Ten Commandments of Computer Science and Software Engineering

Note: This is a slightly modified version of an old document, The Ten Commandments of Programming, published in a student computer organization handbook from the 1970's. The advice from those students is still valid today.

1. IThou shalt begin thy labs and projects early and manage thy time effectively. (Blessed are those who completeth assignments ahead of time; they shall inherit good grades.)
2. Thou shalt not fear thy professors, for they are also mortals. Thou shalt introduce thyself to them.
3. Thou shalt not hesitate to seek assistance when needed, but bear in mind that professors help those who helps themselves.
4. Thou shalt document thy projects thoroughly.
5. Thou shalt not allow minor difficulties with thy brethren to become major difficulties, for thou shalt be working with these people for the next 3 to 5 years.
6. Thou shalt not embellish a project until thou hast met the minimum requirements, for if thou dost fail in these endeavors, thou wilt have a well embellished project worth few points.
7. Be not deceived by "open book" tests, for they are the devil! STUDY, STUDY, STUDY...
8. Thou shalt spend many days and nights in relentless toil in the computing labs, so get used to it!
9. Thou shalt check thy mail folder daily.
10. Thou shalt cultivate other interests to ensure that evil spirits do not possess thy soul.