Questions to Ask About a Class
Strategic questions to ask about a class before enrolling, helping you understand the course content, workload, and expectations to make informed decisions about your education.
1What are the learning objectives and outcomes for this class?
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What are the learning objectives and outcomes for this class?
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Why this works
Establishes what you'll learn and be able to do after completing the course, ensuring it aligns with your goals.
2What is the typical workload, and how many hours per week should I expect to spend?
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What is the typical workload, and how many hours per week should I expect to spend?
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Why this works
Helps you assess time commitment and plan your schedule realistically around other responsibilities.
3What are the prerequisites, and do I have the necessary background knowledge?
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What are the prerequisites, and do I have the necessary background knowledge?
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Why this works
Ensures you're adequately prepared for the course and won't struggle due to gaps in foundational knowledge.
4What is the teaching style and class format (lecture, discussion, online, hybrid)?
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What is the teaching style and class format (lecture, discussion, online, hybrid)?
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Why this works
Reveals how the class is taught and whether the format suits your learning style and preferences.
5How is the class graded, and what are the major assignments or exams?
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How is the class graded, and what are the major assignments or exams?
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Why this works
Clarifies assessment methods and major deliverables, helping you understand how your performance will be evaluated.
6What textbooks or materials are required, and what is the estimated cost?
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What textbooks or materials are required, and what is the estimated cost?
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Why this works
Helps you budget for course materials and prepare financially for the semester.
7What is the professor's teaching philosophy and approach to student learning?
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What is the professor's teaching philosophy and approach to student learning?
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Why this works
Shows how the instructor approaches education and whether their style will help you learn effectively.
8How accessible is the professor, and what office hours or support are available?
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How accessible is the professor, and what office hours or support are available?
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Why this works
Reveals the level of instructor support and accessibility for questions or extra help.
9What opportunities exist for hands-on learning, projects, or real-world applications?
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What opportunities exist for hands-on learning, projects, or real-world applications?
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Why this works
Shows whether the class includes practical experience and opportunities to apply concepts beyond theory.
10What do former students say about this class, and what are common challenges?
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What do former students say about this class, and what are common challenges?
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Why this works
Provides insider perspective on the class experience and helps you prepare for potential difficulties.
11How does this class fit into my degree requirements or career goals?
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How does this class fit into my degree requirements or career goals?
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Why this works
Ensures the class serves your larger educational and professional objectives rather than just filling credits.
12What is the attendance policy, and how flexible is the schedule?
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What is the attendance policy, and how flexible is the schedule?
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Why this works
Clarifies expectations for class attendance and whether the schedule works with your other commitments.
13What opportunities exist for collaboration or group work in this class?
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What opportunities exist for collaboration or group work in this class?
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Why this works
Reveals whether you'll work with peers and develop teamwork skills through group projects or activities.
14What technology or software skills are needed or will be taught?
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What technology or software skills are needed or will be taught?
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Why this works
Identifies technical requirements and whether you'll gain valuable technical skills through the course.
15How current and relevant is the course content to today's practices and issues?
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How current and relevant is the course content to today's practices and issues?
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Why this works
Ensures you're learning up-to-date information that's relevant to current professional practices.
16What opportunities exist for participating in class discussions or presentations?
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What opportunities exist for participating in class discussions or presentations?
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Why this works
Shows whether the class includes opportunities to develop communication and public speaking skills.
17How does the professor provide feedback on assignments and exams?
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How does the professor provide feedback on assignments and exams?
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Why this works
Reveals the quality and timeliness of feedback you'll receive to help you improve and learn.
18What connections or networking opportunities might this class provide?
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What connections or networking opportunities might this class provide?
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Why this works
Explores whether the class offers professional connections through guest speakers, internships, or peer networking.
19What makes this class unique or different from similar courses?
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What makes this class unique or different from similar courses?
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Why this works
Helps you understand the distinctive features and value proposition of this particular class.
20What should I do to prepare for the first day and succeed in this class?
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What should I do to prepare for the first day and succeed in this class?
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Why this works
Provides practical guidance on how to start strong and set yourself up for success from day one.
Best Practices for Class Selection Conversations
Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.
Best Practices
Research Multiple Sources
Talk to professors, advisors, and former students to get different perspectives on the class.
Consider Your Goals
Focus on how the class serves your educational and career objectives rather than just trying to find easy credits.
Be Realistic About Your Capacity
Honestly assess whether you can handle the workload given your other commitments and courses.
Question Sequences
The Course Overview
The Learning Experience
Common Pitfalls
Don't Choose Based Only on Schedule
While schedule convenience matters, it shouldn't be the only factor in selecting courses.
Don't Ignore Warning Signs
If multiple students warn about excessive workload or poor teaching, take those concerns seriously.
Don't Overload Yourself
Be realistic about how many difficult courses you can handle in one semester while maintaining balance.