Online courses are a change from the on-campus experience because it's up to you to motivate yourself to complete coursework. Without an instructor looking over your shoulder (literally), you may find yourself losing track of what you need to accomplish. Online instructors are available to answer your questions, but they can't be sure that you're spending as much time as you should be on the class.

Schedule your time wisely and think of an online class like any other. Set aside a specific time each day designated to coursework. Treating your courses as seriously as you would a full-time job may ensure your assignments get done and you're learning what's needed for the exams.

Excellent tip!

Self-motivation is key...the fact that students don't physically go to class can cause a disconnect, and being able to prioritize coursework as just as important as the rest of your daily tasks definitely helps!

I agree! students may develop a tendency to leave their work on tomorrow and gradually it becomes a habit. One must take online courses only when he or she is fully determined. Besides this, juggling between work, family and studies can be tiresome. So, it's better to plan your things well in advance so that you can devote ample time for your studies.