Helpful Tips for Online Learning Success 

• Manage Your Time with a Structured Schedule  Stay on track by creating a clear study plan using a calendar to track assignments, exams, and deadlines. Schedule regular study blocks each week, just like traditional classes, and use to-do lists to prioritize tasks. Break large assignments into smaller chunks to make them less overwhelming.  
• Create a Dedicated, Distraction-Free Study Environment  Having a reliable workspace (good internet, minimal noise, proper lighting) helps sustain focus. Also, reducing distractions (phones, unnecessary browser tabs, streaming entertainment, etc.) during study or quiz times has been shown to enhance concentration and efficiency. Focus on one task at a time; multitasking divides attention, increases errors, and drains energy.  
• Set Clear Goals and Monitor Your Progress  Define what success means for you, whether it’s earning a certain grade, building skills, or completing the course, and check in on your progress often. Seek feedback, adjust your study habits, and stay flexible when challenges arise. Connect assignments to your interests or goals to keep motivation high. Remember to rest, eat well, and take breaks to stay balanced.  A growth mindset, believing that effort leads to improvement, helps you stay confident and perform your best.   
• Stay Actively Engaged with Coursework and Peers  Regular participation in discussion boards, group work, and asking questions improves retention and keeps you connected. Interaction with both instructors and classmates supports deeper learning.  
• Know and Use Student Support Services Early & Often  Tutoring, writing centers, technical help, library services, and academic advisors can make a big difference. Students who use these resources tend to feel more competent, less isolated, and achieve higher grades. Asking questions when unclear, rather than waiting, supports better outcomes. See the Related Resources section below.  

 Taking Online Quizzes & Exams  

• Prepare Your Technology and Backup Strategies  Technical issues can disrupt your exam, so plan ahead. Test your computer, internet, and software before the exam. Restart your device, check your Wi-Fi, and make sure everything is updated and charged. Install any required tools, like a lockdown browser, at least a day in advance. Have a backup plan in case your internet drops or your computer crashes. 
• Create a Distraction-Free Testing Space  Choose a quiet spot where you can focus without interruptions. If your home is too noisy, consider using a study room at the library. Silence your phone, close other tabs, and let others know you’re taking an exam. Have all allowed materials (notes, paper, or a calculator) ready before you begin.   
• Understand the Exam Guidelines and Format  Check the exam date, time, format, and any system requirements like a lockdown browser or remote proctoring. Understand the format, timed or untimed, question types, and whether you can skip and return to questions. Even for open-book exams, study thoroughly so you can recall information quickly and work efficiently.   
• Manage Your Time and Stay Calm  If allowed, skim the questions first and start with the ones you know. Check the time occasionally and don’t linger on tough questions. Use deep breaths or mindfulness techniques to stay calm and focused.
• Troubleshoot and Submit Safely Save your work as you go and contact your instructor immediately if problems arise; screenshots are helpful. Review your answers and make sure your submission is confirmed before closing or refreshing.   

Technology Tools  

• NDSU VoiceThread: a collaborative multimedia slide show that holds images, documents, and videos and allows people to navigate slides and leave comments in 5 ways – voice, text, audio file, or video.  
• Video/Media Solutions: multiple options for creating multimedia.  
• YuJa Recording & Adding Links to Blackboard – for Students: use YuJa to record videos and add them to Blackboard courses 
• Zoom - Guide for Students: web conferencing tool used to attend classes and meetings.   

Learn More/How To’s:  

• 5 Online Learning Tips for Student Success, Ohio State Online - Offering practical tips on how to manage your time, stay organized, stay motivated, and actively participate in online courses. 
• 7 Time Management Tips for Online Students, Northeastern University -  The most valuable skill for an online student is effective time management. Learn tips to help you balance work and other commitments while staying focused in your online courses. 
• 7 Tips for Taking Online Exams, Ohio State Online - Advice on setting up your tech, creating a distraction-free space, knowing your exam format, and managing your time and tools to feel confident and in control for your online tests. 
• 10 Tips for Success in Online Courses, University of South Florida - Tips for setting up a good study space, creating a routine, connecting with classmates, staying motivated, managing your wellness, and supporting other along the way.  
• 15 Tips to Succeed in an Online Class, University of Minnesota Online - Creating a distraction-free study zone, setting goals, managing time, staying connected with classmates and instructors, and mastering your tech are key to staying on track and achieving your best in an online class. 
• 16 Online Test-Taking Tips, University of Tulsa - Advice on checking your tech, creating a study space, knowing exam rules, backup plans, and using smart test-taking habits so you can show what you know when it is test day. 
• New Semester Tips: How to Start Strong in Your Online Classes, Ohio State Online - Guidance on mapping out your goals, scheduling time wisely, checking your technology, and getting connected with your instructor and peers so you can feel organized, confident and ready for online classes. 
• Tips for Taking Online Classes, Northeastern University - To be fully prepared to succeed in an online environment, learn about these smart strategies: treating your online course seriously, creating a dedicated learning space, managing your time wisely (infographic), eliminating distractions, and understanding how you learn best. 
• Tips for Taking Online Exams, Cengage - Advice for before, during, and after an online test so you can feel more confident and prepared for the whole process.
• Tips for Taking Online Exams, SUNY Brockport - Clear steps to help you succeed in online exams, including reviewing test guidelines, checking your tech, setting up a focused study space, and managing your time effectively.   

Related Resources  

• Academic Collegiate Enhancement (ACE) Tutoring - offers free support to currently enrolled NDSU students in a variety of courses and subjects.   
• Career and Advising Center - facilitates various ways for students to connect and receive services.    
• Center for Accessibility and Disability Resources - NDSU is committed to ensuring equal access to its curricular and co-curricular opportunities for students with disabilities  
• International Student and Study Abroad Services - offers advising for prospective and current international undergraduate and graduate students. The office also hosts Study Abroad Fairs, Passport to Payday, and other events.  
• NDSU Counseling Center - provides a safe and confidential space where students can talk about personal or academic concerns and get connected to helpful resources. Counselors support students in addressing challenges that may affect their well-being or academic success and serve as consultants for faculty and staff.  
• NDSU One-Stop - student-focused service center that provides information about your account, financial aid, scholarships, tuition, bill payments, class registration, and student records.  
• Center for Writers - provides no-cost writing support to NDSU undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and staff.