Multiple weeks behind uni work. How to catch up over christmas?

2

Hi,
I recently enrolled on a computer science programme at a fairly high ranking university in the uk and I am multiple weeks behind on content. I have 4 modules: Maths, Computer Systems, Databases and Programming. For maths I’m caught up to about week 5, and about week 6 for programming but the other two I’m severely behind. Has anyone that done a similar course been in a similar situation and have an idea on how to catch up.

Reply 1

mesub

Volunteer Team, Clearing and Applications Advisor

22

Original post

by CactusMuncher

Hi,
I recently enrolled on a computer science programme at a fairly high ranking university in the uk and I am multiple weeks behind on content. I have 4 modules: Maths, Computer Systems, Databases and Programming. For maths I’m caught up to about week 5, and about week 6 for programming but the other two I’m severely behind. Has anyone that done a similar course been in a similar situation and have an idea on how to catch up.

Make a plan and stick to it. Make sure it's realistic, but you will need to get on the grind over the next few weeks.

Reply 2

Lancaster Student Ambassador

Official Rep

18

Original post

by CactusMuncher

Hi,
I recently enrolled on a computer science programme at a fairly high ranking university in the uk and I am multiple weeks behind on content. I have 4 modules: Maths, Computer Systems, Databases and Programming. For maths I’m caught up to about week 5, and about week 6 for programming but the other two I’m severely behind. Has anyone that done a similar course been in a similar situation and have an idea on how to catch up.

Hi!

Falling behind in uni work can feel stressful at the time, but it doesn't need to be. My best advice to you would be split your tasks into manageable chunks - it's probably not the best idea trying to catch up on 4 weeks worth of work and lectures at once, as you might become burnt out/not retain the information as well as you could have.

It is doable to catch up in your courses again, but it definitely takes some dedication and planning time to do so. It's over Christmas, so definitely give yourself some time off, but even doing a few hours a day can help - if you work better in the mornings, work from 9am-3pm, then take the rest of the day 'off'. Similarly, if you work better in the evenings, take the morning to do things that will motivate you to work later on! It's honestly whatever works best for you.

If you are still struggling, try some different studying techniques, like the pomodoro method! It's a really easy way to get work done without noticing the time passing!

I hope this helps, and I wish you the best of luck over the Christmas break!

Jess
Student Ambassador

Reply 3

University of Bath

Official Rep

14

Original post

by CactusMuncher

Hi,
I recently enrolled on a computer science programme at a fairly high ranking university in the uk and I am multiple weeks behind on content. I have 4 modules: Maths, Computer Systems, Databases and Programming. For maths I’m caught up to about week 5, and about week 6 for programming but the other two I’m severely behind. Has anyone that done a similar course been in a similar situation and have an idea on how to catch up.

Hello there,

Its completely normal to have not got into the proper routine of uni work yet, and you will not be the only new student worried about having fallen behind. You've had a lot of change to get used to so don't be too hard on yourself.

My advice, similar to above, would be to take it one lecture at a time. What topics have you missed for each module? Do you have materials to help you revise them, like lecture slides and suggested reading, problem sheets? I would make yourself a table-matrix of all of the lectures you would like to catch up on and then put dates underneath them, so you can make a plan on which topics/lectures you want to get done each day. When you have caught up with them, then cross them out or colour them in on the matrix. Its always good to see visually how much progress you're making. I'd also recommend taking regular breaks, revising in hour-long chunks and rewarding yourself after you've achieved a study goal (seeing friends, going shopping/to the cinema/out, chocolate?)

I would also however, pencil in a a few days over your break (Xmas Eve/Xmas Day/Boxing Day, NY Eve, NY Day) where you have some good time off and not work at all - after working hard for a semester if you give yourself these days off you will feel more motivated going back after Christmas having had some good rest.

I hope this helps - remember you CAN do this.

Holly
University of Bath

Reply 4

University of Salford Student Rep

Official Rep

13

Original post

by CactusMuncher

Hi,
I recently enrolled on a computer science programme at a fairly high ranking university in the uk and I am multiple weeks behind on content. I have 4 modules: Maths, Computer Systems, Databases and Programming. For maths I’m caught up to about week 5, and about week 6 for programming but the other two I’m severely behind. Has anyone that done a similar course been in a similar situation and have an idea on how to catch up.

Hey,

It’s totally understandable to feel overwhelmed when you fall behind, especially on a demanding course like computer science. The key is to take a balanced approach. I would avoid trying to catch up all at once, but instead prioritise and plan your time effectively while still leaving room to relax and recharge.

First, reach out to friends or classmates on your course. They might help you identify which topics are particularly challenging or essential for each module. Focus more time on those areas, as they’re likely to have the biggest impact on your understanding and future assessments.

What works for me is to start with the assessment methods. For example, if your module is coursework-heavy, review the coursework brief and prioritise the topics directly related to it. For exam-based modules, look at past papers or practice questions and identify recurring themes or topics that come up frequently. Use this as a guide to focus your efforts on high return material before tackling everything else.

You might also find it helpful to create a daily or weekly study schedule. Dedicate time to each module but balance it by rotating through them so you’re not stuck on one thing for too long. For example, you could spend an hour catching up on Databases and then switch to Computer Systems. Mixing it up keeps your mind fresh and stops you from burning out.

Lastly, remember it’s okay to ask for help. Your lecturers, personal tutor, or course mentors can provide guidance and may even suggest resources or study strategies. And most importantly, don’t forget to leave time to relax and wind down, it’s hard to catch up if you’re completely burnt out.

Good luck,
Arslan – University of Salford Student Representative

Multiple weeks behind uni work. How to catch up over christmas?

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