A syllabus is a document that outlines all the essential information about a college course. It is a formal document that is typically given at the beginning of a course or within the first few weeks of class. A syllabus serves as a guide to a course and what will be expected of students over the course of the semester or quarter. It provides a map of the curriculum, identifies central questions and themes, and lists the topics that will be covered. A syllabus also includes course policies, rules, and grading policies. It is a helpful tool for both students and teachers, especially when keeping track of their course topics, classroom activities, and other academic requirements. By clearly communicating expectations, instructors can circumvent a whole host of student grievances and misunderstandings during the semester. The syllabus also acts as a contract between the instructor and students, telling students what to expect from the instructor in terms of grading and policies.