what is a good excuse for not doing homework

49 Best Excuses For Not Doing Homework

No, you can’t use ‘I’d a fever’ as the best excuse for not doing homework. 

Also, blaming a dog for biting out your assignment book is totally unbelievable.

Well, don’t worry to help you out in such a situation, we provide you with all the fresh, believable excuses to give. 

( Note: This is just for entertainment purposes. Please don’t make a habit of relying on these excuses every day. Better if you do your homework on time.) 

Good Excuses For Not Doing Homework

Have these good reasons to convince your teacher why you came to school without the homework. 

3. “We have surprised guest visitors and they stay the whole day.” 

6. “I was about to do homework, but I don’t understand a thing.”

10. “There was a rumor that you were on leave today.”   

13. “After school, I have to work at our family business. My dad already trained me for it.”  

16. “My entire day went into doing some extracurricular, and I didn’t get time for homework.”

Funny Reasons For Not Doing Homework

But because it’s a hilarious and creative reason, it might still work in your favor. 

2. “My parents brought a pet for me. So I played with him the whole day.”

5. “I was lost in the mall while going shopping with my mum and found it in the evening.”

8. “My family wants me to go to a boarding school, so I’m just getting ready for it.”  

11. “My grandparents visited our home yesterday, and I’ve been busy with them.” 

14. “I accept that I didn’t do my homework now, but I promise to complete it tomorrow.” 

17. “This is the first time I forgot the lesson, and you have to understand that I have some reason for that.”

Believable Excuses For Not Doing Homework

Be careful with your reasons or excuses before saying why you didn’t do your homework. 

2. “I’ve saved my assignment, but I don’t know where it is now. The file is lost on the PC.” 

5. “My computer just got hacked and I must delete everything including homework.” 

8. “I thought today was a holiday. So I didn’t do it.”

11. “It was my sister’s marriage, so I was not able to complete my homework.” 

14. “I was helping other kids in school to complete assignments, but I forgot mine.” 

We all agree that we have the entire day to do it, but the best time to do homework is ‘the last hour’ before submission. 

When you fail to do or submit your assignment last time, you need some good excuses for not doing homework that your teacher could believe and accept. 

But, promise us, that you will do your homework on time from now on. We don’t want you to use these excuses anymore, too.

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Excuseindex.com

New excuses every week!

Hans Herbert

60 excuses for not doing homework (without blaming the dog).

• December 21, 2022
• ❂  School

Some people enjoy doing homework, while others despise it. Regardless of the type of person you are, homework can be boring, repetitive, or too difficult to understand. And sometimes there is just too much of it! In addition, if you have a full class schedule, homework can quickly become overwhelming.

There are several excuses for not doing homework, whether due to procrastination, lack of motivation, or external forces preventing you from doing it (like your dog eating it). We’ve all been there, so try not to be too hard on yourself. But rest assured, if you get into a situation where you cannot complete your homework, we’ve created this list of excuses that might help ease your anxiety while gaining some sympathy points from your teachers.

Excuses for not doing homework

We researched this topic and asked an English teacher of 35 years about some of her students’ most common and best excuses for not doing homework . She helped us put together the following list:

1. I was sick

Being sick, or claiming that you’re sick, can be used to get out of almost any scenario, including an instance where you did not complete your homework. Who wants to do homework when they are sick? Maybe some people will, but the majority will want to get their rest and recover to their usual selves.

2. My computer crashed

This excuse would not have worked only a couple of decades ago, but today, almost every student relies on their computer or laptop to do their work. So if you don’t have computer access, this is a plausible excuse for not doing your homework on time. 

3. My internet died

Like the excuse above, completing your assigned homework can be difficult if you don’t have internet access. Of course, not all homework relies on an internet connection, but if you need to research a particular topic, then it certainly might.

4. I broke my arm

If you broke your arm or any other bone, that is a believable excuse for not doing your homework. If this is your excuse and you didn’t break a bone, you’ll need to figure out a way to sell it. Is getting a fake cast worth going the extra distance just to get out of a bit of homework? We’ll let you be the judge of that!

5. There was a death in the family

Nobody will question your reasons if there has been a death in your family or of a loved one. This excuse will definitely buy you some time. If nobody actually passed away, you can still use this one with a low chance of getting caught, but it might make you feel guilty inside. This is a good excuse if you can live with yourself for making such a thing up.

6. My bag got stolen

Having your property stolen is another one of those believable excuses for not doing your homework. If you tell your teacher that your bag was stolen and it contained your work, they will give you a pass and some additional sympathy points along the way.

7. I was in a car accident

Being injured in a car accident is another excellent excuse for not doing homework. Not all car injuries are visible, either. So if you were in a fake car crash, you could claim internal injuries or whiplash.

8. I had to work

Unfortunately, many students today need to work a part-time job to pay for things like tuition, books, food, and other items of necessity. If you tell your teacher that you had to work to help out the family or pay for your school, they will give you a pass.

9. I got stuck babysitting my younger siblings

If you’re the older brother or sister, you’ll know that babysitting is part of your job. You will get stuck babysitting from time to time, which might prevent you from completing your homework. 

10. Practice ran later than usual

Being part of extracurricular activities like sports or part of the school band will mean that you’ll need to practice. Sometimes, practice can go longer than anticipated and cut into your normal time when you do homework. 

11. I had a personal issue I was dealing with

Using personal issues as an excuse for not doing homework is good because it’s very open-ended. Personal issues could mean a variety of things; most likely, your teacher won’t pry too much. Saying you’re having personal issues at home might also gain you sympathy points with your teachers.

12. My parents forced me to spend time with them

You might get annoyed with your parents when they want to spend time with you as you get older because you have more important things to do in your eyes. However, it’s tough to blame your parents for wanting to do something as a family. Unfortunately, this time hanging out with them may cut into your homework. This excuse is perfect if your parents are divorced.

13. I have too much homework in other subjects

If you have a lot of homework from different classes, you will need to prioritize what gets done first, especially if you have limited time. This means that sometimes homework will not get done in classes that you feel are less important. If you are going to use this excuse for not doing your homework, you shouldn’t tell your teacher that their class is not essential to you but that you had too much work in other classes that were worth more of your grade.

14. I was in the hospital

If you tell your teacher that you were at the hospital and couldn’t complete the homework, the first thing they should ask is if you are okay. If they do this, you’ll know they are sympathetic toward you. Using the hospital as an excuse to get out of homework is very general; you could have been in the hospital for countless reasons, so pick wisely if you are going to use this one.

15. My pet got sick

Using a sick pet as an excuse for getting out of doing your homework is another believable option. If your teacher is also a pet owner, then they will surely understand your situation. 

16. I thought it was due tomorrow

Claiming ignorance may or may not work, depending on your teacher. You might get a pass if you tell them straight-faced that you thought it was due tomorrow. Make sure to hand in your homework the next day if you are going to use this excuse.

17. Bullies took it away from me and ripped it up

Using bullies as an excuse for not doing your homework is another good way to earn sympathy points from your teacher. The only problem with this excuse is that your teacher will want to know who is bullying you. If you’re making this up, you won’t want to pin the blame on somebody. Also, if you’re telling the truth, exposing your bully may get you into deeper trouble with them. 

18. My baby brother/sister spilled milk all over it

Gahh! Your baby brother or sister spilled milk all over your freshly printed assignment. This excuse is similar to your dog eating it. It might work if your teacher is gullible. 

19. I missed the lesson where it was assigned

This excuse involves playing the ignorance card again. For example, if you were absent earlier in the week when the assignment was given out, you could use this reason for not handing it in. However, your teacher may flip things back on you and tell you that you are responsible for asking someone what you missed. 

20. I was doing volunteer work

Using volunteer work as a reason for not doing homework will, at the very least, portray you as a good person. Whether or not your teacher goes easy on you is another story. 

21. I did it, but I must have forgotten it at home

Claiming that you did your homework but somehow forgot it at home could work, depending on your acting skills. This is another excuse where if you use it, you better hand it in the next day. 

22. It was too easy, so I thought it was a waste of time

You’re a brave individual if you use this excuse with your teachers. If you have demonstrated your intellect with your teachers, and they know that you’re smarter than the other kids, you might get away with this. However, it might make you look like a jerk. 

23. My parents rushed me out the door, and I didn’t get a chance to grab it on the way out

Blaming your parents because you didn’t hand in your homework is a good way to divert the blame to somebody else. Maybe you have a big family, and mornings are always chaotic. If this is your situation, this excuse might be good. 

24. I mixed it up with someone else

If you try to claim that you mixed up your homework with someone else’s, you will need to provide more details to your teacher because this can be confusing. So be prepared to have a backstory ready for why you handed in your brother/sister/friend’s homework instead. 

25. I ate something and had an allergic reaction

Using food poisoning or an allergic reaction to something you ate will buy you a day or two for your homework if your teacher is sympathetic.

26. The homework file on my computer got corrupted

You finally finished your homework and went to save it, but something weird happened, and the file got corrupted. Now, all your assignment reads is a bunch of gibberish, and there is no way to undo it.

27. I was studying for something more important

If you’re getting good grades in a particular class, you can use this excuse and say that you had to study for another class because your grades are not as good. Claiming that it’s more important to get your grades up in another class for your overall GPA will work in this scenario. 

28. I was out of town

If you had to go out of town on short notice, it might leave you with no time to finish your homework. Using this excuse will work if the reason you went out of town appears valid. You could also claim that you were out of town on a family vacation. 

29. I was too tired and fell asleep earlier than usual

Lack of sleep can cause a lot of health problems. If you have insomnia, you know how painful it can be to sleep rarely. If by chance, one night, you were just so tired that you fell asleep earlier, then so be it. You’re not used to sleeping much, so you have to take advantage of the times when you can, even at the expense of not doing your homework.

30. My dog ate it

We’re joking with this one, but we had to add it to the list anyways.  According to the teacher we consulted for this list, this excuse still gets used. Saying your dog ate your homework is another way of saying, “I didn’t do it, and we both know it.”

Funny excuses for not doing homework

If you’re feeling creative and brave, you can use one of these funny excuses for not doing your homework with your teacher. Keep in mind these excuses will probably not work. However, using one of these funny excuses may get a reaction or a laugh out of your teacher. If you can break them down a bit with your comedic approach for why you didn’t do your homework, then that’s one step in the right direction for them to go easy on you.  

• I was attacked by a swarm of bees
• I was stuck in a parallel universe where homework doesn’t exist
• I was cursed by a witch and had to break the spell
• I was trapped inside a magical painting and couldn’t escape
• I was possessed by a demon and lost control of my actions
• I was in a hotdog eating contest and was so full that I couldn’t move after
• TV is just too good right now
• My homework was so well done that I didn’t want to make the other students look bad
• I fell into a giant puddle, and my homework was ruined
• I was abducted by aliens and just returned to Earth

Excuses for not doing homework to use with your parents

If you’ve been able to provide some good excuses for not doing homework to your teachers and they believed them, that’s great, but you’ll also need to work on your parents. Your reasons for not doing homework may work on your teachers, but you’ll have to adapt for your parents because they have more information about your personal life. For example, claiming a family emergency will not work with your parents as it would with your teachers. 

So if you’re at home playing videogames or watching TV instead of doing your homework, try using these excuses with your parents to get them off your back:

1. My teacher extended the deadline

The class was complaining about too much homework, so your teacher did everyone a solid and extended the deadline.

2. I finished everything while I was in school

The teacher gives lots of opportunities to work in class, so I used this time to finish all my homework to chill when I got home.

3. I’m waiting for my classmate to complete their section of the assignment first

I can’t do my homework until my classmates finish their section of our group project. They are the ones slowing me down!

4. Homework is pointless in my class and not worth any marks

My teacher told us that tests and exams make up 100% of our final grade, so there’s no point in doing the homework if it isn’t worth anything. 

5. I already know everything there is to know

I have already studied for the class and know everything there is to know. So doing the homework won’t teach me anything.

6. My teacher went easy on us and didn’t give us any work for a week

The teacher felt bad about giving us so much homework in previous weeks, so they decided not to give the class any more homework for the next week.

7. A substitute teacher is filling in

Our regular teacher is away, and a substitute teacher is filling in. The new substitute teacher does not care what we do since they are only there temporarily. 

8. You’re going to do your homework later on a video chat with your classmates 

You’re taking it easy right now because later at night, you will get on a video chat with classmates and do the work together.

9. My teacher said the homework was optional

My teacher gave us the option to do the homework and said it wouldn’t be graded either way. Normally I would do it regardless, but I didn’t feel like it this time.

10. I’m already getting straight A’s and need a break

I just need a break! I’ve been working so hard lately, and my grades reflect that. If I skip homework for one night, it will not affect my grades.

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Excuses for not doing homework to use with your classmates.

Sometimes you’ll need excuses for not doing homework to use with your classmates, primarily if they are relying on you for group work. For example, if you are working on a project or assignment together and haven’t completed your portion of the work, they might get pissed off. For this reason, it’s good to have excuses you can use with your classmates.

It could be a migraine, a cold, flu, covid-19, or other viruses. You were so sick you couldn’t complete the homework. 

2. My pet was sick

You were worried about your family pet, so you took them to the vet to ensure they were okay. You were there all night worrying about them.

3. There was a power outage at home

The whole block lost power, and as a result, you couldn’t do your share of the homework. The power outage lasted all night, so there was nothing you could do!

4. I thought it was due later

Whoops! You swear you thought it was due later. 

5. My ex was harassing me

You were trying to do the work, but your ex kept harassing you by calling and texting you or even showing up at your front door. Needless to say, you couldn’t get much done because of them.

6. I had no place to work

Typically, you work in your room, but you couldn’t this time because there were renovations taking place in your house. So you had to move all your stuff out of your room, which took forever!

7. My parents forced me to do something 

How annoying! Your parents insisted you do something together as a family. You tried to tell them you had vital homework to do, but they insisted, stating that you don’t spend enough time together.  This excuse works great if your parents are divorced. 

8. I was in an accident

Maybe it was a car accident, or you fell down the stairs. Regardless of the accident, you were too injured to do anything and needed to recover.

9. I was fighting with my partner

Being in a relationship is tough . So tough that sometimes you fight all night with your partner about meaningless topics. Once you two get going, the next thing you know is that it’s past midnight, and you got nothing done. 

10. I’ve been carrying the group all year, and now it’s your turn

It’s time for everybody else to pick up the slack! You’ve been the key to your group’s success in class so far, and you’re tired of carrying everyone else. Sheesh!

What if your teacher or parents are strict and don’t believe your excuses?

Sometimes your excuses for not doing homework will not cut it, no matter how much you try to convince your teacher or parents. They may be so strict that they will not accept any possible reason you may throw at them.

In these scenarios, it’s better to just come clean and explain why your homework isn’t complete without passing the blame. 

This is because if your teacher or parents don’t believe you or care regardless of what you say, you can have a clean conscience by telling the truth. Furthermore, if your parents or teachers know you’re telling the truth, they might have more respect for you and your situation, knowing that you could have blamed it on the dog or an alien abduction. 

How to finish homework faster

If you’re tired of using excuses for not doing your homework and want to become a better student, then it’s a good idea to learn some tips on how to finish your homework faster. If you can finish your homework faster, you’ll have extra time to do the things you want with your friends and family.  This will reduce the stress and anxiety that comes with the feeling of not getting your homework done. Not only will these tips help with getting your homework done faster, but they will also teach you how to get caught up on schoolwork if you’re falling behind.

Here are some tips on how to finish your homework faster:

1. Set up your workstation

The first step is to make sure you are doing your homework in a productive environment. If you do your homework in your room or an office, make sure that your space is neat and tidy. A clear space can equal a clear mind, which can put you in the right mindset before you start working.

2. Make a list of things that need to get done

Make a list of all the things you need to get done. Don’t worry if the list is larger than anticipated. Seeing everything in a list will become satisfying when you start crossing things off it.  Before you know it, your list will shrink in size and eventually disappear.

3. Estimate the time it will take for you to complete each item on your list

It’s a good idea to put a time estimate for all the things on your list. This way, you can start prioritizing items based on time. You can also plan your breaks better this way.

4. Unplug from screens and distractions

If one of your main problems is procrastination, then it is especially important to limit distractions. It’s easy to get wrapped up on Instagram or Tiktok for hours at a time.  Unplug from your phone and any other screen that isn’t necessary for your homework.

5. Start with any outstanding items

If you’re wondering how to get caught up on school work that is outstanding, then you should with all your outstanding items first! Pick the easiest outstanding item to get the ball rolling, then work to finish them all before moving on to tasks with future due dates.

6. Break down larger tasks into smaller ones

If you have a lot of bigger tasks, then you should break them down into smaller ones. For example, if you have to write an essay on a particular topic, break the essay down into smaller chunks like the intro paragraph, the supporting paragraphs, and the conclusion. Make each of those paragraphs a smaller task. It will seem more manageable this way.

7. Start with something small and easy

If you’re really struggling to even get started, then the best thing you can do is just pick the smallest and easiest task on your list of items and do that first. Once you cross it off the list, you might become more motivated to move on to the next item. Keep going from there and build momentum.

8. Take breaks and stretch

Taking breaks is really important for mental and physical well-being. Within every hour, do 50 minutes of concentrated and focused work with a 10-minute break at the end. Stretching is another great thing you can do while on your break to get your blood flowing. Set a timer for 50 minutes, then again for 10 minutes when the 50 minutes elapse. 

9. Stay focused

If you do 1-hour blocks of 50 minutes of work, with 10 minutes of break, then its important that the 50 minutes of work is high quality. Do your best to stay focused on the task at hand. Then, you can release that focus on your 10-minute break. 

10. Relax and reward yourself at the end of your working session

Did you complete your list? A large portion of it? Or did you only complete a few small tasks? If you’ve struggled with homework, then any amount you’ve completed should be a celebration. Even if you only completed 1 task on your list, that’s one task that wasn’t completed yesterday. Make sure to give yourself credit, and reward yourself with whatever makes you happy.  Of course, the more you complete, the bigger the reward!

How to finish homework last minute

There isn’t a method on how to finish homework last minute that will always work. Realistically, you shouldn’t be leaving things until the last minute. However, there is one technique you can try.

If you have an assignment that due the next day, but you haven’t done anything for it, do the absolute bare minimum and hand it in. Pull your teacher aside and say that life got in the way, but you still wanted to submit something. Explain that you aren’t happy with your work, and would kindly request that you can resubmit it again in another few days to show what you’re truly capable of.  

Your teacher might see this as a positive effort and will reward you with a later deadline. Of course, this means that you will need to put more effort into the assignment. If you don’t do it, or hand in something lackluster, then this strategy on how to finish homework last minute will not work again.

If you’re having trouble finishing your assigned work in school, then we hope this list of excuses for not doing homework will help you.  Of course, we always recommend taking an honest approach. However, if you’re feeling embarrassed or ashamed about not finishing your homework again, then try one of these excuses if it makes you feel better.

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how to get out of homework 1 say you sick and your tired and just ignorn the teacher and here you go

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51 Best Homework Excuses (Serious, Funny, Strict Teachers)

Chris Drew (PhD)

Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

Learn about our Editorial Process

Homework. No one wants to do it. But no one wants to get in trouble either. So, here are some of the best homework excuses that are serious, funny, and might even work for strict teachers!

As a teacher myself, I’ve heard most of these excuses. I laughed at a few and rolled my eyes at most.

At the end of the day, you’re only going to get away with not doing homework if you’ve got a solid excuse and a bunch of evidence to back it up. Good luck!

Read Also: 27 Pros and Cons of Homework

Cliché Homework Excuses

These are terrible homework excuses that, really, students should avoid. They might be fun to use, but most of them have been over-used. Your teacher won’t believe you unless you’ve brought some evidence along with you.

1. My Dog ate my Homework. Look, no one’s ever going to believe this one. Maybe avoid it unless you want to spend lunch time inside catching up.

2. My Computer Broke. This one’s more believable but it’s been over-used. Thanks to all the liars out there, this homework excuse is well and truly ruined.

3. My Mom Forgot It. Nothing like blaming your mother for your own failures. Most teachers would probably tell you to take a little personal responsibility and send you on your way.

4. The Internet was Out. As believable as any excuse, your teacher might tell you that you’d better buy yourself an old hardback encyclopedia.

5. My Grandma Died. Again. The oldest excuse in the book, I always ask for evidence of this. Some people seem to have 15 grandmas.

6. The Older Kids Took it off me and Tore it Up. Chances are, your teacher’s going to be very concerned by this. They might even escalate this to a disciplinary issue!

Related: A List of Extension Excuses for College Students

Funny Homework Excuses

These ones might get a laugh out of your teacher and your classmates. But, you’re not likely to get out of trouble in the long run.

7. My Mother wanted to Display it on the Fridge. You might get a few laughs from your friends out of this one. But, your teacher is going to tell you to go home, take it off the fridge, and bring it to class!

8. The Police Confiscated it as Evidence. This one might make your teacher pause and wonder. Why is it confiscated? Is it so poorly written that the police consider it an outrage? Maybe your joke will deflect them from punishing you, though.

9. I was Abducted by Aliens and They took It. If your teacher believes this one, let me know. I’ve got some air guitars to sell them.

10. I sent it to you in the Post. In this day and age, you might have to tell your teacher they should wait a few months to it arrive. The postal service isn’t what it used to be.

11. My Dad mistook it for a Letter and Posted it to China. Funny, but clearly not true. Your teacher is going to ask one simple question: why is your dad sending letters to China?

12. I had to burn it in the Fireplace to keep myself Warm. Like Pablo Escobar burning cash, you’ve thrown caution to the wind and thrown your homework book into the fire because, well, if you didn’t, you wouldn’t have survived the freezing cold night.

13. It flew out the Window of the Car. Just picture it. You’re frantically doing your homework on the drive to school. Your dad winds down the window and – woosh – the homework’s gone for good. And class is in just 15 minutes!

14. I thought I’d do it Tomorrow because I’ll be Older and Wiser Then. A clever joke, but you’re probably going to be known as the class clown from that moment onwa rd!

15. I did my Work. It’s all Up Here in my Head. Be prepared for your teacher to give you a snap quiz on the spot if you’re bold enough to say you’ve got it all in your head! But, if you pull it off, maybe you’ll get away without too much trouble.

16. I didn’t do it because I didn’t want to add to your Workload. Sure, it sounds nice, but your teacher will see right through this cheeky response. But hey, when you’ve got nothing to lose it’s worth a try.

17. My Hand fell Asleep and I didn’t want to Wake It. Imagine you were trying so hard to do your homework and write down those answers. But, your hand just wouldn’t obey your command!

18. My Cat ate it knowing that I’d Blame the Dog. This one’s a funny twist on “my dog ate my homework” that might just get a laugh out of your teacher (and a little bit of leniency).

Related: Excuses for Skipping Class in College

Excuses For Strict Teachers

Okay, here’s where things get serious. If you’ve got a teacher who you know is going to be mad, you need to come into this with a plan. Usually, that means providing evidence to support your excuse.

19. I was Sick. And I have a Sick Note. Being sick (genuinely!) is one of the few reasons for not doing your homework that might actually work. You’re going to want to be able to present a note from your parent and maybe even a doctor.

20. My Mother or Father went to Hospital. And here’s the Sick Note. If your mom or dad is in hospital, chances are you’re going to get a free pass. Bring evidence, even if it’s a photo of dad in the hospital bed with tubes coming out of his nose!

21. My Computer Screen Broke. And here’s a Picture. I’ve actually gotten this one from students a few times and it really took me back. I thought: “is this legit, or is this image from 3 years ago?” A receipt from the computer repair store with a date on it is usually a better piece of evidence. But then again, why didn’t you go to the library?

22. The computer broke, but here are my hand-written notes. I’m usually pretty impressed by this excuse. Your computer broke, but you still made the effort to give the homework a go anyway. Great resilience!

23. The wi-fi didn’t work, but here are my hand-written notes. This excuse is very similar to the previous one. If you turn up with nothing and say the wi-fi broke, the teacher probably won’t accept that excuse. But if you actually tried to write some notes anyway, well done!

24. I wasn’t here when the work was assigned. This is an excellent homework excuse for strict teachers. It’s really quite legitimate. How were you supposed to know you had homework!?

25. I tried, but I didn’t understand the Instructions. This puts the onus back on the teacher. Why didn’t they provide clearer instructions? It’s usually a good idea to show some evidence that you at least gave it a go, though.

26. I volunteer at the soup kitchen on Monday Nights. Everyone loves a good Samaritan. If it gets you out of homework, well, that’s just the universe giving you good karma.

27. I’m so sorry. I thought it was right here in my Bag! This one helps show that it at least is a genuine mistake.

28. I had way too much Homework for my other Class. Follow this one up with “You should talk to that teacher about how their overbearing homework requirements are impacting your students!”

29. The Library was Closed and I don’t have Internet at Home. This one might get you a little more sympathy. The fact you don’t have internet at home means you’re not as privileged as many other kids, so your teacher might let you off lightly.

Related: Fun Things to do when Bored in Class

Truthful Homework Excuses

30. I was too busy doing something more important. Your teacher is instantly going to say “what was more important than your education?” Don’t respond with “video games.”

31. My parents kept me really busy on the weekend. But I promise I’ll do it tonight. One thing I would say about this excuse is that you’re saying “Hey, take it up with my parents. I wanted to do some homework!” But, you’re also saying you’ve got a plan to get it done asap.

32. I was at football practice all night. Many teachers will still say “learning comes before sports” (which, as a teacher, I agree with). But, you’ve got a leg to stand on here. You don’t want to let your team down, which is fair.

33. I did my homework, but I left it at home. This excuse does show that you at least put the effort in. But, you failed at the finish line! Come to class tomorrow with the homework and you’ll win back some respect from your teacher.

34. I forgot I even had homework. Hey, it’s truthful. But you’re not going to get any sympathy for this one.

35. The computer didn’t break. It was the Printer this time! An excuse that’s almost as bad as “my computer broke”, the printer issues excuse at least needs some photographic evidence to back it up. And, why didn’t you email the homework to your teacher?

36. I had a Headache. Headaches are the worst. As a teacher myself, I’d probably have a little sympathy for this excuse if it’s a one-off. But, I’d expect my student to bring a note from the parent to corroborate the story.

37. The homework was far too Easy. This isn’t a good reason not to do homework. Your teacher is going to expect you to absolutely ace your next test.

38. My tutor accidentally took it home with them. Nothing like blaming your tutor for your own problems. As a teacher, I’d probably roll my eyes and tell you that you need to keep better track of your things.

39. I accidentally squished it in the bottom of my bag and now it’s got rotten apple juice all over it. This one’s funny to me because, well, as a kid this always used to happen to me. Rotten bananas were usually the culprit.

40. I spilled cereal all over it because I was doing it over breakfast. This sounds believable. I would tell my student the should at least show me the ruined homework as evidence. And, I’d also tell them that breakfast isn’t the best time to do your homework.

See a List of 11 Homework Statistics

Blame the Parents

41. My parents don’t believe in homework and won’t let me do it. There are some parents like this. If a student said this to me, I’d be on the phone to the parents. So, if you don’t want your teacher to call your parents, don’t use this excuse.

42. My mother said band practice was more important. It’s really hard for teachers to argue with parents via the student. But in my experience the teacher usually responds with: “you need to have better organization skills to get all of these things done in your own time!”

43. I help my father at work on a Tuesday afternoon. I just can’t get it done on Tuesdays. Once again, the teacher is likely going to tell you to have more organization skills. But, you might occasionally get an extension out of this. Especially if you let the teacher know in advance.

44. My father looked at it, said it was outrageous government indoctrination, and told me not to do it. While I think this is hilarious, it’s also something that happens a lot these days. Why is this world so divided? Science isn’t controversial, people!

45. My mother was looking over my homework and forgot to give it back to me. Okay, time for me to put my teacher voice on: “She didn’t forget to give it back to you. You forgot to ask for it back.”

46. My mother threw it in the trash. This must have been frustrating to you! A teacher with a quick wit will respond: “it shouldn’t have looked like trash then. You must have done a bad job!” Or, a more serious teacher might just tell you that you need to be more organized net time.

Blame the Teachers

47. You give too much Homework. There are plenty of people out there in this world who think teachers do give too much homework. They believe it’s not fair and it’s preventing children from leading a balanced and healthy life.

48. Your instructions are impossible to understand. This one really puts the pressure back on the teacher because you’re basically telling them that they’re bad at their job.

49. This was way too hard for me. You need to give me more guidance. Sometimes, it’s true, teachers do assign homework that’s way too hard. You do need to be resourceful and find ways to learn yourself. But at the same time, the teacher really should know better.

50. The homework is too easy. It’s a complete waste of my time. Assigning homework is like playing Goldilocks. It can’t be too hard, can’t be too easy.

51. Between you and all my other teachers, you’re assigning hours of homework every night. You all need to get together and resolve this. This one’s surely going to set a cat amongst the pigeons. The teachers are going to talk about this at their next staff meeting. But, they might coordinate and come back at you as a united front!

FAQ: How to Get Out of Doing Homework?

The best ways to get out of doing homework are to:

• Let the teacher know in advance that you won’t be able to do it. Teachers respond better when you give them an excuse before time, not after.
• Bring evidence of why you didn’t do it. If you want your teacher to truly believe your excuse, you need evidence. This can be notes, photos, receipts, or anything else proving your story is true.

Really, the best way to avoid any issues is to just do the homework in the first place. But if you’re reading this article, chances are the horses have left the stable. You’re at a stage where you’ve got to come up with an excuse because in 10 minutes your teacher is going to be asking you why you haven’t done anything!

Well, good luck with that! I hope you don’t get into too much trouble, but I also hope you learn that next time the best solution is to just get that homework done in advance.

• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 25 Number Games for Kids (Free and Easy)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 25 Word Games for Kids (Free and Easy)
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 25 Outdoor Games for Kids
• Chris Drew (PhD) https://helpfulprofessor.com/author/chris-drew-phd-2/ 50 Incentives to Give to Students

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Good Excuses For Not Doing Homework [Complete Guide]

When the pile of homework seems insurmountable, having valid Excuses for Not Doing Homework can be a lifesaver. In this straightforward guide, we provide practical and genuine reasons for students who find themselves unable to complete their assignments.

Table of Contents

30 Stunning Excuses for not doing homework

In the world of academics, when homework piles up and time runs short, having “Stunning Excuses for Not Doing Homework” can be a game-changer. In this concise guide, we present innovative and genuine reasons that students can employ when faced with the daunting task of unfinished assignments.

1. I WAS SICK

It’s a classic excuse, and being genuinely ill can indeed hinder homework completion. When using this excuse, it’s crucial to convey your sincerity to your teacher.

If you’re not genuinely sick , consider the ethical aspect. Faking illness is not recommended, and it’s essential to maintain trust with your teachers. Instead, try to manage your time better to avoid last-minute homework crises.

2. MY COMPUTER CRASHED

When you explain this to your teacher, be honest about the issue and express your frustration. They may offer an extension or suggest alternative ways to complete the assignment .

3. MY INTERNET DIED

Ensure that your teacher understands the necessity of internet access for the specific assignment. In the meantime, you can try to complete any offline portions of your homework.

Always have a backup plan for internet access, such as using a mobile data connection or a nearby library, to prevent this excuse from becoming a recurring issue.

4. I BROKE MY ARM

Remember that honesty is essential. Faking an injury is not recommended, as it can lead to serious consequences and damage your credibility with teachers.

5. THERE WAS A DEATH IN THE FAMILY

However, consider the ethical implications of using this excuse falsely. Faking a family death is highly inappropriate and can have severe consequences.

Be prepared to provide some documentation or information about the situation, but remember that you’re not obliged to share more than you’re comfortable with.

6. MY BAG GOT STOLEN

Provide details about what was in your bag and explain the urgency of the situation. Teachers are generally sympathetic to theft-related issues.

7. I WAS IN A CAR ACCIDENT

When informing your teacher, be honest about the impact of the accident on your ability to complete homework. Mention any physical or emotional distress you’re experiencing.

Only use this excuse when it’s valid, and prioritize your recovery over homework.

8. I HAD TO WORK

Many students have part-time jobs to support themselves or their families. If work commitments prevent you from completing homework, discuss your situation with your teacher in advance.

Explain the importance of your job for your financial stability and your commitment to your studies. Most teachers will be accommodating if they know your circumstances.

9. I GOT STUCK BABYSITTING MY YOUNGER SIBLINGS

Highlight your commitment to your family while also emphasizing your commitment to your education .

Try to create a schedule that balances your babysitting responsibilities and homework time to avoid last-minute issues.

10. PRACTICE RAN LATER THAN USUAL

Extracurricular activities like sports or band practice can extend beyond their expected duration. Inform your teacher about your commitment to these activities and the unexpected delay in returning home .

Express your dedication to both academics and extracurriculars. Teachers often appreciate students who are involved in school activities.

11. I HAD A FAMILY EMERGENCY

Be honest and considerate of your family’s privacy while explaining the circumstances to your teacher.

12. MY PET REQUIRED IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION

Pets are like family to many people, and their health issues can be concerning. If your pet needs urgent care , let your teacher know and explain the situation.

Be sure to provide any necessary documentation from the veterinarian or proof of the emergency vet visit . Ensure your pet’s well-being and then address your homework responsibilities.

13. I’M FACING TECHNICAL ISSUES WITH A SPECIFIC SOFTWARE

14. i had a mental health crisis.

Mental health is as crucial as physical health . If you’re experiencing a mental health crisis, inform your teacher honestly and express your need for time to address your well-being.

15. I WAS VOLUNTEERING FOR A CHARITY EVENT

Volunteering for a worthy cause is commendable. If your volunteer work unexpectedly extended into your homework time, explain your commitment to community service and ask for an extension.

Highlight the valuable skills and experiences gained through volunteering. Balance your volunteering commitments with your academic responsibilities by planning your schedule effectively.

16. MY NOTES WERE STOLEN

17. i’m experiencing family conflict.

Family conflicts can be emotionally draining. If you find yourself in the midst of such a situation, communicate with your teacher about the emotional strain it’s causing.

18. MY NEIGHBORHOOD EXPERIENCED A NATURAL DISASTER

Share your concern for your community’s safety and well-being. Prepare an emergency kit and have backup plans for studying during power outages.

19. I’M DEALING WITH A SERIOUS MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS

20. i’m experiencing technical difficulties with my school’s online platform.

Technical issues with your school’s online platform can be frustrating. If these problems prevent you from accessing or submitting homework, report them to your teacher.

21. I’M TRAVELING FOR A FAMILY EVENT

Express your commitment to your family while recognizing your academic responsibilities. Plan your travel and homework schedule carefully to avoid last-minute conflicts.

22. I LOST MY WORK DUE TO A FILE CORRUPTION

23. i’m facing a language barrier.

If you’re learning a new language and struggling to understand the homework, reach out to your teacher for assistance.

24. MY CALCULATORS OR SUPPLIES WERE STOLEN

Request an extension to acquire replacement supplies or borrow from a classmate. Keep your school supplies secure and consider labeling them to prevent theft.

25. I’M EXPERIENCING A POWER OUTAGE

26. i’m struggling with a personal crisis.

Personal crises, such as a breakup or a challenging family situation, can be emotionally taxing. Communicate with your teacher about the crisis and its impact on your ability to focus on homework.

17. I’M EXPERIENCING A HOUSING INSTABILITY

Emphasize your commitment to resolving housing instability and your dedication to your education. Connect with housing support services in your community to address the instability more effectively.

28. I’M STRUGGLING WITH TIME MANAGEMENT

Sometimes, students struggle with time management and find themselves unable to complete homework due to procrastination or over commitment to other activities.

Acknowledge the issue and ask your teacher for guidance on improving time management skills. Consider seeking assistance from a teacher or counselor to develop effective time management strategies.

29. I’M FACING TRANSPORTATION ISSUES

Lack of reliable transportation can be a barrier to completing homework, especially if you rely on public transportation. Notify your teacher about transportation challenges and their impact on your ability to access resources or attend school.

30. I’M STRUGGLING WITH MOTIVATION

Sometimes, students experience a lack of motivation , making it challenging to complete homework. Be honest with your teacher about your motivation struggles and ask for strategies to stay on track.

Express your desire to overcome this issue and succeed academically. Seek inspiration from classmates, teachers, or online resources to boost motivation and focus on your studies.

Resources Consulted For Research On This Article

Daniel Wong

11 Excuses for Not Doing Homework (And How to Stop Making Them)

Updated on August 6, 2024 By Daniel Wong 6 Comments

If you’re like many students, you’d rather take a nap, talk to your friends online, or play video games.

As you already know, finding reasons not to do your homework will prevent you from succeeding in school .

I’m sure you want to do well in school, and homework is definitely a part of that process.

In this article, I’ll go over 11 of the most common excuses for not doing homework and offer solutions to ensure that you stay engaged in school.

But first, make sure to download your free quick action guide…

FREE  QUICK ACTION GUIDE:  

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12 Guaranteed Ways for Students to Improve Focus and Reduce Procrastination .  

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Excuse #1: You lack the required knowledge

Let your parents and teacher know if you’re taking a class and feel as if you lack the necessary skills or knowledge to complete the homework.

Ask your teacher for extra guidance so you don’t fall too far behind. See if your parents can find the time to help you, or you can look for a tutor.

Your teachers are there to help you develop the skills you need to do well in their classes.

You’re not alone in feeling that you lack the necessary skills, so don’t be too embarrassed to ask for assistance. You might even find some great study buddies who feel the same way.

Excuse #2: You lack confidence

Many students compare themselves to their peers, which can lead to a lack of confidence. When that happens, it’s easy to make excuses for not doing the homework.

But here’s what you need to know…

Everyone lacks confidence about something.

You might be good at math but need extra help with English. Perhaps you excel at geography but find biology confusing.

Give yourself a break.

If you lack confidence in your ability to learn a particular subject, get the support you need. Your teachers, parents, and even friends will help you out and give you a needed morale boost.

Excuse #3: Your home life is too hectic

The excuses for submitting assignments late are numerous, but one that I hear often is that it’s too busy or noisy at home to focus.

Finding a quiet space and using earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones can help reduce distractions. This will make it easier for you to finish your homework.

If that doesn’t work, try finding an alternative location to do your work, like the library or a friend’s house.

You can also talk to your parents about it. They might not even be aware of all the interruptions that are preventing you from completing your schoolwork.

Excuse #4: You don’t know where to start

Feeling anxious and overwhelmed are often the main reasons that cause students to not know where to start on their homework.

If you ever feel this way, here’s what I suggest you do:

• Take a deep breath.
• Create a space where you can get organised.
• Make a list of all your assignments and deadlines.
• Work on one assignment at a time.
• Start with an easy assignment to get a quick win, or tackle the most challenging assignment to get it out of the way.

Excuse #5: You have poor study habits

Many students develop bad study habits over their years in school.

Not everyone learns the same way or at the same pace. As such, every student will have different study habits. If what you’re doing isn’t working, try a different approach.

If you’re trying to do your homework as soon as you get home from school but can’t focus, try having a snack and taking a power nap before getting to work instead.

If you’re staying up too late studying, set a rule for yourself that you’ll start doing your homework within one hour of getting home.

Establish a routine where you do your work at roughly the same time each day. Developing routines like this will improve your study habits , which will make you a more effective student.

Excuse #6: School isn’t important to you

A common misconception is that school isn’t important, that what you learn won’t be relevant once you leave school.

This isn’t completely true.

Of course, the education system can be improved. But the knowledge you acquire in school will help you to understand and appreciate the world better.

And the process of becoming a more effective student will lead you to develop traits like self-discipline and responsibility. These are the types of traits you’ll need in order to find success at any stage of life!

Excuse #7: You’re overloaded with after-school activities

I know it can be tough to balance schoolwork and extracurricular activities.

Maybe you’re on a sports team or you spend several hours each week volunteering.

Finding the right balance to ensure you have enough time for homework can be challenging.

When too many afterschool activities get in the way of completing your assignments on time, it’s time to review your schedule. Decide how you can prioritise the activities that are the most important.

You may need to put some activities on hold until you’re consistently staying on top of your schoolwork.

Speak with your coach, teachers, or parents about the ideas they have to help you manage your schedule more effectively.

Excuse #8: Studying is boring for you

If you find that doing your homework is uninteresting, it may be time for you to change your point of view.

I always encourage students to cultivate a growth mindset . This is a mindset where you focus more on the learning process instead of on getting good grades.

Rather than seeing a particular subject as boring, develop a sense of wonder. Decide that you’re going to be intellectually curious, and you’ll discover that we live in a fascinating world.

And while you’re on that journey, remember that the students who succeed in school find ways to get the work done even when they find the subject boring.

For example, if you don’t like math, consider that it isn’t just about numbers – it’s a way of thinking.

Reframing how you think about a subject will enable you to see it as more interesting. In turn, you’ll become a better student over time.

Excuse #9: Your teachers assign too much homework

Sometimes, it may seem like your teachers assign more homework than you can keep up with. You might even believe that what you’re required to do is unreasonable.

If you find yourself in this situation, take a moment to think about everything else you’re doing.

Are you managing your time well?

Are you struggling with a particular class?

Do you use memory techniques to enable you to learn faster ?

Instead of allowing homework to overwhelm you, try talking to your teacher, tutor, or parents to figure out the best way forward for you.

Excuse #10: You already have so much overdue homework

Procrastinating on your homework can lead to a significant pile-up of assignments. This will affect your confidence in being able to complete them.

What’s more, once you get a set of new assignments, you probably won’t know how to do them because you didn’t do the previous assignments.

This creates a vicious cycle where you tell yourself that there’s no point in completing your newly assigned homework because you still have the old ones to do.

When this happens, the likelihood of completing any of the work decreases.

If you’re in this situation, set a reasonable goal of keeping up with all the newly assigned homework while completing, say, one overdue assignment a day, or one overdue assignment every two days.

Excuse #11: You don’t believe you can get good grades

If you hate school, there’s a chance that it’s because you feel the pressure to be a straight-A student .

Here’s the good news: You don’t need to be perfect. After all, there’s no such thing as a perfect student.

But you do have to put in the effort and get the work done. The rest will then fall into place.

If you’re doing your best, you’re doing great! Celebrate your progress and keep moving forward.

Take it one step at a time, and don’t worry too much about what grades you’re getting at the moment.

In closing…

There are many possible reasons for you not to finish your homework.

No matter what those reasons are, it’s important to know that the people around you want to help you succeed.

From teachers to parents to coaches, you have a support network to provide solutions to almost any obstacle you face.

Identify the excuses listed in this article that are relevant to your situation, and apply the suggested solutions.

If you do that, you’ll become a better and happier student who makes far fewer excuses related to homework!

July 7, 2022 at 12:13 pm

Thank you so much for this article. These were the problems I was struggling with. Now that i know the solutions to it ,I’m sure I’ll do better than before.

July 7, 2022 at 1:05 pm

You’re very welcome.

July 7, 2022 at 6:20 pm

I pray that may Almighty God grant you long life, more knowledge, sound health, rest of mind, wealth and happiness, so that you can witness your good impact in this World 🌍. GOD has made you a useful tool for every students and parents that is actually seeking success.

July 7, 2022 at 7:42 pm

Thank you, God bless you too!

July 27, 2022 at 9:29 pm

Thank you so much for this. I have found a couple of solutions for excuses I’ve made in the past. I needed this.

July 27, 2022 at 9:42 pm

You’re welcome.

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15 Good Excuses for When You Forgot to Do Your Homework

By: Author Hiuyan Lam

Posted on Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories Social Responses

Having to do a ton of homework after a long day at school isn’t a great feeling. But, if you don’t do it, you’ll get in trouble if you don’t have good excuses not to do homework.

Instead of settling for a zero, you need to come up with good excuses to convince your teacher to give you a pass. These excuses not to do homework must be rock solid or else you might end up in even more trouble.

Saying the dog ate it is not a good excuse not to do homework, so don’t even think about using that one. Here are 15 of the best excuses not to do homework that are guaranteed to work:

Things to pay attention to before making up excuses not to do homework

  Before you go ahead and make up your excuses not to do homework, there are some things you must pay attention to. This will let you know if the excuse will work or not.   The main things are:  

4 excuses about blaming family when you forgot to do your homework

  Sometimes family can come in the way of getting your homework done on time. This can be because of a toxic home environment, or simply because a lot is going on at the moment.   Here are 4 good excuses not to do homework that can be blamed on your family:  

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3 excuses that blame technology

  As reliable as technology is these days, certain things may happen that will make it difficult for you to complete your homework assignments.   Here are 3 excuses not to complete homework that you can blame on technology:  

15 Good Excuses to Miss Class without Being Caught Lying

3 excuses for when you have conflicts

  Unfortunately, teachers can sometimes put too much pressure on students to complete homework.   Students might end up with a ton of homework that has to go in the same day, or experience scheduling conflicts with their extracurriculars.   If this is your experience, here are 3 excuses not to do homework:  

5 excuses for when you blame yourself

  If there isn’t anyone to blame but yourself, it’s always a better idea to go with the truth than a lie. Being able to hold yourself accountable says a lot and it is obvious to seasoned teachers when students are grasping at straws.   Here are 5 excuses not to do homework when it’s all your fault:  

  Now that you have your excuses not to do homework, please don’t take advantage of them.   Sure, homework might be no fun, but it will be helpful in the long run and you’ll find that when test time comes, you’ll have an easier time recalling what you have learned!  

Excuses for Not Doing Homework and Getting Away with It

Homework: a dreaded task for many students. When faced with an unfinished assignment, the temptation to concoct an elaborate excuse can be overwhelming. Common excuses for not doing homework can range from:

• Difficulty comprehending the assignment
• Being swamped with other coursework
• A stolen backpack
• Malfunctioning computer, etc.

Other students might claim confusion over the instructions, a packed extracurricular schedule, or simply forgetting that homework was assigned.

While these excuses might temporarily alleviate the immediate pressure, they do little to address the underlying issue: the unfinished assignment. Instead of resorting to creative storytelling, students might consider seeking assistance. A platform like DME offers a practical solution by providing expert help with any type of homework. Rather than spending time and energy crafting the perfect excuse, you can focus on learning and improving your academic performance with our help.

I Had Trouble Comprehending The Assignment

This excuse is a classic for a reason: it's often believable. If the assignment was genuinely complex or poorly explained, it can be a valid reason for not completing it on time. By expressing confusion about the task, students can appear diligent and eager to learn rather than careless or lazy.

It works best when the assignment is truly challenging or if the instructions are unclear or ambiguous. It can also be effective if the subject matter is new to the student or if the assignment requires a specific skill set that they haven't yet mastered. However, overuse of this excuse can make it less credible, so it's important to use it sparingly.

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I Was Unwell And Couldn't Complete It

This excuse taps into a universal human experience: illness. When used strategically, it can be a powerful tool for avoiding the consequences of unfinished homework. By claiming to be too sick to complete the assignment, you can evoke sympathy and understanding from teachers.

This excuse works best when accompanied by visible symptoms, such as a cough, runny nose, or red eyes. However, it's important to be cautious about overusing this excuse, as it can raise suspicion if used frequently. Additionally, providing too many details about the illness can be counterproductive.

My Backpack Was Stolen, And I Lost All My Materials

This can be quite effective when executed correctly. By adding specific details, students can increase the credibility of their stories.

• Where and when the theft occurred: The more specific the location and time, the more believable the story becomes. For example, "My backpack was stolen from my locker between the third and fourth period today."
• What was stolen: List specific items that were in the backpack, such as textbooks, notebooks, and the homework assignment. This can help to reinforce the loss and make the excuse more impactful.
• Steps taken to recover the backpack: Describe any efforts made to recover the stolen items, such as filing a police report or contacting the school administration. This demonstrates that the student is taking responsibility for the situation.

My Computer Malfunctioned And I Couldn't Access My Work

This excuse has become increasingly common in our technology-dependent world. A malfunctioning computer can be a legitimate obstacle to completing homework, especially if the assignment requires the use of specific software or online resources.

• Nature of the malfunction: Clearly describe the problem. Did the computer freeze, crash, or experience a power outage? Be specific about the issue.
• Attempts to resolve the problem: Explain what steps were taken to fix the computer, such as restarting, troubleshooting, or seeking help from a tech-savvy friend or family member.
• Loss of data: If applicable, mention that important files or the homework itself were lost due to the malfunction.

While this excuse can be effective, it's important to remember that technology can be unpredictable. Backing up your work regularly can help mitigate the risk of data loss.

I Found The Homework Confusing

This can be a straightforward approach that can be effective when you can't motivate yourself to do homework . It implies that you made a genuine effort but were unable to grasp the assignment's requirements.

When to use it:

• If the homework directions are vague or contradictory, claiming confusion can be valid.
• For complex subjects like math or science, where concepts can be challenging, expressing confusion can be believable.
• If the homework covers material that hasn't been thoroughly taught in class, claiming confusion can be justified.

How to use it:

• Instead of simply saying, "I found it confusing," elaborate on the specific parts you didn't understand. This demonstrates genuine effort.
• Express your desire to complete the assignment correctly and ask for clarification or help. This portrays you as a responsible student.
• Frequent use of this excuse can make it less credible.

I Was Overloaded With Assignments From Another Class

Claiming to be overwhelmed by assignments from another class can be a convincing excuse; you just can't concentration on homework . It taps into the relatable experience of juggling multiple academic responsibilities. To make this excuse more effective, students often specify the demanding class and the nature of the overwhelming assignments. For instance, detailing a major history project due on the same day can bolster the claim.

However, to sound authentic, it's important to convey the impression of effective time management gone awry. You might explain how you attempted to balance both workloads but ultimately fell short. This demonstrates awareness of your responsibilities without appearing careless.

I Missed The Class When The Homework Was Given

While claiming to have missed the class when the homework was assigned can be a viable option, it's essential to approach it with caution and sincerity. Here are some additional tips:

• Be specific about the absence: Was it a doctor's appointment, a family emergency, or a school-related event? Providing specific details can enhance credibility.
• Show that you've taken steps to catch up : Mention that you've contacted a classmate to get the assignment details or that you plan to visit the teacher during office hours.
• Avoid overusing this excuse: Frequent absences for this reason can raise suspicions. Use this excuse sparingly and only when absolutely necessary.

Tired of Making Excuses?

Ditch the drama, ace your assignments. Let DMEssay handle the homework hassle.

My Schedule Was Packed With Extracurricular Activities And Volunteer Work

This excuse can be particularly effective when combined with evidence of genuine involvement. Students might mention specific accomplishments, awards, or leadership roles within their extracurricular activities. For instance, detailing the hours spent practicing for a sports team or organizing a community service event can strengthen the claim of a time crunch.

However, it's crucial to maintain a balance between showcasing achievements and appearing overly boastful. You should emphasize the challenges of managing a demanding schedule rather than bragging about your accomplishments. Additionally, expressing genuine regret for missing the assignment and a willingness to make it up can help mitigate potential negative consequences.

I Don't Recall Receiving Any Homework

This excuse is a risky one, as it can easily be challenged. It's best used when there's genuine uncertainty about the assignment. To make this excuse more believable, you might mention checking your notes or planner and finding no record of the homework. Expressing confusion and a willingness to complete the assignment once it's clarified can also help mitigate potential negative consequences.

But be careful not to sound careless. Show you're ready to do the work as soon as you know what it is. Remember, it's usually better to be honest. If you really don't remember, just ask the teacher nicely to explain the homework again.

Be Honest About Why It Wasn't Done

This might seem like the most obvious choice, but it's often the best excuse for not doing homework. Honesty can build trust between a student and a teacher. If the homework simply wasn't a priority, or if the student procrastinated, admitting this can show maturity and a willingness to take responsibility.

Of course, honesty should be balanced with taking steps to rectify the situation. Offering to complete the assignment as soon as possible or asking for an extension demonstrates a commitment to learning.

Remember, while excuses might temporarily alleviate the pressure, honesty and responsibility are key to building a positive relationship with teachers and fostering a strong learning environment.

Final Thoughts

When faced with overwhelming workloads, consider these good excuses for not doing homework:

• Claiming difficulty understanding an assignment
• Being overloaded by other coursework
• Reporting losing your assignments or necessary materials
• Occasionally, admitting to procrastination or a lack of interest.

If you're struggling to complete assignments, considering professional assistance can be a game-changer. Platforms like DME offer expert help with a wide range of subjects, providing you with the opportunity to excel academically without resorting to excuses. Simply ask us - do homework for me and let us build a strong foundation for your future success.

How to Make a Believable Excuse for not Doing Homework?

What is a good excuse for late homework.

100 Excuses for Not Doing Homework

Homework, a word students all over the world are familiar with, brings both fear and responsibility. It’s a crucial part of learning, helping us practice what we learn in class and teaching us discipline and time management. However, sometimes unexpected things happen, and students face real challenges that make finishing homework tough. 

In this blog, we’ll explore 100 excuses for not doing homework. Some excuses are funny excuses for not doing homework, while some are genuine and good excuses for not doing homework. So make sure to check them all one by one.

Students often use these excuses when they find homework overwhelming. While these excuses might seem like a quick fix, it’s important to remember that being honest and responsible is essential. Instead, let’s focus on taking a proactive approach to our studies, asking for help when needed, and using time wisely. By understanding and tackling the obstacles that come our way, we can create a strong foundation for success in school and personal growth. Let’s make homework less daunting and more manageable together!

Common 100 Excuses for Not Doing Homework

• Family Emergencies: Sometimes, unexpected family situations may require our immediate attention, leaving us with no time to complete homework.
• Technical Issues: Computer crashes or internet problems can hinder our ability to access and submit assignments.
• Sickness: Falling sick can affect our productivity, making it challenging to concentrate on homework.
• Lack of Resources: Not having access to necessary textbooks or materials can impede progress.
• Extra-Curricular Activities: Involvement in sports, arts, or other activities can leave little time for homework completion.
• Overwhelming Workload: Having too much homework from different subjects can be daunting to handle.
• Time Management: Poor time management skills might lead to insufficient time for homework.
• Misplacement: Misplacing your homework or notes can create a genuine obstacle.
• Personal Issues: Emotional or personal problems can impact our focus and motivation to complete homework.
• Weather Conditions: Severe weather conditions, such as heavy rain or snowstorms, may disrupt internet connectivity or power supply.
• Power Outage: Unexpected power outages can prevent you from working on electronic devices.
• Traveling: Being away from home or school due to travel can limit your ability to complete homework.
• Lack of Motivation: Feeling unmotivated or uninterested in the subject can result in procrastination.
• Distractions at Home: Noise or disturbances at home can make it hard to concentrate.
• Technology Addiction: Spending too much time on electronic devices can lead to distractions and reduced focus on homework.
• Family Obligations: Helping with household chores or taking care of younger siblings can consume homework time.
• Personal Injuries: Physical injuries may restrict your ability to write or use a computer.
• Mental Fatigue: Being mentally exhausted after a long day at school can impact productivity.

• Lack of Sleep: Insufficient sleep can make it difficult to concentrate on homework.
• Classwork Overload: Teachers assigning lengthy in-class tasks can leave little time for homework.
• Internet Research Challenges: Difficulty finding relevant information online can slow down the completion process.
• Commute Time: Long travel times to and from school can cut into homework time.
• Celebrations and Festivals: Preparing for special occasions can make it challenging to focus on homework.
• Exam Preparation: Prioritizing exam revision might leave less time for regular homework.
• Group Project Issues: Dependence on group members’ progress can lead to delays in submitting assignments.
• School Events: Participation in school events and activities can affect homework time.
• Lack of Understanding: Struggling to grasp the concepts covered in class can make homework difficult.
• Teacher Absence: When teachers are absent, it may lead to confusion about the assignment.
• Change in Schedule: Unforeseen changes in the school timetable can disrupt homework routines.
• Personal Loss: Coping with the loss of a loved one can interfere with completing homework.
• Technological Glitches: Software or hardware malfunctions can cause delays in finishing assignments.
• Pet Responsibilities: Taking care of pets can take up time meant for homework.
• Mental Health Issues: Struggling with mental health challenges can impact productivity.
• Internet Restrictions: Parental controls or school firewalls can limit access to online resources.
• Noisy Environment: Working in a loud environment can hinder concentration.
• Field Trips: Participating in educational outings can lead to postponing homework.
• Unforeseen Visitors: Unexpected guests can disrupt your homework schedule.
• Allergy Season: Seasonal allergies can lead to discomfort and reduced productivity.
• Sports Injuries: Injuries sustained during sports activities may hinder the ability to complete homework.
• Lack of Support: Lack of parental support or guidance can affect academic performance.
• Heavy Traffic: Being stuck in traffic can delay getting home to do homework.
• Incomplete Lecture: Incomplete or unclear explanations in class can make homework difficult.
• Classroom Disturbances: Disruptions during class can hinder learning and understanding.
• Volunteer Work: Involvement in volunteer activities can consume time required for homework.
• Power Struggles: Family arguments and disagreements can distract from homework.
• Exam Anxiety: Preparing for upcoming exams might take precedence over regular assignments.
• Power Surges: Power surges can damage electronic devices, affecting homework completion.
• Social Events: Being invited to social gatherings can disrupt homework routines.
• Peer Pressure: Engaging in peer activities instead of focusing on homework can be tempting.
• School Projects: Major school projects may consume significant time and effort.
• Incomplete Class Notes: Inadequate or messy class notes can hinder homework understanding.
• Communal Computer: Sharing a computer with family members can limit access.
• Teacher Miscommunication: Miscommunication about the homework assignment can cause confusion.
• Slow Internet: Slow internet speed can lead to delays in online research.
• Sudden Power Cuts: Sudden power cuts can disrupt your work on electronic devices.
• Late School Hours: Extended school hours can leave less time for homework.
• Weekend Commitments: Weekend commitments can impact completing homework.
• Unforeseen School Events: Unexpected school activities can interfere with homework.
• Cultural Celebrations: Cultural festivities might require time away from homework.
• Home Repairs: Home repairs or maintenance can disrupt your homework environment.
• Language Barriers: Struggling with language barriers can slow down comprehension.
• Internet Safety Concerns: Parental concerns about online safety may limit internet usage for homework.
• Lost or Broken Materials: Losing or breaking essential materials can delay homework.
• Noisy Siblings: Noisy siblings can make it difficult to concentrate on homework.
• Inadequate Lighting: Poor lighting conditions can strain your eyes while doing homework.
• Lack of School Supplies: Not having the necessary stationery can hinder progress.
• Teacher’s Absenteeism: Frequent teacher absenteeism can delay assignment explanations.
• Online School Platform Glitches: Technical issues with online platforms can disrupt homework completion.
• Change in Family Routine: Changes in family routines can affect homework schedules.
• Parent’s Travel: When parents travel, it may lead to disruptions in completing homework.
• Exam Schedules: Preparing for multiple exams can take precedence over regular homework.
• School Safety Drills: School safety drills can interrupt class time for homework explanations.
• Change in Syllabus: Changes in the syllabus may require extra time for adjustment.
• School System Changes: Transitions to a new school system can be challenging.
• Academic Pressure: Feeling overwhelmed by academic expectations can impact productivity.
• Unexpected All-Nighters: Staying up late to complete assignments from other subjects.
• Sporting Events: Participating in sports events can interfere with homework time.
• School Trips: Educational trips can lead to postponing homework.
• Overdue Library Books: Returning overdue library books may require additional time.
• Misunderstood Instructions: Misunderstanding the assignment can lead to errors and delays.
• Power Cables Damaged: Damaged power cables can affect electronic devices.
• Broken or Malfunctioning Printer: Printing issues can delay submitting physical assignments.
• Cultural Obligations: Cultural obligations may demand time away from homework.
• Lack of Encouragement: Lack of encouragement from teachers can affect motivation.
• Overcommitment: Committing to too many activities can leave little time for homework.
• Seasonal Distractions: Seasonal events or holidays can disrupt homework routines.
• Internet Outages: Internet outages in the area can hinder online research.
• Personal Projects: Engaging in personal creative projects can consume time.
• Inadequate Workspace: Having an uncomfortable workspace can affect productivity.
• Cluttered Work Area: A cluttered work area can lead to disorganization and inefficiency.
• Transport Issues: Transportation problems can hinder timely submission of homework.
• Unresolved Conflict: Unresolved conflicts with peers or teachers can affect focus.
• Sleep Disorders: Suffering from sleep disorders can impact productivity.
• Online Distractions: Getting sidetracked by social media or online games while doing homework.
• Difficult Concepts: Struggling with complex concepts can slow down homework progress.
• Part-Time Job: Balancing part-time work and school can be challenging.
• Inconsistent Study Habits: Inconsistent study habits can lead to incomplete assignments.
• Bullying: Dealing with bullying can negatively impact academic performance.
• Transportation Strikes: Transportation strikes can disrupt school attendance and homework completion.
• Lost Stationery: Losing essential stationery can delay completing written assignments.

While these 100 excuses may seem like a comprehensive list, remember that using excuses for not doing homework should only be a last resort. Being honest with teachers and taking responsibility for our studies is essential for our growth and development as students. Instead of relying on excuses, let’s focus on improving our time management, seeking help when needed, and developing healthy study habits . By doing so, we can overcome the challenges of homework and thrive in our academic journey. Remember, the key to success lies in determination, dedication, and consistent effort.

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12 of the Funniest Excuses for Not Doing Your Homework

Homework is something that a lot of students choose not to do, even though they know they can get into a lot of trouble for skipping it. If you’re an educator, you’ve probably heard an unlimited number of excuses from your students, and some of them might have been absolutely hilarious.

Who’s going to want to do that math homework or write college papers when a new Marvel comic book has just been released, right?

1. “My brother’s friend , who came to our house yesterday, said he could eat paper, and I didn’t believe him. So he decided to show how much paper he could eat and grabbed my homework right out of my desk. I didn’t see that it was my homework and realized that it was too late.”

2. “ My dad needs a paper shredder for work, and it was delivered to our house yesterday. He wanted to show us how it works and mistakenly took my homework and destroyed it.”

4. “ I didn’t do my homework because I figured I’d do it tomorrow, because I’ll be older, and therefore be wiser, then.”

5. “ Yesterday, I didn’t have time to complete the homework because I was at the rally all day. The rally was calling for an increase to teacher pay, so I had to be there.”

7. “ Well, incredible story. I was going to school this morning and it was very windy. I carried the homework in my hands, but it slipped out of them and blew away. I tried to chase it for a couple of blocks, so that’s why I’m late to class.”

8. “ While I was getting ready for school this morning, I was putting some books inside my backpack. When it was time for my homework, my mom said she needed to see me in the kitchen right away. I went there, and when I came back, my homework wasn’t there. Clearly, my dad accidentally took it to work because his briefcase was next to my backpack.”

9. “ I was in the school yard when I heard some student saying bad things about you. I felt like that should let him know that he was wrong. It would be wrong to hurt him, so I thought a good way was to throw something at him. I quickly looked through my backpack, but the only thing I could find was the homework I had to submit today. After hesitating a bit, I let him have it. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to find it afterward; someone must have taken it.”

12. “ I was sunbathing near the pool yesterday and doing the homework at the same time. When I was about done, something pushed me forward and I dropped my work right into the pool. It was so wet I couldn’t put it together, so I don’t have it right now.”

Just a Drop in the Ocean

The amount of homework is steadily increasing , so more and more students are finding creative excuses to avoid it. We collected just a small amount in this article, but there are literally thousands of excuses like these, and students keep coming up with new ones.

Daniel Reed

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• Creatively Dodging Commitments, One Excuse at a Time! /
• Excuses For Not Doing Homework /

Excuses For Not Doing Homework

As a student, I understand the importance of completing homework assignments. But sometimes, it can be difficult to find the motivation or time to get your work done. I’m sure many of us have been in a situation where we’ve had to come up with excuses for not doing our homework.

Although it’s never ideal to make excuses, sometimes it’s necessary. Here are some of the most common excuses for not doing homework:

• I didn’t understand the assignment.

This is a common excuse, especially if you’re in a class where the material is new or unfamiliar. If this is the case, don’t be afraid to ask your teacher for clarification. They’ll be more than happy to help you understand the assignment better.

• I had a family emergency.

If you have a family emergency, this is a valid excuse for not doing your homework. Your teacher will likely understand and be willing to work with you to make up the work.

• I was sick.

If you’re sick, it’s understandable that you may not be able to complete your homework. Your teacher should be understanding of this.

• I had too much work.

Sometimes, teachers assign too much work and it can be overwhelming. If this is the case, talk to your teacher about it and see if they can reduce the workload.

• I had a test the next day.

If you had a test the next day, it’s understandable that you may not have had time to complete your homework. Your teacher should be understanding of this.

• I had to work.

If you have a job, your teacher should understand that you may not have had time to complete your homework.

• I had a project due.

If you had a project due, your teacher should understand that you may not have had time to complete your homework.

The 100 FUNNIEST Excuses For Not Doing Homework, Courtesy of My Students

Posted on Published: November 19, 2023

By: Author Jane Morris

Students throw out all kinds of excuses for not getting their homework done! From believable excuses to the tried and true classic “ my dog ate it” , teachers hear a lot of excuses every damn day.

It doesn’t help that by now, the behavioral expectations for students have become so loose that students can pretty much say whatever they want without consequence. These days, the excuses are that much more interesting. (And honest.)

Over the course of nearly two decades of teaching, I heard every homework excuse in the book. Better yet, I’ve saved my favorites! And rounded them up here for your viewing pleasure.

So let’s share in the giggles together! I’ve rounded up 100 of the BEST homework excuses I’ve ever heard. The laughs are good for the soul.

And probably your patience too! Some of these you’ve likely heard before. There might not be a lot of foolproof excuses for not doing your homework, but there sure are a lot of fools that come up with some real stinkers!

So for your enjoyment (and definitely not to be actually used in a real-life classroom), here are 100 odd, creative, nonsensical, and hilarious excuses from students for not doing their homework!

100 Funniest Excuses for Not Doing Homework: A Story of Student Shenanigans

If it’s your first day in the teaching profession , you might think homework excuses are few and far between. At the very least, you might think students bother making good excuses.

Well, you’d be wrong on both counts! You will be fed excuse after excuse from students for not having finished their homework, and very few of them will sound believable.

So new teachers, pay attention! Here is some of the ludicrousness you can expect from your class. And it WILL be on the test.

As for all my kindred season educators, sit back and enjoy the ride! Maybe grab a moist towelette…

Cause it’s about to get juicy.

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Homework Excuses That Are Pure Nonsense!

Man, kids say the silliest things to teachers . From being arrested by the FBI to simply having a gross pimple, the excuses for not having done homework often make no sense…

But they are highly entertaining!

• I got this thing where I can’t read.
• I was arrested by the FBI but it was a case of mistaken identity!
• The microwave was erasing all of my work and that’s why it was all turned in blank.
• I swear I did the work but the answers kept falling off my paper!
• My homework ate my dog!
• The elf on the shelf erased it.
• I had a crusty pimple.
• An electrostatic spark tore a hole in the space-time continuum. My paper was transported back through time and was found and published by a random person. Now I have to redo my assignment because it would be plagiarism to hand in my original.
• I care about trees too much to use paper.
• A gang broke into my house and stole the bag it was in.
• The military accidentally blew it up.
• My water bottle spilled in my backpack and it turned my homework into a brick of ice overnight.
• I did all my other homework and at that point, I needed personal time.
• I died in a car crash.
• I don’t care about homework because I don’t care about education.
• I was cooking grilled cheese and it was the last two pieces of bread and I burnt it and then I was really sad and I couldn’t do anything.
• I kept sneezing and picking the wrong answers because of that and I got frustrated so I just stopped doing it.

Excuses, Accidents, and Bathroom Mishaps

Look, we’ve all had a “little accident” . Only the worst teacher in the world would deny a student the facts of life.

But personal issues that maybe should stay personal are a go-to for slackers. Some funny homework excuses concern the crapper, and now we’re going to laugh at them. Take that, slackers!

• I was dealing with the ghost in the bathroom.
• I was taking a phat shit and it took forever.
• I had Taco Bell so I was in the bathroom the whole night.
• I took a crap and it stunk so I had to take a shower but then I had to crap again and then I showered again.
• I was really constipated.
• My mom forgot to buy toilet paper so I had to use my homework.
• I was doing it in my jacuzzi and it fell in.
• I had too many Hot Cheetos and had to ravage my toilet all night.

Mysterious Illnesses and TMI Reasons for Not Doing Homework

Your student’s poop schedule is one bit of TMI you could probably do without. Look, the uncomfortable truth of the teaching profession is that there will be poops, pees, spews, and TOO much information. The funniest homework excuses usually overspecify…

It comes with the territory. So whenever one of these incredibly questionable yet incredibly funny excuses for not doing homework rolls your way, the best thing you can do is jot it down.

So that, one day, you can put it in a blog post on the internet. Guilty!

• I was eating Takis in the car on the way here and I rubbed my eyes and had to pull over.
• My part was really itchy and I needed a shower.
• I dropped it in the toilet after I had gone to the bathroom.
• I was in intensive care having fluid drained from my lungs because I had pneumonia that I got when I was hit by a car.
• I had heart surgery last night (1st grader).

Excuses About Family Issues, Problems, and EMerghencies

We, as teachers bound to our duty, MUST be sensitive to the family issues and home lives of our students…

Unless they’re just making up excuses to get out of doing their homework! A solid fib about family issues is a classic reason students use to skip homework.

Now, will parents ever take responsibility for their kids not doing their homework? No, of course not! Parents will blame teachers. It’s their go-to M.O.

So next time you hear one of these clankers, note it down and feed it back to the parents. That’ll throw a spanner in the wheels of the little turds!

• I had to take my Nana out for cigarettes.
• I had to help my mom put the cucumbers in the fridge.
• I was practicing playing guitar so I could play a song for my mom’s birthday.
• My mom needed help putting cucumbers in the fridge.
• My sister broke my Chromebook screen because I wouldn’t give her a hug.
• My parents had diarrhea.
• My mom didn’t have time to do it.
• My dad said he doesn’t believe in homework so I don’t have to do it.
• My stepmom died again last night (for the 10th time).
• My dad made me watch TV instead.
• My dad ran it over with his truck.
• My mom drank too much beer to help me with it.
• My mom has radiation poisoning from Chernobyl and it messed up my brain.
• My grandma got lost at the mall and it took us hours to find her.
• My stepdad had a hook in his arm.
• My grandmother wouldn’t give me back my textbook which she had taken in retaliation for the theft of her wooden leg.
• My grandma accidentally took it with her to Mexico.
• I did the homework the day you gave it to us, except then my dad sold all of our notebooks.
• My grandpa said the work is stupid and you’re a moron.

Making Excuses About Special Events

“Damn, Miss, I was in Europe over the weekend.”

“Oh, you went for a weekend trip abroad as a 14-year-old? My apologies, allow me to rescind your homework requirements then.”

I honestly don’t know what some students are thinking with these reasons. But the stupidest homework excuses are my favorite. You can just let the kid talk and dig their own hole!

Perhaps, eventually, one of these definitely totally believable excuses will be the final straw for your inevitable nervous breakdown. But until then, just keep quoting them verbatim as teacher comments on their report cards .

Maybe one day someone will actually bother to read those things.

• I was getting married in the Sims and completely lost track of time.
• It was my birthday and I just wanted to get my hair done and get a cake.
• I was planning a funeral for my frog.
• I had to take down Halloween decorations.
• I had to get my nails done for prom.
• It was my bird’s birthday.
• I had to travel to Europe to stop WW3.
• I was at the beach and they didn’t have good WiFi.
• I was packing for the vacation I’ll be on for the next three weeks. Can I have the work I’ll miss?
• I had to brush my hair.

Extremely Honest Reasons to Not Do Homework

Look, sometimes all you really need to do is be honest . Did you not do your homework because you smoked a bowl and got marooned on the sofa with cartoons?

Screw it! Just tell the teacher that. Maybe they’ll give you a pass for your winning smile alone!

Much like all the ridiculous reasons to visit the school nurse , sometimes, the best reasons for not doing your homework require honesty.

What could possi-blye go wrong!

• I have no time management skills. On the bright side, I watched all of season 1 of Stranger Things today!
• I was eating Toaster Strudels.
• My 24-hour ban from Call of Duty ended today and I need to get some rounds in.
• My favorite soccer team lost.
• I was smoking weed with my friends and the next thing I knew it was morning and I had to come to school again.
• It just didn’t fit into my schedule today.
• I’m just, like, really lazy.
• I had better things to do.
• We thought it was Saturday yesterday.
• I don’t need to do homework because NCAA scouts have been coming to see me play and I’m gonna get a scholarship.
• I had to go to church but I’m pretty sure God will understand.

Animal Problems – “My Dog Ate My Homework” and Other Variants

I’m not saying your students are animals (though they certainly behave like animals ).

I AM saying that students will make excuse after excuse for not doing their homework courtesy of their pets. They’re the perfect culprit! Who’s ever going to interrogate your furry friend for cross-examination?

Only the teachers who are crazy enough. ;)

• My dog peed on my laptop and it took a few days to dry.
• My cat ran over the keyboard and deleted the whole thing.
• My dog doesn’t like going to the bathroom alone so I had to watch him and he took forever.
• We had a cow in labor, and it was stuck in the hips of the cow, and I couldn’t get it out myself.
• I was with my new guinea pig and it was really distracting.
• The dog pooped and my baby brother fell in it.
• I accidentally locked my cat with my brother’s cat, and I don’t know if my cat got pregnant, but I think she is because she tried to go under my bed, and she never does that.
• There was a roach on the floor so I couldn’t get down off the bed the whole afternoon.
• My dog had puppies on top of my book bag and it was gross so my dad threw my book bag away.
• My cat threw up on it.
• My duck pooped on it.
• My dad accidentally threw my project away and a raccoon went into the trash can and destroyed it.
• My friend’s cat is having an abortion.
• A donkey ate it.
• The squirrels on the roof were distracting me.
• My dog died three years ago.
• I was doing a photo shoot with my bunny.
• My dog looked sad.
• I was doing my homework outside and a bird grabbed it and flew away.
• I got attacked by a raccoon on the way to school and he only went for the homework and ate it in front of me.
• My pet parrot flew into the fireplace and caught on fire. It then proceeded to fly around the room, and his dad tried to hit it with a frying pan because he was afraid the curtains would go up in flames if the parrot went close to them. With all the drama, I forgot to do my homework.
• My grandmother’s potbelly pig ate my homework.
• I got distracted shopping online for furniture for my turtle.

Funny Homework Excuses and Technical Difficulties

Oh, man – I saw some whoppers of excuses in the remote learning era of COVID-19!

Technical difficulties are the perfect excuse students make to skip out on their homework. They think they’re more tech-savvy than teachers…

Little did they know that a teacher’s BS-meter is far more finely calibrated than their excuses will ever be!

• Google erased my work.
• I don’t have internet access (sent in an email).
• I just kept hitting the submit button over and over and over and it didn’t make a click sound or anything.
• My mom threw my “lab top” out the window and when I went outside to get it, it was gone.
• I accidentally lit my Chromebook on fire
• My dog peed on my Chromebook

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The Final Excuse for Not Doing Your Homework…

Reason #100:

• “But, Miss! You said to do questions 1-10. You didn’t say bring them in!”

Check and mate.

Thus concludes our list of the 100 funniest excuses for not doing their homework, all thanks to the countless students who skipped out on their work.

Stay on guard though. With the rise of AI and homework excuse generators , the excuses only get more advanced!

So stay switched on out there! If it’s not funny excuses for not doing homework, it’s straight-up silly reasons for being absent and everything else under the sun.

Jot them down, collect them, and then (if you’re feeling spicy), post them in the comments down below. Why stop at 100? Gotta catch ’em all!

Stay miserable out there, teacherinos. The excuses and excuses never stop coming! So maybe come up with your own…

“Oh, no, sorry, Lucy. I CAN’T return your confiscated phone. My dog ate it.”

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50 Best Excuses for Missing your Homework

We all have drained our brains thinking for the perfect lie that could save us from our teachers. While school days are said to be one of the most memorable days of our lives, homework is one thing that we all used to run away from and would do anything to be away from it. Nervousness tickles up the spine when the teacher starts calling out names, asking for homework, slowly coming up to your name.

And you did not do it!

That is a moment when your brain is thinking hard for a solution, eyes staring blankly at your friends to get help, mouth mindlessly chewing nails and legs just wishing they could let you run out of the room. Alas, none of the things usually work out and it is left up to you to save yourself. And by the time you could make up the perfect justification, your teacher asks, “What about your homework? Have you done it dear?”

“No, ma’am. I mean yes, but actually…”

Well, there is always hope. It can be a good help if you try out these excuses for not doing your homework. There are always some cards that play the perfect role to help you out.

1. “I was ill for days!”

The king of all the excuses, illness can help you out surely. Now, it is important to keep in mind that your illness should sound practical as if it really happened to you. Do not tell of an ill situation that is hard to believe. I have heard that students sometimes even say that they caught rabies, and get blasted later. Viral infection, swelling, digestion issues and fever can work well.

2. “My cat scratched the papers and tore it off!”

Well, let’s not always blame the dogs for killing away your homework. This time, let your cat save you!

3. “I was busy volunteering for a social event”

Or even a community club, pets help, orphanage etc can be used to make up a perfect excuse. Teaming up with a social cause shows you as a responsible person towards your surroundings, and your teacher may like it and give you a day to cover up your work.

4. “Did not the homework was to be submitted today”

Well, this sounds as quite a common excuse, but definitely worth a try.

5. “Parents’ anniversary yesterday”

Yes, and that’s why you were busy all day round decorating up the house, fetching orders, planning the surprises which did not leave you any time for homework.

6. “Fall sick when asked about homework”

When your teacher is coming to you for homework, just bring out the actor inside you and pretend to be really sick, all of a sudden. You can act as if you have a really bad stomach, dizziness or feeling like throwing up as they happen suddenly. Rush to the medical room and you can be saved from a scolding.

7. “Lost it while house cleaning”

Let’s say the papers just got here and there while your room was being cleaned, and you could never find it again. It will be hard to believe one for your teacher though, but surely a fun thing to say as well.

8. “Vacuum cleaner ate it up”

Let the vacuum cleaner suck up your homework! And if the teacher asks that you could have still pulled it out, cleaned the paper and presented it to her, plainly say that it had too much chunk which was immediately cleaned.

9. “Mom gave a punishment for fighting”

And then think of a punishment which will keep you away from your room. Anything which is exhausting and time taking after which you were very tired and straight went off to sleep. For example, say you were asked to mow the lawn, clean the car, check and fix all the electric sockets etc. Surely this excuse can save you well because your teacher to knows that no one can cheat mom!

10. “Slipped out of my bag while I was crossing the bridge”

And below the bridge, there is the river, where it got dumped. But beware; do not think of saying the lie if there is no river in your way. You won’t be able to slip out of your teacher’s hands later!

11. “I did all of the work, but my computer crashed”

This excuse usually works well, because you did your homework but the system crashed. Play it well and you teacher will believe you.

12. “Baby sister pooped on it”

Eww, but it can definitely help you! And no one is going to think further about the assignment once they listen to this perfect lie.

13. “Got a lift while coming and forgot assignment in it”

Now you don’t know where the sweet guy who helped you went, neither you have any number to contact him.

14. “Dog peed on it”

Yes, finally the dog comes in to save you! And a further number of excuses that you can make up that involve your dog. Just like the lie where your younger sibling pooped on your precious homework, your teacher won’t think of it further.

15. “Had an alien visiting our block last night”

Anything bizarre can be cooked up once you say the word ‘Aliens’. You can say they sucked up all the ink of the entire block for their UFO’s fuel, or even that a tornado hit up when they were taking off the land. Aliens are always fun to talk about.

16. “Ran out of toilet paper”

Homework is important of course, but hygiene comes first!

17. “Someone pulled it out of my bag”

Pretend to be really worried, because you clearly remember keeping it in your backpack right this morning. But when you opened the bag in the class, poof! It has vanished. Your teacher will find it hard to believe because it is a lame excuse, but if you play it well, it can work as it points out that someone from class might have stolen it.

18. “Dad took it to work accidentally”

And while you were having breakfast, your dad was packing his bag for the office, searching for his files and papers and by mistake took off your homework with him too. But make sure your teacher does not end up calling your father to send in the homework.

19. “I was hypnotized”

Sounds fake. Totally. But it is possible anyway. Say your cousins were at your place last night and they tried up hypnotizing each other. Initially, it wasn’t happening, but when they tried the trick on you, it happened! And they made you clean all the chores of the house, bla bla bla. Make sure to tell that you were hypnotized all the time and got into senses right before school time.

20. “Butler tossed it into the bin”

Your butler cleaned up the room while you were getting ready. He thought it was some waste papers and threw them off. Plainly say that you were so furious that you asked dad to fire him right away.

21. “Gone into paper shredder”

Your cousin got a new paper shredder and wanted to test it. Before you could act in the situation, he picked up the assignment sheets lying near him and put into the machine. And you were crying your heart out when homework got chopped off finely.

22. “I felt my room was haunted”

And bring in all the conjuring effects that can trickle down a shiver of fear down the spine. Like the aliens, anything can be cooked up if you talk about paranormal activities. Lights got dimmed, bulbs burst off later, cold wind blew in through the wind, creepy sounds etc can all be a part of your story which made you really scared. So scared that you hid under the sheets and just slept off.

23. “Grandmother posted it away”

Say that your grandmom lost her glasses and had a very urgent letter to be delivered. By mistake, she picked up your homework and put it in the envelope. And all the while this happened, you were sleeping thus could not do anything.

24. “Burnt it to make some light”

Due to the heavy rain, there was low voltage and the fuse blew off. There was no light to see the fuse and fix it, thus you had to burn all the papers you could get your hands on, including your assignment. What a sacrifice it sounds! And when the power came back finally, there was not enough paper left in the house to start again.

25. “I forgot to bring my notebook”

The most common excuse, after all. Teachers have heard it a zillion times and find it lame. But it does happen that students forget their work due to a rush. But make sure that you do not use the lie each time you skip your homework because it does not make any sense that you forgot your homework every time.

26. “I was helping mom to host the guests last night”

This trick can definitely play well to save you from a punishment. After all, playing a good and responsible kid is never a bad idea!

27. “There was a power cut at our house the entire night”

And thus you could not see anything around you. A little silly it sounds, but if you play this excuse well, it can help you out for sure.

28. “I gave it for copying but did not get it back!”

Willing to play with your teacher’s mind? Then do try out this excuse. But be prepared for the fact that you may be scolded a little for letting others copy your work. But I’m sure it will be better than being blasted for not doing it at all!

29. “My maid packed food in it for a homeless guy”

Make sure to state right in the beginning that your maid can’t read. ‘Sharing is caring’ can indeed help you out and be a good excuse for skipping homework.

30. “Pen got no ink in the middle of work”

This excuse will be more sensible if you have done your homework, but not completed it. Add on some extra lines that the nearby stationery was closed too or anything else. Though a little hard to believe, it might work out too.

31. “I got robbed on the way to school!”

Why not add some drama to your lie! Make up a good story of how happy you were when you started from home as all your answers were correct but you got robbed in the way, and the bad guys took out everything from your bag and vanished. If possible, shed off a tear too, and the teacher will surely believe you and give you another chance to work on it. But hey, this excuse may not work every time as it is easy to catch out such fictitious excuses.

32. “My little brother made a boat and sailed it!”

Little kids can be a great saviour when it comes to making excuses. Plainly tell your teacher that your baby brother made a boat out of your assignment and sailed it in the bathtub.

33. “Tore it off because all my answers were wrong”

Play out a frustrated kid while telling this excuse, and say how dedicated you were to your work all night. But when you cross-checked the answers, you got angry with yourself so much that you just blew off the paper. Quite an unbelievable excuse though, but if you play it smartly, your teacher will surely believe in it.

34. “Kept it near the window and it blew away!”

Keep it simple, practical and real. Who can stop nature anyway?

35. “I just showed it to you!”

Sounds fun and adventurous, but do not dare to try if your teacher is sheer smart.

36. “Sister scribbled on it, so I had to erase it which took the entire night”

Again, let your family be your saviour!

37. “Did not know about submitting it today”

Though it is another common lie that goes around a lot, it can give you an extra day.

38. “Shifting house, thus misplaced it”

Tell your teacher that you are shifting your house to a new place, thus everyone was busy packing up the whole stuff. And now you have no idea where your stationery is packed!

39. “Drunk friend puked on my homework!”

And you could not do anything but to help him get to the washroom. And it was a stinking gross sight by the time you returned, thus you had to throw away your homework. This excuse can work well if you play it smartly.

40. “Could not understand the concept”

This shows that you tried doing your homework, but came across problems while doing it. You can make it even better by asking some doubts from your teacher to make it clear to your teacher that you indeed tried doing the homework.

41. “I was absent on that day homework was given”

And you don’t know anything about it. In fact, this is the most common lie that every student has given quite a times in their school times. And the teachers have got bored of hearing this lie. But you can still try it out.

42. “Forgot to save my work”

You were staying up all night, working hard on your assignment and then straight away went to sleep. And you went crazy in the morning when you realized that you had turned off your computer without saving your work!

43. “Neighbors were disturbing, thus I could not focus”

Well, it won’t be wrong to blame your neighbours little for not doing homework. Say the music was too loud or they were drunk and kept disturbing us at our home or anything else.

44. “Was busy doing other subject’s homework”

Teachers go a little crazy hearing this one, and they start lecturing the kids. But it happens often that students are already burying their heads in one subject so much that they can’t complete other subjects’ work.

45. “Was busy in a police investigation in the vicinity”

Let’s say that a crime scene popped out in your neighbourhood and you were called upon for a general investigation. The tiring questions made you really exhausted and you jumped into bed after it.

46. “Work got stuck due to printing error”

You were about to print your work, but let the printer take all your pains. Say it ran out of ink, bolts were loose or anything else. After all, technical errors can ooze up anytime.

47. “Had a fight with brother and he tore off my hard work!”

Oh, poor you! You did a good job at solving all the problems, sitting up all night. But he quarrelled with you right when you woke up in the morning and tore off your homework to bits just to annoy you. And every person knows that fights between siblings are a messy thing to tackle, so such things happen often!

48. “Had a bad toothache”

A toothache is a thing which can shiver a person even in his sleep. Your teacher may have gone through the sour experience as well, so such an excuse can keep you safe easily.

49. “Was grounded to my bedroom and homework was kept in the study”

An annoying lie which the teacher may not believe, but it can explain to him clearly that you need more time to complete your work.

50. “I confess…”

Sometimes, telling the truth is the best excuse to explain why you did not do your work. If no other way seems to work out, speak out the truth, blaming yourself a little that you felt lazy and did such an irresponsible thing. Tell your teacher that you would not repeat such a mistake and require some extra time to finish your work. Sometimes, truth wins overall.

Well, keep a thing in mind that the more bring such excuses into use, the lesser teachers will believe in you. do not make a regular habit of skipping homework. Make use of the above suggested fun excuses when it is actually required.

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25 Best Excuses for Not Doing Homework: Debunking the Myths

For as long as we can remember, homework has always been a component of school life. It is an essential tool for enhancing classroom learning, refining study techniques, and getting ready for tests. But occasionally, finishing homework can be difficult and daunting. Some students turn to make-up justifications in these circumstances to completely evade the assignment. Although using an excuse to avoid doing your homework may seem like a fast fix, it might hinder academic development and personal improvement.

We seek to dispel the misconceptions around the “Excuses for Not Doing Homework” that frequently circulate among students in this blog post. We will provide you with useful advice on how to help your students deal with homework difficulties and establish appropriate study habits so that you won’t have to resort to justifications.

1. “I forgot to do my homework.”

Although forgetting to complete your homework is a frequent justification, it’s vital to keep in mind that time management and organization are crucial skills for success. Try the following to remember your assignments:

• Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of due dates.
• Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable chunks to make them less overwhelming.

2. “I didn’t understand the assignment.”

Schoolwork can occasionally be difficult or unclear, which makes this justification enticing. Try these steps instead of ignoring the assignment:

• Review the instructions and ask for clarification from your teacher or classmates.
• Research the topic online or consult additional resources to gain a better understanding.

3. “My internet was down, so I couldn’t conduct any online research.”

Online research is a necessary component of many projects in the modern digital world. However, problems with internet access might happen. What you can do is:

• Inform your teacher about the internet problem and request an extension if necessary.
• Utilize offline resources, such as textbooks or reference books available at your school or local library.

4. “I had a family emergency.”

Unexpected family crises might throw your schedule off. However, it’s crucial to get in touch with your teacher and look for other options:

• Inform your teacher about the situation as soon as possible.
• Discuss the possibility of an extension or make-up work.

5. “I didn’t have the required materials.”

Not having your textbooks, notebooks, or other necessary resources might make it difficult for you to finish your assignment. To get through this defense:

• Double-check your bag before leaving school to ensure you have all the necessary materials.
• Keep a checklist of essential items for each class and refer to it before leaving school.

6. “I was too tired to do my homework.”

It makes sense to feel worn out after a full day of academics and extracurricular activities. However, it’s crucial to put your academic obligations first. These suggestions can help you fight fatigue:

• Take short breaks and engage in physical activity or relaxation techniques to rejuvenate yourself.
• Ensure you have a consistent sleep schedule and aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night.

7. “I didn’t have enough time to finish my homework.”

Success in academics depends on good time management. Even if it could feel as though there aren’t enough hours in the day, good planning and organization can enable you to schedule time for homework. Think about the following:

• Create a daily or weekly schedule that includes dedicated homework time.
• Prioritize your assignments based on urgency and importance.

8. “I had other significant obligations.”

For students, juggling several obligations is a regular difficulty. You must, however, give your academic obligations priority. Here are some tips for handling your responsibilities wisely :

• Plan and allocate specific time slots for each commitment, including homework.
• Learn to say “no” when necessary and avoid taking on more responsibilities than you can handle.

9. “I didn’t have access to a computer or printer.”

Your ability to finish assignments that call for access to a computer or printer may occasionally be hampered by technological challenges. Here are some substitutes:

• Utilize public computers at your local library or community centers.
• Ask your school if they have computer or printer resources available for students to use.

10. “I participated in extracurricular activities or practiced sports.”

Sports and extracurricular involvement are key educational components, but it’s crucial to maintain a healthy balance. Think about the following advice:

• Communicate with your coach or activity leader about your homework commitments.
• Plan your schedule, ensuring you have dedicated time for both homework and extracurricular activities.

11. “I had a doctor’s appointment.”

Medical appointments are sometimes unavoidable but always important. However, it’s crucial to prepare ahead of time and organize your schoolwork properly. Think about the following actions:

• Inform your teacher in advance about the appointment and inquire about any missed assignments.
• Prioritize completing your homework before or after the appointment to stay on track.

12. “I didn’t have the necessary resources or materials at home.”

Although a problem, there are workarounds if there aren’t enough resources. Consider these options:

• Visit your school or local library to access the materials you need.
• Collaborate with classmates and arrange study sessions where you can share resources.

13. “My online platform was experiencing a technical problem.”

Even while technical difficulties might be annoying, you shouldn’t allow them to keep you from finishing your homework. Take the following actions:

• Reach out to your teacher or the technical support team for assistance.
• Use alternative devices or browsers to access the online platform.

14. “I had a family celebration or event.”

While attending family gatherings and activities is vital, it’s also crucial to strike a balance between your obligations and your academic obligations. Take into account this advice:

• Plan your time effectively and allocate specific periods for homework before or after the celebration.
• Communicate with your family about your homework commitments and ask for their support.

15. “I had no idea it was an assignment.”

The secret to successfully managing your schoolwork is to be informed and organized. Follow these recommendations:

• Pay attention in class and actively listen to announcements or instructions regarding assignments.
• Develop a system to track and record homework assignments, such as a planner or digital calendar.

16. “I had lots of homework from other classes.”

It might be difficult to manage several tasks from various classes, but it’s crucial to set priorities and manage your time well. Think about the following suggestion:

• Create a schedule or to-do list that outlines all your assignments and their respective deadlines.
• Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks and tackle them one at a time.

17. “I didn’t have a quiet place to study.”

It might be tough to concentrate and do assignments in a loud atmosphere. To make a setting that is conducive to studying, try these techniques:

• Find a quiet area in your home, such as a designated study corner or a library.
• Use noise-canceling headphones or play instrumental music to drown out distractions.

18. “I had other work responsibilities or a part-time job.”

Finding a balance between a job and schoolwork might be difficult, but it is achievable. Think about the following ideas:

• Communicate your availability and scheduling preferences to your employer.
• Plan your work hours around your homework schedule and allocate specific time slots for studying.

19. “I wasn’t feeling very well.”

There are measures you can take to control the problem, however, illness might make it difficult for you to do your homework:

• Prioritize rest and focus on your recovery to prevent further health issues.
• Communicate with your teacher about your condition and inquire about missed assignments or extensions.

20. “I experienced a personal crisis or emotional problems.”

Personal problems and emotional challenges might make it difficult for you to focus on your assignments. Here is how to overcome such difficulties:

• Reach out for support from trusted friends, family members, or school counselors to help you cope with the situation.
• Communicate with your teachers about your circumstances and explore potential accommodations or extensions.

21. “I had a computer problem”

Computer technical difficulties might be annoying, but they shouldn’t serve as a regular justification. To solve this problem, think about the following strategies:

• Troubleshoot the issue by restarting your computer or seeking assistance from tech support.
• Utilize alternative devices, such as a smartphone or tablet, to access necessary resources or complete assignments.

22. “I went on a social outing or event with friends.”

While keeping up your social life is vital, it’s crucial to strike a balance with your academic obligations. Here’s how to locate a neutral position:

• Plan your social outings and allocate specific time for homework beforehand.
• Communicate with your friends about your homework commitments and request their support.

23. “I didn’t find the homework assignment interesting.”

Even if not every task will hold your attention, it’s important to approach it with the proper attitude. Take into account these tactics:

• Find ways to relate the assignment to your interests or goals.
• Seek guidance from your teacher or classmates to gain a better understanding of the assignment’s relevance.

24. “I had a family duty or responsibility.”

Even while family duties might be time-consuming, it is feasible to achieve a balance between them and your academic requirements. Try these things:

• Communicate with your family about your academic responsibilities and seek their understanding.
• Plan your time effectively by setting aside dedicated periods for homework.

25. “I didn’t think it was necessary.”

You could occasionally ponder the significance or relevance of a specific homework assignment. It’s important to understand the benefits of discipline and constant practice, though. Think about these viewpoints:

• See homework as an opportunity to reinforce what you’ve learned and develop a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
• Recognize that completing assignments demonstrates your commitment to learning and your academic growth.

We have emphasized the need of accepting responsibility for academic responsibilities by disproving the “25 Best Excuses for Not Doing Homework.” Instead of making excuses, success will be paved by establishing productive study habits, time management abilities, and proactive communication.

Remember that while excuses may provide short-term solace, they ultimately impede development and advancement. Students may overcome homework difficulties and meet academic objectives by having a proactive mentality, asking for help when they need it, and remaining focused.

So let’s set such justifications aside, adopt a cheerful outlook, and pursue assignments with tenacity and diligence. Dedication to studying will pay off in the long run and advance your success as a whole.

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Homework Excuses: Top Guide To Help You Not Do Homework

Homework excuses are common among students at all educational levels. It’s no secret that many learners dislike homework and must find ways to convince educators they are not at fault. Although academic life is exciting, it comes with burdens. Life hardships make some learners unable to complete homework within the deadlines that educators stipulate.

Whether in college, high school, or university, you will need excuses for not doing your homework. This article lists some of the best reasons learners give for not completing their homework. It’s helpful because not every learner is sufficiently creative to convince the teacher or professor to pardon them for not completing assignments.

What Are Homework Excuses?

A homework excuse is a story, explanation, or alibi that a student gives the teacher or professor for not completing their homework.

A learner may require an excuse for various reasons. For instance, they may need it to cover up for something else or lack a good reason to justify their inability to submit the assignment. Regardless of the case, students can use different excuses to convince educators not to punish or penalize them.

Excuses for not doing homework are essential for several reasons. For instance, a learner could be having a bad day. Or they may not feel like doing the assignment. Some educators bombard learners with many tasks with strict deadlines. In that case, students may lack time to do all the coursework and score their desired grades. Therefore, they can give excuses to get extra time to complete the homework.

What Is The Purpose Of HW Excuses?

Every student has been there- you have homework, but certain things prevent you from doing it.

The primary purpose of excuses is to temporarily help you get out of trouble for not doing the task. They can also allow you to focus on what prevents you from doing it.

Homework excuses give students a way to explain why they didn’t do their assignments. While learners have different reasons for using an excuse, the bottom line is avoiding the consequences of not completing the work or punishment. Nevertheless, students should keep a few things in mind whenever they use an excuse to justify their inability to submit homework on time.

First, learners should ensure their excuses are believable. A student shouldn’t try to use a fake reason, like saying your dog ate your homework. Second, they should prepare to back up their story if necessary. If the teacher asks for more information about the excuse, the learner should be ready to give it. Finally, students shouldn’t overuse excuses. If they constantly make excuses for not doing their homework, the teacher will catch on eventually.

Good Homework Excuses For Different Situations

An excuse for not completing homework can come in handy in different situations. Here are seven examples of reasons for not doing homework.

If you didn’t do your homework because you forgot about it, you could say that you were sick or that something came up that prevented you from doing it. Maybe you didn’t do your homework because you didn’t understand it. In that case, you can say that the instructions were confusing or that you couldn’t find the needed information. If you didn’t do your homework because you didn’t have enough time, you could say that you had extracurricular activities or that you had to work. Perhaps, you didn’t do your homework because you were procrastinating. In that case, you can say that you started it but ran out of time. If you didn’t do your homework because you were distracted, you can say that something came up or that you couldn’t focus. Maybe you didn’t do your homework because you were sick. If so, you can say that you had a doctor’s appointment or weren’t feeling well. If your reason for not doing homework was a busy schedule, you could say that you had a family emergency or that you had no option but to work.

Always remember that your excuse must be believable to serve its purpose. Therefore, choose a reason that best suits your situation.

Good Excuses To Miss Practice Or Class

Perhaps, you have other commitments that prevent you from attending practice or class. And this might prevent you from submitting your homework on time. In that case, you can give the following believable excuses:

• I’m sorry I will miss practice/class. I have a doctor’s appointment.
• I’m sorry I will miss practice/class. I have to work to avoid losing my job.
• I’m sorry I will miss practice/class. My car broke down.
• I’m sorry I will miss practice/class. My train has a delay.
• I’m sorry I will miss practice/class. There is heavy traffic.

Note that you can also use these excuses for not completing your homework. Nevertheless, ensure you’re convincing the educator to believe you.

Advice On How To Give Good Excuses For Not Doing Homework

Not every learner can give an excuse and get away with it. That’s because educators were once students, meaning they knew all the tricks in the book. So, suppose you have difficulties giving your teacher a believable excuse for not completing and submitting homework. In that case, the following are tips for providing good excuses for not doing homework should help you get away with it.

Be confident: Unless you sell the excuse, chances are that your teacher won’t buy it. So, act as if you believe in what you’re saying, and chances are, your educator will find it too. Keep it short and sweet: The longer the story, the more likely it is to seem fabricated. So, make sure to keep your excuse short and to the point. Make it believable: As we said before, educators were once students. That means they know all of the excuses in the book. So, if you want to make your excuse believable, make sure it’s something that could happen. Be prepared to back it up: If your teacher asks for more information about your excuse, be ready to give it. And this will help make your story more believable. Don’t overuse excuses: If you’re constantly making excuses for not doing your homework, your teacher will catch on eventually. So, use them sparingly and only when necessary.

If you ever want to give excuses for homework, these tips should help you do so without getting caught. But if your teacher is on to your tricks, making up believable excuses might seem daunting. But don’t worry. There are still ways to make your reasons more plausible. For instance, try to use excuses that don’t involve technology. If you say your computer crashed and lost all your work, your teacher will likely ask for a hard copy or proof that you did the task.

Second, try to use excuses that are specific to the assignment. For example, if you’re trying to get out of doing a science project, saying you don’t have the materials is more believable than saying you don’t have the time. And finally, try to use excuses that are relevant to your life outside the school. If you’ve been sick recently or have a family emergency, your teacher is likelier to believe that you didn’t do your homework.

Nevertheless, the best way to avoid giving an excuse in the first place is to do your homework. That way, you won’t have to worry about coming up with a good reason for not doing it.

Tips On How To Avoid Making Excuses For Late Homework

Maybe you’ve given many excuses for not completing homework on time and think your teacher has begun suspecting you. Perhaps, you can no longer come up with the best excuses for not doing homework. In that case, the following tips will help you avoid giving excuses for missing class or not submitting homework on time.

• Set a schedule: In addition to being organized, setting a schedule can help you avoid making excuses for failing to submit homework. That’s because scheduling will help you plan your time and ensure you’re working on your assignments when you’re supposed to be.
• Be organized: If you want to avoid struggling to find the best excuses for missing school or not doing homework, try being organized. Organization means having a planner or another way to track your assignments and due dates.
• Get rid of distractions: Another way to avoid excuses for failing to do homework is to get rid of distractions. And this could mean turning off your phone, getting off social media, and anything else that might prevent you from working on your assignments.
• Start early: Another way to avoid excuses for missing homework is to start early. That way, you’ll have plenty of time to work on your assignments and won’t have to rush to finish them.
• Ask for help: If you’re having trouble with your assignments, don’t hesitate to ask for help. For instance, you can turn to your parent, tutor, or even your teacher. Also, you can seek homework help online or pay for assignment . Nevertheless, choose a reputable service to ensure quality work and your information’s safety. Getting help will ensure that you complete your assignments and avoid making excuses for why they’re late.

These tips should help you avoid excuses because you will always complete your homework on time. Nevertheless, excuses are a necessary evil for students who want to get out of doing their homework. But with creativity, you can make even the most far-fetched excuse sound plausible. So next time you’re stuck trying to come up with an excuse, remember these tips, and you’ll be sure to get out of doing your homework in no time.

Get The Best Homework Help

Perhaps, you’re tired of struggling to find good excuses for missing homework. Maybe you want to ensure you always complete and submit your assignments on time. Perhaps you are out here thinking “who can do my assignment UK ?” In that case, we can help.

We offer high-quality homework assistance online to learners across educational levels. Whether in high school, pursuing our diploma, undergraduate, or post-graduate studies, we can help you. Our service is custom, cheap, and secure. We’re fast and reliable, with the best homework experts in all academic disciplines. Once you contact us saying, “Please do my homework,” we pick the most competent experts to start working on it immediately.

And this, combined with our expertise, enables us to deliver all assignments from our customers before their deadlines elapse. That means you will never struggle to find the best homework excuses with our service. So, use our service if you always want to be on good terms with your teacher or professor. Contact us now!

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What to Say When You Didn't Do Your Homework

10 June 2024

9 minutes reading time

• 01. 🐶The Dog Ate It
• 02. 😩I Don’t Remember Getting any Homework
• 03. 😲I Thought it Was in My Bag
• 04. 😵I Didn’t Understand the Homework
• 05. 💻My Computer Crashed
• 06. 😩Too Much Homework from Another Class
• 07. 👋I was Absent When the Homework was Assigned
• 08. 🆘Busy with Extra-curricular Activities and Volunteering
• 09. 🤮I Was So Sick!
• 10. 😎Tell the Truth
• 11. 🎁Bonus Excuses

If you're going to choose someone's homework to copy, you need to choose someone who's good in maths. Blanche Hanalis

Have you ever stumbled to class, filled with dread and wondering how you're going to explain why you don't have any work to turn in? When that happens, pupils cook up excuses so they won't get into trouble.

If you feel like we're speaking directly to you... we are. Adults were once pupils, and we know how school life is. Sometimes, it's hard to muster any enthusiasm for assignments, but if you learn some homework tips , things won't be so bad. Still, you need a go-to list of excuses, for when the going gets too rough.

🐶The Dog Ate It

We head our list up with the classic - who hasn't heard about that homework-hating dog that must eat every assignment? Or maybe it's a homework-loving dog who craves the taste of graphite and ink.

Over the centuries, dogs have been accused of eating everything including, in one story published in 1808, a playing card that would have lost its master the high-stakes game he was playing.

This excuse is based on the true account of an Anglican priest, whose sermons tended to go on and on. He had to cut his preaching short one Sunday because a dog had gotten into his study and had eaten several pages of the sermon. The worshippers were reportedly delighted at spending less time in the pews.

The original dog who ate homework was allegedly Saint Ciarán of Clonmacnoise's pet fox.

The bottom line: despite its long history, this is not the most subtle or workable of excuses. However, should you have a dog… If all else fails, bring a few chewed-on pages as proof.

😩I Don’t Remember Getting any Homework

Today's technology poses problems for your alleged Swiss cheese memory . It makes it much harder to say you forgot about homework assignments. Upon any claim of faulty memory on your part, your teacher will ask if you checked with your mates.

Besides, what if your teacher assigned homework online , through your school's web-based learning portal? They'll see that you logged in, clearly proving you knew you had work to do.

You're golden with this excuse, but only if your teacher uses no web-based learning platforms . You probably DO remember getting your homework, but they can't be sure of that, right? This particular excuse work best if the whole class - or, at least a majority of your classmates made the same claim.

This is one of the best excuses for not doing homework if your assignment is particularly difficult. You and your mates can agree to back each other's stories up. Likewise, if you'd prioritise doing your homework , a study group is a fine idea.

😲I Thought it Was in My Bag

This excuse works for just about anything, from the money you owe a friend to the book you promised to return. And, of course, for homework not done. It is particularly effective if you first dig into your backpack as you normally would.

And then, more frantically, your fingers scrabble and scour every pocket, even as you cast panicked glances around the room. If you could work up an embarrassed flush, that would be the icing on the cake.

You should make sure not to use this excuse too often with the same teacher. If you don't bring your homework to class several times in the same week, your teacher will probably realise that you simply haven't done it.

😵I Didn’t Understand the Homework

This is one of the best excuses for not doing homework for science and maths classes . That doesn't mean it won't fly if the assignment called for you to write at length. You might need to explain that you didn't get you were supposed to write about.

This story hits two birds with one stone when you combine it with "Could you explain it to me, please?". You'll get help with your homework and a deadline extension , especially if you actually don’t understand the assignment.

You might also try to have a quick look at the assignment before you start explaining why you haven't done it. Your argument will be more convincing if you point to the exact part of the assignment that was unclear. Should you choose this one from your list of homework excuses, beware of these possible teacher-counters (remember these answers!).

Did you ask your classmates?

"Ma'am/Sir, I asked my dad/mom/older sister for help. They couldn't advise me, either."

You're too good a student!

"Ma'am/Sir, this isn't my usual style, I know. But I truly did struggle with this assignment!"

You're pulling a fast one on me!

(Bursting into tears) "Nobody ever takes me seriously! Everyone expects so much from me!"

Anyone using these homework excuses should be aware that their teachers will not always believe them. Indeed, depending on how much experience the teacher has, they will know that the student is trying to deceive them. To avoid that kind of situation, it's best to do your homework effectively .

💻My Computer Crashed

More schools are turning to web-based platforms to assign and turn in homework. This gives us a whole new spectrum of good excuses for not doing homework.

When the student's laptop is out of service, there is no way they can get their homework done. Calling a technician to repair the laptop may take several days and buying a new computer just to do your homework would be too expensive.

Besides laptop crashes, you might invoke pets and/or younger siblings breaking your laptop. Hackers, power failures and even that your printer ran out of ink could work, in a pinch. Of course, that last will be the least effective excuse, especially if you are a serial homework offender . Your teacher may say you could have loaded your work onto a USB drive and taken it to a print shop.

Beware too that, if no other student suffered a power outage , invoking that reason may force to veer into the 'parents didn't pay the bill' territory. That would be the only other reason that only you had no electricity to power your devices.

😩Too Much Homework from Another Class

Primary and secondary school teachers usually have an idea of how much homework their colleagues assign. Besides, if they didn't, it would be a snap for them to check. They may start by asking your classmates; their responses might prove embarrassing for you.

Even if you lay out everything you did for that supposed other class, this story puts you and your teacher in a difficult position. This excuse might work if your professor is too inexperienced to know better or a bit on the negligent side.

On one hand, they might think: "Poor you, clearly you’ve been given far too much homework!". However, on the other, they may contend that other teachers' assignments aren't their concern. Furthermore, being a college/university student, you should manage your schedule and workload more efficiently.

This excuse would work best for college and university students.

Some teachers could take this excuse the wrong way, as though you care more about the other subject than theirs. So, use this argument very carefully and insist that it was an exceptional case in which you had no other choice. Keep this one in reserve for when you truly have nothing else to offer.

👋I was Absent When the Homework was Assigned

You might have earned your attendance tick in the register the day of the assignment announcement. Still, this story could fly if you can convince your teacher you were in the loo when they announced it. It would work particularly well if you are, indeed, a frequent visitor to the loo during class.

If you don't routinely excuse yourself from class, you must try to convince your teacher that they marked you present by mistake.

Here again, your classmates would have to vouch for you. Failing that, you might rope your parents into providing a note . Be sure it explains that, of course, you were absent on that day because you had to do something far more important than attending class.

Beware that telling teachers that you did not hear them announce the assignment may not be a good idea. It would be mean you did not pay attention in class. It is better not use excuses that can damage your reputation as a student and anger the teacher at the same time.

🆘Busy with Extra-curricular Activities and Volunteering

Did you know you could polish your civic, duty-bound image and still deploy homework excuses? Saying you couldn't do any homework because you were helping others would be a sure bet.

Our schools strive to provide citizenship education to all learners. If a student demonstrates social awareness, their teacher will be happy and proud about that.

Claiming team sports or group activities as your extracurricular activity is another good option. Even rowing, playing chess and singing in the church choir can be good excuses for not doing homework. They are beneficial activities that teach students new skills and widen their general knowledge.

Just remember that you should choose the reason you're too busy for homework wisely. If volunteering is your excuse, it would be best to actually volunteer. Should your deception find exposure, your fall from grace will be twice as far.

🤮I Was So Sick!

Not so long ago, in the halcyon, pre-COVID days, being sick was a classic homework excuse . One could claim a 24-hour bug, food poisoning or come to class looking convincingly wan and plead a fever the night before.

Not only would you be excused from turning in your assignments but you might have garnered a bit of sympathy... to say nothing of a handy extension on your deadline for turning work in.

Post-COVID, you may well be so ill that you're unable to distinguish your cat from your homework. However, if you claim you were bedridden and feverish, you may land yourself in quarantine. Missing out on classes, as well as leisure activities, can't outweigh the best excuses for not doing homework.

😎Tell the Truth

If you always dole out excuses for why your homework isn't done on time, perhaps it’s time to pull out your ace in the hole – the truth.

Honesty is still the best policy, after all. Your teacher will appreciate you telling the truth. It should be a refreshing change from the usual bombardment of (only somewhat believable) excuses.

Use truth-telling when you’re feeling especially sincere (and desperate). Or, the best yet: tell the truth all the time. The consequences for what we do (or don't do) may seem terrible, at the time. In reality, they often turn out to be less serious.

You teacher might give you additional homework to counterbalance the one you did not do. That way, you will still get a good mark and improve your subject knowledge. Besides, if you knew how to do homework , you wouldn't have to worry about recycling excuses and getting bad marks in class.

🎁Bonus Excuses

The all-time best excuses for not doing homework might not suit you. Or, maybe you've used them all at least once this school year. You might need extra excuses to save you from the wrath of Teacher :

• I left it at home
• I dropped it in the sewer on the way to school
• I left it in my other satchel/bookbag/binder/notebook
• I was looking it over and left it on the bus
• I let (insert name of classmate) borrow it and s/he did not give it back you may even claim that the treacherous friend turned your work in as theirs
• My little brother/sister drew all over it (or used it to make a paper aeroplane, a boat, a nest for their guinea pig...)
• My mother/father accidentally shredded it, along with other important documents
• My parents were looking it over and forgot to give it back
• My tutor accidentally packed it away with his papers
• I spilled (insert name of a document-ruining food or beverage) all over it

Admittedly, for all that they are plausible, some of these excuses are quite funny. Your teacher may give you props for your inventiveness when you use them. However, if chronic homework neglect is your study style, be careful not to use the same excuse too many times. Otherwise, your teacher may not be sympathetic towards you.

Especially not if you have a legitimate reason for not completing homework. In fact, it would be easier to concentrate on your homework , and save your inventiveness for creative writing assignments.

Enjoyed this article? Leave a rating!

A student by trade, Daniel spends most of his time working on that essay that's due in a couple of days' time. When he's not working, he can be found working on his salsa steps, or in bed.

Frequently asked questions

🤷‍♂️how do i excuse myself from unfinished homework.

There is no definite answer to this question as it depends on the person's situation and the school's policy. However, some ways to excuse oneself from unfinished homework could be to say that you are not feeling well, that you have other commitments, or that you do not have enough time.

😃What is a good excuse for not doing homework?

'I thought it was due tomorrow' is a classic, but any excuse from this list will work, if used properly.

⛔Why do I refuse to do homework?

Maybe you don't like homework because exhaustion or anxiety weigh you down. You might have other issues, like fear and perfectionism, and situational factors, like distractions and unclear instructions.

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My math teacher gave me detention when i said my sister drew on it

thankyou!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hello. Thank you for always good blog

My teachers to smart

I got detention for telling the truth. I’ve learnt something today from that always lie.

I had a detention when I said that my dog had eaten my homework

Good but i think my teacher wont beleive these excusise

TeachersCollegesj

Knowledge repository and useful advices

What is a good excuse for not doing your homework?

Table of Contents

• 1 What is a good excuse for not doing your homework?
• 2 What do you do when your teenager won’t do their homework?
• 3 What to say to your teacher when you don’t do your homework?
• 4 Why do so many students not do homework?
• 5 What should I do instead of doing my homework?
• 6 Why do students need feedback on their homework?

While some teachers may be more gullible than others, here are some of the excuses you could use.

• Stolen Backpack.
• Forgot my backpack in my Dad’s car and he is out of town.
• Fake period.
• A close relative died.
• Computer crashed.
• Be honest and tell the truth as it is.

What do you do when your teenager won’t do their homework?

What Parents Can Do to Promote Self-Sufficiency

• Offer limited help with homework. Parents can offer limited help with homework.
• Resist lecturing. Ask your teen for ways you can help, but don’t lecture.
• Empower your teenager. Chores are a great way to empower teens.
• Focus on strengths.

What to say to your teacher when you don’t do your homework?

It’s best to simply tell the truth, and let your teacher know why you weren’t able to complete your homework. A sincere apology can go a long way. You might say something like “I am really sorry, but I got behind on things and wasn’t able to finish my homework. Could I be excused just this once?

How do you apologize for not doing your homework?

I am very sorry that I did not complete the (class name, like math or reading, here) homework assignment you gave us on (date). The reason I didn’t complete it was (I was busy with family stuff, sick, forgot the assignment, whatever). I’m sorry and I will make up the assignment as soon as possible. Thanks.

How can I avoid homework?

How To Avoid Homework Stress

• Stick to a schedule.
• Practise good time management.
• Get started early.
• Review your agenda regularly.
• Stay organized.
• Ask the teacher questions.
• Organize a homework group.
• Walk away if it’s overwhelming.

Why do so many students not do homework?

What should i do instead of doing my homework, why do students need feedback on their homework.

Who was the principal that got rid of homework?

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How to Avoid Getting in Trouble for Not Doing Your Homework

Last Updated: April 9, 2024

This article was co-authored by Alicia Oglesby . Alicia Oglesby is a Professional School Counselor and the Director of School and College Counseling at Bishop McNamara High School outside of Washington DC. With over ten years of experience in counseling, Alicia specializes in academic advising, social-emotional skills, and career counseling. Alicia holds a BS in Psychology from Howard University and a Master’s in Clinical Counseling and Applied Psychology from Chestnut Hill College. She also studied Race and Mental Health at Virginia Tech. Alicia holds Professional School Counseling Certifications in both Washington DC and Pennsylvania. She has created a college counseling program in its entirety and developed five programs focused on application workshops, parent information workshops, essay writing collaborative, peer-reviewed application activities, and financial aid literacy events. This article has been viewed 100,515 times.

Homework generally isn’t that much fun. But it generally is a requirement that has a pretty decent-sized impact on your grade, so if you want (or need) to do well in a class, getting the homework done is a big deal. So what happens if you forget to do one of the assignments? You have a few options; the first and best is, of course, to not to forget to do it in the first place. But if that’s not an option, there are a few other measures you can take to try to get out of a homework scrape. Read on to find out more.

Using Good Judgment

• Explain why you didn’t do the homework--maybe you forgot about the assignment, got home late, fell asleep, etc. Don’t sugarcoat your reason, but do use some discretion; if you didn’t do your homework because you were at an all-night kegger, keep your reason general (ie, “I didn’t get home until late”) rather than overly specific (ie, “I was too busy doing keg stands”).
• Apologize. After giving your reason, sincerely apologize. Don’t gloss over this part--the sincerity of your apology will impact how likely your teacher is to want to help you. If you don't feel comfortable talking to the teacher directly, feel free to send them an email or leave them a note.
• Explain that it won’t happen again--and make sure it doesn’t. Let your teacher know that this was a rare instance of you lapsing on a responsibility and that you’ll be careful that it doesn’t happen again. And--this part is important--keep your word. If you make forgetting your homework habitual, your teacher will not only stop believing your excuses, they’ll rapidly become less sympathetic to your apologies.
• Ask for another day to finish the assignment. The best case scenario here is that your teacher will grant you extra time to complete the assignment and won’t penalize you for turning it in past the original deadline. More likely, though, your teacher will offer to let you turn in the assignment late, for partial credit. Don’t gripe about or be ungrateful for partial-credit--it will make it less likely that your teacher will extend you a similar opportunity in the future.

• Ask the teacher to help you understand the assignment and to let you have another chance at completing it. This both buys you more time and has the added benefit of getting you one-on-one homework help as well.

• If the story’s creative or amusing enough, your teacher might cut you some slack simply because you didn’t give them one of the same boring excuses they always hear.
• For example, maybe it just so happened that your parents went out last night and left you with a family friend who turned out to be a clairvoyant and burned all of your homework because he looked into the future and saw that if he didn’t destroy it all your cat would rip your homework to shreds while you slept and you would breathe in a fatal amount of air-borne paper bits and choke to death.

Avoiding Bad Excuses

• It should be obvious, but don’t use “the dog ate my homework.” You might as well not even bother coming up with an excuse at all.
• Don’t just say “I lost it” unless you can come up with a believable set of extenuating circumstances to explain how it got lost. Saying it just got lost randomly is pretty transparent.

• Instead of blaming the printer or your laptop, etc., explain that you had trouble when you were trying to print (or whatever) the homework right before class but that you’ll email it to your teacher by the end of the day. You can buy more time with that, and quickly type it up.
• Just be sure you actually do send it to them by the end of the day--preferably by 5 pm. [2] X Research source

• First, since it’s your responsibility, not theirs, to make sure you’re up-to-date on assignments, this excuse is pretty much like telling the teacher that it was your own fault.
• Second, because, from your teacher’s point of view, an entire classroom of other students managed to find out about and do the homework, so it clearly isn’t as hard as you’re making it out to be. [3] X Research source
• And finally, the ignorance excuse won’t work because when you’re absent, your teacher expects that you’ll find out everything you missed. If didn’t, your teacher will again see it as your own fault.

Avoiding the Situation in the First Place

• Start by writing down every assignment and its due date as soon as it’s assigned.
• Be sure to write all of your assignments down in the same place so you don’t miss any or have to go on a desperate search every time you want to know what’s due. A day planner, dedicated homework notebook, or scheduling app are all good options.

• Whenever you get an assignment, estimate how long it will take to complete and set aside the necessary time accordingly.
• If it’s an assignment that will take several days or even several weeks, set aside as many blocks of time as you’ll need to complete it over that span of time.

• Don’t procrastinate on homework--don’t let yourself play video games or chat on Facebook until you’ve finished your night’s assignments.
• Do the harder assignments first. Getting the harder work out of the way first is a more efficient and rewarding use of your time.
• Reader Poll: We asked 237 wikiHow readers how to avoid making the same mistake, and 9% said they would ask loved ones to hold them accountable. [Take Poll] While this may not be the best strategy according to our readers, try making a routine for yourself.

• If you have a study-hall period, a free period, a few minutes between classes, a 10-15 minute bus ride home, etc., use that time to work on homework. Sure, you’d rather be talking to friends or playing on your phone, but if you want to have your homework done, you’ll need to actually take the time to do it. [4] X Research source

• Start by approaching the teacher. Explain your difficulties and ask for their help. That’s what your teachers are there for, after all--to help you learn. (And if they show any reluctance to help, remind them of this fact.) They’re the best source of help since they’re the ones making and grading the homework, and having the help of an insider is often invaluable.
• Get help from a classmate. If your teacher isn’t able to give as much help as you need, supplement their help with help from a classmate who understands the material and is doing well in the class. If you aren’t sure who that might be, ask your teacher for suggestions.
• Get a tutor. Many schools offer free peer-tutoring services that can be a significant help. Ask your teacher or an administrator whether such services are available. If not, consider looking into hiring a tutor. There are a number of professional tutoring services to choose from, or you might try hiring a local college student for tutoring help.

• Even if you think you’re a great multi-tasker, trying to do homework while also texting, catching up on Facebook, and tweeting about how much you hate homework is actually hurting you more than helping you get through the process.
• Moreover, though multitasking can be an asset for some activities, it isn’t an asset when studying. When you’re multitasking, your mind leaves your current train of thought (like, say, trigonometry) and takes up a new train (maybe texting a friend about tomorrow’s plans), and the result is that you end up doing worse on both.
• Find a quiet, distraction-free space to do your studying. The better you’re able to concentrate, the better you’ll do on your work and the more quickly you’ll get through it. Put away or turn off anything you know will distract you (your phone, Facebook alerts, whatever). [6] X Research source
• If you find yourself being distracted by thoughts of other things you should or want to be doing, keep a piece of paper next to you where you can write down those thoughts as they come up. Don’t dwell on them, just write them down and know you can get back to them later. [7] X Research source
• Set small goals and reward yourself when you achieve them. For example, set a goal to study for 15-20 minutes straight and then reward yourself with a small treat when you do so. [8] X Research source

Expert Q&A

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• ↑ http://www.brighthubeducation.com/study-and-learning-tips/51078-10-most-common-homework-excuses/
• ↑ https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/homework.html?view=ptr
• ↑ http://success.oregonstate.edu/learning-corner/learning-college/concentration-distractions

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