The importance of following directions

Do you follow directions? It’s a simple question, right. We all think that we follow directions thoroughly, but with multitasking just about everything and information at our hands 24/7 can you really be sure?

In the online learning environment, it is imperative that you are able to follow textual directions very comprehensively. Why, you might be asking ~ because most of the instructions will be presented to you in a textual format. Here are some tips to help you stay on top of things:

• Slow down and get into an academic mindset. When you sit down to do your school work, take a deep breath and get focused on the activity at hand. Make sure there are no distractions around. If there are you will need to adjust either the setting or planned time. Go back to your schedule and see what task you will be completing.
• Read the instructions entirely the first time through. If you have any questions in regards to the materials or directions contact your instructor for clarification. This might mean that you have to skip this one and move onto another activity to stay on track. It is okay to jump around. Don’t just stop and give up. If you do, you will get behind and your motivation will be lost.
• Break the items into smaller chunks. Maybe you have to do some research or read before writing or completing an assignment. Do one thing at a time. Be sure to take breaks in between. Maybe you just get up and stretch, walk around your desk, or get a drink of water. Taking breaks will help alleviate stress and keep you focused.

Keep in mind that if you don’t follow the instructions carefully and correctly from the get go you will wind up doing more work in the end. Following the directions the first time will help you to learn the content, receive better grades, and keep you on track.