Being a business major means there is always a lot going on. Between lectures, group projects, and trying to keep up with homework, it can get overwhelming fast. Some of my classes move really quick, and sometimes it feels like you are just expected to already know everything.

I first used McGraw Hill Connect in one of my business core classes. At first, I just thought it was where we submitted homework, but after messing around with it more, I realized it actually helps a lot with learning the material. It breaks everything down, and I can easily keep track of what is due and what I still need to work on. It is basically my go-to for making sure I do not miss anything.

One of my favorite parts of Connect is the SmartBook®. It is not just a textbook. It actually asks you questions while you are reading and helps you focus on stuff you do not fully understand yet. I used to waste time rereading chapters, but now I just go through SmartBook, and it shows me what I need to work on. It has been really helpful, especially in the harder classes where the lectures alone are not enough to really get it.

Also, having all the assignments and due dates listed in Connect is super helpful. I am taking a lot of classes at once, so it is easy to lose track. The dashboard in Connect makes it really clear what is coming up, and I get reminders too, which helps when things get busy.

Then there is Sharpen, which I did not know about until more recently. In my business classes, especially when I was just starting out, I felt like I needed extra help breaking things down. Sharpen gives quick video explainations that are perfect when I do not have the energy or time to read a whole chapter again. Watching a couple videos before quizzes through Ssharpen helps, or if something from lecture did not totally make sense.

What is nice about Sharpen is that the videos are not long or boring. They get right to the point. I can watch them between classes or when I am eating, and still feel like I learned something. And after each video, there are usually a few practice questions to help lock it in. I really like that part because it keeps me from just zoning out while watching.

Between the two, Connect helps me stay organized and on top of deadlines, and Sharpen helps me actually understand the material when I need a quick refresher. I feel like they work really well together. One gives structure and the other gives support.

Honestly, college can get stressful really quickly, especially if you are like me and juggling multiple business classes at once. These tools have helped me feel more in control of my schedule and my grades. If you are feeling behind or just want something to make things easier, I would definitely recommend trying out both Connect and Sharpen.