Math 2300 Homework Guidelines

• Write clearly on 8.5” x 11” paper. You may write in either pencil or pen (though I highly recommend pencil). If you use ink that bleeds through, please use only one side of the paper. If you use a spiral notebook, tear off those annoying little tabs (failure to do so will result in a deduction of 10% of the total points possible for the assignment).

• Work in NEAT column(s), at most 2 per side—this is not a contest to see how much you can fit on one piece of paper. Leave at least one line between problems.

• Always write the problem number and enough of the statement of the problem to know what is being solved. This will aid you in studying for exams.

• If the problem involves several steps, either circle, box, or highlight your final answer. The grader may deduct points if he/she doesn’t know where your problem ends.

• Show your work correctly and clearly. No one should have to squint at, or decipher what you have written. Not only will the grader have to read your assignments, you will have to study from them. If you make a mistake, erase it completely or cross it out neatly. Note: if the grader cannot read your homework she/he will not grade it and will give you no credit for the assignment.

• If the problem involves a graph or drawing, sketch it neatly and label appropriately. Graphs should be big enough so that the graph and the labels are clearly understood. Feel free to tape or glue graphs/drawings into your homework (say if you use graph paper), or attach graphs/drawings at the end of your assignment with the reference clearly stated in the appropriate problem.

• “Explain” means one or two sentences. All will be graded for grammar and spelling.

• Staple all pages together. I will not bring a stapler to class; it is your responsibility to have your homework stapled. Failure to staple homework will result in a deduction of 5% of the total points possible for the assignment.

• Please print your name, and the HW number and/or sections due at the top right corner of the top sheet. Do not fold your homework.

• You should consider the problems I assign to be the absolute minimum work given to help you grasp the material. You should do as many problems as needed so you feel comfortable with the material. You may ask me about any problem, whether it is assigned or not.

• It might be a good idea to work out some of the problems on scratch paper as a “rough draft,” and then re-write a neat final version. That way if you get stuck on a problem in the middle, you don’t have to leave a blank space for it and then run out of room when you go back to finish the problem.