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Tips for Students
Ensure your device is optimized to receive and send responses quickly by following these steps:
- Check Your Account: Double-check that you are signed into the correct Top Hat account and the correct course for the day.
- Use Supported Browsers: On web, use the latest versions of Google Chrome or Firefox. Avoid using unsupported browsers like Internet Explorer.
- Close Background Apps: Shut down non-essential apps to prevent them from hogging Wi-Fi bandwidth or device memory.
- Prepare Early: Download or update the Top Hat app before or after class, as large downloads can strain classroom networks.
- Simplify Your Connection: Connect only one device to the campus Wi-Fi at a time to reduce interference.
- Restart the App: Fully close the Top Hat app and reopen it. If using a browser, try refreshing the page or opening it in an Incognito/Private window.
- Switch Connections: Switch to cellular data if the room's Wi-Fi is unstable or slow.
- Disable Interference: Turn off VPNs, ad-blockers, or other third-party browser extensions that may prevent content from loading.
- SMS Participation: Use SMS Submissions if your data connection is weak. (Learn how to submit via SMS).
Pro-Tip: Educators, sharing these tips in your syllabus or at the start of term can significantly reduce "connection panic" during high-stakes questions.