December is a tough month for instructors with finals, end of term exams, and other projects. If you're already happily on break and still reading this, maybe think of it as a way to make 2026 go a bit easier!

One phrase I heard repeatedly as an educator was this: It's easier to think on your seat than on your feet! Taking the time to make expectations clear and to provide resources before the due date can often help to avoid difficult conversations later.

Take the time to plan and discuss "concerns" before they become problematic. Share resources that address topical issues when sharing the assignment initially, rather than waiting.

Let's start with these three:

1. Update assignment instructions to include what (if any) AI usage is acceptable. 
2. Provide a graphic organizer for students to use to record AI use for a works cited page.
3. Encourage self-monitoring for citation and referencing by providing a citation checklist.

What other resources do you use to avoid difficult discussions through preparation? Share below