Checklists are a real time-saver. They help you remember the most important steps of a process, they make it so you don’t forget important things, they help you complete tasks in the most sensible order, and they make you feel like you have accomplished something when you can check it off the list!
I have a new semester checklist for each class I teach. I update it throughout the semester as new policies and procedures arise, and I always revisit right after the semester begins to make sure I have updated it with any new ideas while they are fresh in my mind.
This checklist is not only important from semester to semester, but it is especially helpful when I haven’t taught a course in a few semesters. It helps frame my preparation for a successful semester.