How to Use Google Classroom Like a Pro

TL;DR

Google Classroom organizes your classes into streams with assignments, materials, and announcements. Check it daily, submit assignments through the "Your Work" tab (not email), and turn on notifications so you never miss a deadline.

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Google Classroom Basics

Google Classroom is a learning management system used by many high schools and some colleges. It integrates with Google Drive, Docs, Slides, and Forms — so if you know Google's ecosystem, you're already halfway there.

The Stream

The Stream is your class's newsfeed. Here you'll see:

• Announcements from your teacher
• New assignments when they're posted
• Comments and updates

Scroll down regularly — important things can get buried under newer posts.

The Classwork Tab (Most Important!)

This is where ALL assignments live, organized by topic or unit. Click any assignment to see:

• Full instructions
• Attached materials (documents, links, videos)
• Due date
• Your submission status

Always check the Classwork tab — not just the Stream — for a complete list of assignments.

Submitting Work

How to Submit:

1. Click on the assignment
2. Click "Your Work" on the right side
3. Add your file (upload, Google Drive, link, or new document)
4. Click "Turn In"
5. Confirm when prompted

Important Tips:

• "Turn In" is not the same as "Add." You must click Turn In for it to count as submitted.
• You can "Unsubmit" if you need to make changes (before the deadline)
• Google Classroom timestamps your submission — late is late

Working in Google Docs

If the teacher attached a Google Doc template:

• It creates a personal copy for you automatically
• Edit directly in the document
• It saves automatically (Google Docs' best feature)
• Still click "Turn In" when you're done

Checking Your Grades

Click on a graded assignment to see:

• Your score
• Teacher comments
• A link to your submitted work

Some teachers also post overall grades in Google Classroom. If not, you may need to check a separate grade portal.

Staying Organized

Use the To-Do Feature

Click the hamburger menu (three lines) → "To-do" to see all upcoming and missing assignments across ALL classes. This is your dashboard.

Turn On Notifications

Go to Settings → Notifications → Turn on notifications for:

• Comments on your work
• New assignments
• Grades posted
• Teacher announcements

Color-Code Your Classes

In Google Classroom, you can change each class's banner color/image. Color-code them so you can quickly identify which class is which.

Common Google Classroom Mistakes

1. Forgetting to click "Turn In" — Adding a file is not submitting it
2. Not checking the Classwork tab — Some assignments don't show in the Stream
3. Missing announcements — Teachers post important updates here
4. Not reading full instructions — Click into each assignment for complete details
5. Emailing work instead of submitting through Classroom — Always use the platform

Need Help With Your Assignments?

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Google Classroom is simple once you know the basics. Check it daily, submit through the platform, and turn on notifications. Easy A-preservation strategy. ✅