How to Deal With a Difficult Professor

Some professors will help you so much it is a breeze to get through their class. Others, however, are the opposite. These professors will expect you to devote your entire life to their course in order to ace the class. Deal with a difficult professor by assessing what is asked of you, and going the extra mile.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Ask your difficult professor the right questions. It is easier to deal with some professors when you know how to talk to them. Open yourself up to being wrong, and take responsibility for not doing well in their class. Question them regarding what you are doing wrong, and what extra work you could do to excel in the class. Then you have to do the work.

2. Search for other sources of information. Take what your difficult professor has assigned, and look for other ways to learn the information. If their teaching style does not mesh with yours, deal with it the best way by teaching yourself the information needed.

3. Cater to their interpretations. It may go against your beliefs, but sometimes you have to deal with a difficult professor by learning- and giving him-exactly what he wants. Listen to lectures and cater your essays and exam answers to their line of thinking. Some professors don't want to know what you know, but what they have taught you.

4. Form study groups with your classmates. It is easier to deal with anything, even a difficult professor, when you have a team helping you. A study group is a wonderful way to study for the course, and it is a good way to get a read on how your peers are fairing in the class as well. You may find that you are not alone in judging his class more difficult than others.

5. Drop the class. This should be seen as only a last resort, but if you continually butt heads with your difficult professor, it may be the best way to deal with the issue. Make sure you are adhering to deadlines, then drop the class and take it another semester.

6. Give a thorough evaluation. Most colleges give out professor evaluations at the end of each semester, and take the time to be clear and concise on his evaluation. Write down exactly how you thought she did well, and include what you think should be improved to help future students.