As the school year ends, more and more teachers are having their students write essays, whether it be the senior paper, or a quick assignment in between other curriculum to refine skills for the next level. Whatever the reason is, more and more essays are being written, and a healthy handful are supposed to be typed out instead of handwritten.

There are many reasons why teachers have moved away from traditional essays on paper and towards computer-based essays, which include but are not limited to neatness, efficiency, and to make sure students do their workload. After all, it is easier to use your big handwriting as an excuse for two pages than it is to type two pages. Even so, typing an essay is not as easy as it seems for some. Even living in an age where smart phones and tablets rule, not everyone has a computer at home. Still, essays are required.

So what do they do?

They still have to do the essay, but teachers are willing to make accommodations for them. As students, we tend to forget that teachers are people, too, and can be more than reasonable, if you ask. “Because I don’t have a computer, Ms. Greco gives me the option of handwriting it,” Jordan Blakely, a sophomore honors English student, said.

“Most of Helgeson’s essays are in-class, and that helps a lot,” Mariana Guitterez, another sophomore student, said. “If I just finish them in class, I’m fine.”

Even if a student does not finish it in class, going to the school’s library during SSP or lunch is always an option. While these may not be the most exciting alternatives, they are options. The school library is usually open and fast computers are available, so just keep your eyes open. If you cannot make it to the library, talk to your teacher about the essay and explain to them your situation. They’ll be more than willing to help you out if you’re going to put effort into your work.