• You’ve been working on a task for a long time but you still feel stuck or confused.

• You’re not sure what the instructions or expectations mean.

• You’re making repeated mistakes despite trying different approaches.

• You feel frustrated, anxious, or overwhelmed by the task.

• You’re missing deadlines because the work feels unmanageable.

• You’ve tried your usual strategies, but nothing seems to be working.

1. Step One: Identify the Problem

   • What are you having trouble with? The more specific you are, the faster someone will be able to help!

     • Helpful Example: "I'm having a problem with question #4 on my current test in my Algebra class. I don't understand what it's asking me to do."

     • Unhelpful Example: "I don't understand it."

2. Step Two: Identify the Support

   • Who can help with your problem? The closer someone is to a problem, the better they can help!

     • Helpful Example: "I'm going to contact my science teacher for help with my science test!"

     • Unhelpful Example: "I'm going to ask ChatGPT for help with my essay."

3. Step Three: Connect the Problem with the Support

   • How do you ask for support? The more respectful you are, the more someone wants to help you!

     • Helpful Example: "Hello! I don't understand the current history assignment. Will you please help me understand the last part better? Thank you!"

     • Unhelpful Example: "I don't understand. Help me!"

4. Step Four: Follow Up and Reflect

   • After someone offers help, how do you proceed? You say thank you! And reflect on what they taught you:

     • Did their support help you? Fantastic! You did a great job asking for help! Keep going!

     • Do you need more support? Ask them politely for: 1) more of their time, or 2) a referral to someone else

Remember: Asking for help is normal, smart, and shows you care about your learning. Everyone needs support sometimes, and it’s okay to reach out early and often.

Hello, _____________ (insert your teacher's name),

I am having trouble with _______________________ (insert your class name, assignment number, etc.).

I don't understand _____________________________ (insert a specific section, topic, question, or concern).

Will you please help me? Thank you for your time!

_____________ (insert your name)