Q&A for How to Avoid Getting in Trouble for Not Doing Your Homework

Figure out a way to humbly apologize to your teacher, even if you don't necessarily think that you did anything wrong. Being able to say something like "I apologize for inconveniencing you" is a big sign of maturity. If you can find the language to have that kind of conversation, it'll do wonders.

If it is still within library hours and you have time, most public libraries have some way to print. If it is a written assignment that's not too long, just copy it over onto lined paper and explain to your teacher. If you and your teacher both have email, email them and include the assignment as an attachment.

Have a planner to record every piece of work you have to complete out of class, as well as due dates. Carrying a planner with you can make it easier for you to remember to write down your homework. A mobile app can be used as well; there are many task and schedule organizers designed to help students organize their time and homework activities. Also, set reminders! Have them daily for each day you go to school, that way logging in homework or bringing completed homework will be much easier to remember.

First of all, next time you think about procrastinating, remember that it's NOT a good idea. For now, all you can do is make a list of everything you need to get done and work your way through the list. Even if you don't get everything done, getting most of it done is better than nothing. Gather your materials, make your list, and get to work.

You probably can't, especially if your grades are already poor.

It's best to just be honest and tell your teacher what happened, apologize, and ask if you can turn it in late for partial credit.

In most cases, no! Many schools have volunteer programs that offer free tutoring. You can also ask teachers and counselors if they know any students willing to help you.

Go talk to the teacher, and explain to them what happened. Ask if it happened to anyone else. If not, ask if you can redo the assignment.

Be polite about it, and before you explain anything to your teacher, rehearse it! If you practice what you’re going to say, then it’ll most likely be easier for you to gather all your thoughts into a well planned argument. That way, you’ll have lots of proof as to why you think you get too much homework. Maybe the teacher will consider it! Even if she doesn’t, don’t worry. Keep trying your best, and be sure to ask for help from your parents or teacher if and when you need it. Keep a cheerful, positive attitude, and maybe the teacher won’t burden you (or the class) with so much homework. Be sincere in what you do.

You could rip the paper into about 5 pieces, wet the edges and bring the pieces in to make it look like your dog tore it apart, and slobbered on it.

Explain to them why it is late and promise that you will turn it in on time. If you have trouble doing this, maybe set an alarm to help you remember to do your homework.

Talk to your teacher privately and explain that it might seem super unrealistic but it did actually happen.

By saying just that! It may be embarrassing, so maybe try to get them after class or send them an email. Just say that you were confused with the material and so you couldn't complete the assignments.

Bring in the damaged homework as proof of what happened and explain the situation honestly to your teacher. Get a note from a parent if possible. Even if it wasn't your fault, take responsibility for what happened, and promise to take better care of your homework. With all the excuses teachers have heard over the years, it would be refreshing for them to see that you are mature enough to hold yourself accountable. They might be more likely to let it slide, especially if you have a good track record of turning assignments in on time. You can also show more initiative by offering to redo the assignment.

You could have an honest heart-to-heart with your parents and your brother about the situation. Tell them that you're not comfortable with your brother rummaging through your belongings because it is a violation of your privacy (not just because of the late work). Ask your brother how he would feel if you kept looking through all of his personal things and always told your parents things that he doesn't want them to know. If this doesn't convince him to stop, make a really inconspicuous hiding place for anything you don't want him to see. For example, you could hollow out a book you know he won't touch, fold up the assignments and hide them in there.