"Did I miss anything?"

When a student misses a class, whether for legitimate or non-legitimate reasons, they often come to the instructor and ask the dreaded question “Did I miss anything?” In general, professors hate this question. It implies that there are days in the class that are completely pointless.

Instead of coming to your professor to ask what was missed, here is a list of things you should do first. While doing these things, try to make a list of anything that you don’t understand.

  • Check your class website. If there are videos for the class, start by watching them. If there are slides or other notes, go through them.

  • Check with a classmate and get any notes for the class that day.

  • Read the section(s) of the textbook covered by that class. If you are unsure what these are, check the syllabus or class calendar.

Once you have done these things, you have a list of any topics that are still a point of confusion. It is at this point you should schedule a meeting with your professor. Bring your list of specific topics or questions. This will definitely help you get on the professor’s good side!