How to Read a Syllabus

The college syllabus is a contract between you and your professor. It spells out what she expects from you, and what you may expect from her. Reading carefully and understanding your college syllabus on the very first day of class is one of the most important steps toward excelling in any college course. There also are important clues in the syllabus that will help you decide on the first day whether to drop or keep a course. Most professors put a great deal of thought and effort into creating the syllabus. They will appreciate a student who reads it carefully before asking questions.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Notice the overall length of the syllabus. A short syllabus does NOT mean the course will be easy. In fact, a long syllabus is generally a good sign. It often means that the professor has taught the course many times and improved the syllabus to clear up any areas of ambiguity.

2. Note the professor’s office location and hours. Usually, professors will hold office hours at different times on different days to give students a range of possibilities. These hours are not the only time the professor will be in his office, but it is the only time the professor schedules to devote solely to meeting with students. Professors have many other responsibilities that require concentration and may not greet you warmly if you interrupt them outside of published office hours. If you have courses scheduled during all of a professor’s office hours, ask him if he responds to emails or makes alternate appointments.

3. Note the dates of all major assignments and exams. If you have non-refundable tickets that will take you out of town on that day, consider dropping the class. It’s possible that the professor will accept a project early if you have a conflict, but you should talk to the professor during office hours before drop/add ends. If you wait until a week before the project is due, do not expect sympathy. The professor will rightly note that the due dates have been published from day one. Also, consider when major projects and assignments fall relative to your other courses. If many fall on the same day or week, consider dropping one of the courses or speaking to the professors about your options.

4. Note the professor’s policies regarding absences, tardiness and participation. Believe them. Most students will experience an unexpected crisis or opportunity at some time during their college careers that temporarily detains them. The professor has heard all of these.

5. Note when readings are due. When a reading is assigned, it should be completed before the lecture on that day. The lecture or course activities are far more engaging when you’ve read the assignment. Some professors give pop quizzes to encourage reading before class.

6. Note the submission requirements for any assignments. Does the professor prefer MLA over APA? If so, get an MLA manual and skim it well before your assignment is due.

7. Refer back to the syllabus often during the semester. At a minimum, consult the syllabus weekly for readings. Double check the syllabus before submitting any major paper or project to make sure you have met the deadline, style, length and other requirements. If any are unclear, speak to the professor early.