you understand the importance of feedback and reveals how you'll receive information about your performance and areas for improvement.
17What are the policies regarding accommodations for students with disabilities?
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What are the policies regarding accommodations for students with disabilities?
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Why this works
Shows you understand the importance of inclusive education and reveals how the course supports students with different learning needs.
18What are the expectations for written work and citation styles?
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What are the expectations for written work and citation styles?
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Why this works
Reveals the academic writing standards and helps you understand the format and style requirements for assignments.
19How can I prepare for exams and what format will they take?
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How can I prepare for exams and what format will they take?
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Why this works
Shows you're thinking about assessment and reveals the best strategies for preparing for and performing well on exams.
20What are the most important things I should know to succeed in this course?
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What are the most important things I should know to succeed in this course?
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Why this works
Gives the instructor an opportunity to share key insights and shows you're focused on understanding what it takes to succeed.
Best Practices for Understanding Course Syllabi
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Read the Syllabus Thoroughly
Take time to read through the entire syllabus carefully and make note of important dates, requirements, and policies.
Ask Questions Early
Don't wait until problems arise to ask questions. Clarify expectations and requirements at the beginning of the semester.
Keep the Syllabus Accessible
Save a copy of the syllabus and refer to it regularly throughout the semester to stay on track with requirements and deadlines.
Question Sequences
The Course Structure Sequence
The Success Strategy Sequence
Common Pitfalls
Don't Ignore the Syllabus
The syllabus is a contract between you and the instructor. Ignoring it can lead to missed deadlines, poor grades, and academic problems.
Avoid Making Assumptions
Don't assume you know what's expected. Ask questions to clarify requirements and policies rather than making assumptions.
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late
Ask questions early in the semester when you have time to address any issues or concerns. Don't wait until problems arise.