5 Great Alternatives to Writing a College Paper

While the particular paper to be avoided is for my freshman level English Comp class, these can be applied to any paper or project that you desire to avoid like the Plague.

1) Write a blog entry.
-This is a prime example. I don't want to write the English paper, so I am writing this ABOUT not writing my English paper. I've managed to avoid the paper and put off the guilt by not doing something completely unrelated to the paper.

2) Go outside.
-Physical activity will provide endorphins that schoolwork quickly drain. When you get back to the paper/project, you might actually WANT to do it!

3) Volunteer.
-No teacher can refuse the excuse, "I was out late feeding the homeless/building a ramp for a man in a wheelchair/reading to children in the burn unit (or whatever it is you do) and didn't have time to do the homework." It's a lot more effective and a lot more believable than, "My dog ate my homework," though I have heard that that really does happen.

4) Join a club.
-Yes, join a club. It doesn't have to be the debate club or chess team (although those are fine clubs to join...I was on both). Clubs can be for anything. There are clubs that build robots, clubs that watch cartoons/anime, clubs that read or write together, clubs based around a specific religion, and if there isn't a club for what you want to do, MAKE IT! Starting a club is great (and also counts as volunteering). Find out what's offered in your area and get busy - too busy to write that paper.

And finally....you'll love this one....

5) Do it.
-I know, I know. You have parents and teachers to tell you to do your homework. Still, the best way to not have to do something later is to do it now. Sure, you don't WANT to, but will you really want to do it later? Just give it some thought. You might be surprised at how great you feel once it's out of the way.