How to Catch Up on Missing Assignments Without Losing Your Mind 🧠

Sarah Zeilstra
Mar 30
3 min read

🤯 Feeling overwhelmed by a pile of overdue assignments? You’re not alone.

💡 It’s easy to shut down when you don’t know where to start, but there’s a way forward.

🎯In this guide, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step process to tackle your missing work and get back on track—without the panic.

⏰ It’s crunch time; and for some, there’s only a few weeks left of this winter semester. Many students are feeling behind on assignments and this can be overwhelming when it feels like time is running out.

If this resonates, read on for some actionable steps you can take. Here's to feeling less overwhelm and actually making progress towards finishing the semester and completing assignments.

Step 1: Get Everything in One Place

Why it helps: Scattered due dates and forgotten assignments make things worse.
How to do it:
- Gather all your syllabi, class portals, emails, and notes.
- Make a list of all missing assignments. (Use a Google Doc, notebook, or task app.)
- If unsure, email your professors or check your school’s learning management system (LMS).
Tip: If the list feels overwhelming, remind yourself that you don’t have to do it all at once.

Messy Student Desk

Step 2: Prioritize What Matters Most

How to decide what to tackle first:
- Deadlines: What’s due soon or still accepted for credit?
- Point Value: Which assignments will impact your grade the most?
- Time Required: Start with quick wins (5- to 15-minute tasks) to build momentum.
Example: A quiz worth 20% of your grade might be more important than a discussion post worth 2%.

Step 3: Break It Down into Small Steps

The problem: Big assignments feel impossible to start.
The fix: Break them into bite-sized tasks, like:
- Read the assignment instructions.
- Outline key points.
- Write the first paragraph.
Tip: Set a timer for just 10 minutes—getting started is the hardest part!

Step 4: Create a Realistic Plan

Don’t cram everything into one night!
Use a catch-up schedule:
- Block 30-60 minutes a day for missing work.
- Pair it with a habit (e.g., "After lunch, I do 30 minutes of homework").
- Set deadlines for yourself (e.g., “Finish Essay Draft by Wednesday”).
Bonus: Schedule accountability check-ins with a friend or tutor.

Step 5: Talk to Your Teachers (It’s Not Too Late!)

Why? Professors often allow extensions if you communicate.
How to ask:
- Be honest but professional: “I’ve fallen behind, but I’m working on catching up. Can I still submit [assignment name]?”
- Offer a realistic timeline: “I can complete it by [date].”
Tip: Don’t wait until the last minute—reach out now!

Step 6: Stay Focused & Avoid Burnout

Work in short bursts (try the Pomodoro technique: 25 minutes of work, 5-minute break).
Use focus tools (like website blockers for social media).
Reward yourself after completing tasks (even small ones count!).

Final Thoughts

💡 Keep Moving Forward. You don't have to finish everything overnight - progress is what matters.

🧠 Start small, stick to a plan, and be kind to yourself.

🎓 Need extra support? Consider working with a coach to develop strategies that work for you! Learn more here.

Interested in Executive Function Coaching?

🎯 For more in-depth support and guidance in creating a system that helps you achieve success in college, executive function coaching can help. Book a free 30 minute consultation. These discovery calls are conversations about what EF coaching entails and exploring whether EF coaching is a good fit for what you are looking for. There is no obligation and you can learn more here.

Subscribe to the Student Success Newsletter and receive exclusive access to:

📄 PDF templates

⏰ Early bird access to courses

💰 Exclusive discounts on 1:1 coaching

Have a great week!

Sarah

About the author

Founder of Student Success Coaching, and creator of the Courseload Management Coaching Program, Sarah Zeilstra brings over 25 years of experience to the forefront of higher education, specializing in empowering students to master their college experience. With a dynamic blend of expertise as a professor, coach, and speaker, she has become a trusted mentor and advocate for post-secondary learners. Sarah is renowned for her innovative and personalized approach to teaching, which focuses on fostering internal accountability, enabling students to confidently tackle their academic workload and mitigate stress. Her dedication to student success goes beyond the classroom as she continues to refine transformative strategies tailored to the unique challenges of college life. Sarah's philosophy that a positive mindset catalyzes the development of skill sets shines through her mentorship, as she works tirelessly to guide students towards unlocking their full potential. Her passion for education and commitment to her students' achievements make her an invaluable guide in the journey towards academic and personal growth.