Readings rarely have a due date in Canvas, so they don't show up anywhere you'd check. Secretariat can pull each class session's readings from the syllabus into a to-do due by the time class starts, attach the matching Canvas file, and gather everything you need to print into one PDF.
Why readings get missed
Most readings live in a table in the syllabus, not as Canvas assignments. Nothing reminds you, and the file is buried three folders deep in Canvas Files.
How Secretariat handles readings
- Each class session's readings are read from the syllabus along with its dates, so Free gets them from its once-a-semester syllabus read. Student Pro reads the syllabus again when it changes, and its Your courses, read for you also pulls readings and prep from Canvas pages.
- Each class session with readings becomes one to-do, due by the time class starts.
- A reading is only dated where the syllabus writes that session's date. Nothing is dated from a week number or a weekday.
- On Student Pro, if a class announcement changes that day's reading, the announcement wins.
- When a reading's name clearly matches a file in the class's Canvas, the file goes on the to-do. No AI is used for that match.
- The print queue, on every plan, gathers the Canvas files attached to today's and tomorrow's to-dos, lets you pull in ones from later, and merges them into one PDF so they print in one go.
Limits
- Plenty of readings are books you buy, so many won't have a file. The to-do still shows up.
- Files need Canvas connected with the Chrome extension or a token. The Canvas calendar link carries no files.
- If the same reading is already on your list from Canvas or your calendar that day, the syllabus one steps aside so it isn't there twice.
Getting started
Make an account and connect Canvas, or upload a syllabus in Settings, Your classes. Rereading a changed syllabus and Canvas pages takes Student Pro, at $8.99 a month or $29.99 a semester. See pricing.
Common questions
- Can I print all of today's readings at once?
- Yes. The print queue gathers the Canvas files on today's and tomorrow's to-dos and merges them into one PDF, so it's one print dialog. It's on every plan.
- Does it make study guides from my readings?
- Tap Study on an exam or quiz and Secretariat reads that class's slides and readings on Canvas, plus notes you add, and makes a study guide. Free makes one guide a month, and Student Pro adds quizzes and flashcards.
- What if my professor changes a reading in an announcement?
- On Student Pro, a newer class announcement's reading takes the place of the syllabus's reading for that day.
JoinFree to start, no card. See pricing