Getting Started

Do I need to create an account?

No! BOPPPS Lesson Planner works without any account or sign-in. Just open the planner and start building your lesson immediately.

Is this really free?

Yes, completely free with no hidden costs. All features are available to everyone. If you find the tool valuable, you can optionally support the project to help with ongoing development and hosting.

How do I save my work?

Your work auto-saves to your browser's local storage. For long-term backups, export your lesson as JSON using the Export button. You can re-import this JSON file later to continue editing.

What's the difference between Lesson Template and Planner (Basic)?

Lesson Template is the full-featured builder with rich text editing, slides, media, and export options. Planner (Basic) is a quick outlining tool for jotting down notes before building the full lesson.

Privacy & Data Storage

Where is my data stored?

All your lesson data is stored locally in your browser using localStorage. Nothing is uploaded to servers unless you choose to export a file.

Can you see my lessons?

No. We have zero access to your lesson content. Everything stays in your browser.

What happens if I clear my browser data?

Your lessons will be deleted. This is why we strongly recommend exporting your work as JSON regularly as a backup.

Can I use this on multiple devices?

Yes, but you'll need to export your lessons as JSON from one device and import them on another. Data doesn't sync automatically since there's no cloud storage.

Does the AI Prompt Generator store my prompts?

No. The AI prompt generator creates text locally. If you use external AI tools (like ChatGPT) with the generated prompts, those external services will have their own data policies.

Features & Usage

Do I have to use AI features?

Absolutely not. The AI Prompt Generator is completely optional. You can build entire lessons manually without ever touching the AI tools.

What export formats are available?

You can export as:

  • JSON – Editable backup you can re-import later
  • HTML – Interactive web page for online sharing
  • Slides – Presentation format with navigation
  • Print – Clean document ready to print or save as PDF

Can I add my own images and videos?

Yes! You can upload images or provide embed links for videos (YouTube, Vimeo, etc.). The tool also includes preset media for common teaching scenarios.

How do I cite sources in my lesson?

Use the citation controls in the Lesson Template builder. The tool supports APA-style formatting. Add source notes alongside activities and compile references in the Resources section.

Can I reorder sections or slides?

Yes. Use the drag handles to reorder content blocks. Slides can be added, removed, and navigated using the slide controls in each section.

Technical Questions

Which browsers are supported?

BOPPPS Planner works on all modern browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. We recommend using the latest version for best performance.

Does this work offline?

After the initial page load, most features work offline. However, the AI Prompt Generator and external media embeds (like YouTube videos) require an internet connection.

Can I use this on mobile or tablet?

The site is mobile-responsive, but the full Lesson Template builder works best on desktop/laptop for complex editing. The Planner (Basic) mode is more mobile-friendly for quick notes.

I found a bug. How do I report it?

Thank you! Please contact us via the form below and describe:

  • What you were doing when the bug occurred
  • What browser and device you're using
  • Any error messages you saw

My export isn't working. What should I do?

Try these steps:

  1. Make sure pop-ups are enabled for this site
  2. Check that you have enough disk space
  3. Try a different export format (e.g., JSON instead of HTML)
  4. Clear your browser cache and try again
If problems persist, contact us with details.

About the BOPPPS Method

Is BOPPPS suitable for my subject/level?

Yes! BOPPPS is a flexible framework that works across subjects (STEM, humanities, professional training) and levels (K-12, university, corporate). See our examples page for inspiration.

How long should each BOPPPS stage take?

It depends on your lesson length and objectives. As a rough guide for a 60-minute class:

  • Bridge-In: 3-5 minutes
  • Objectives: 1-2 minutes
  • Pre-Assessment: 3-5 minutes
  • Participatory Learning: 35-40 minutes
  • Post-Assessment: 5-10 minutes
  • Summary: 2-5 minutes
Adjust based on your context.

Can I skip stages?

While all six stages contribute to effective teaching, you can adapt BOPPPS to your needs. For example, a short workshop might have a minimal pre-assessment. The framework is a guide, not a rigid rule.

Where can I learn more about BOPPPS?

Check our About page for research references and further reading. The original BOPPPS model was developed by Douglas Kerr at the British Columbia Institute of Technology.

Still have questions?

Can't find your answer above? Send us a message and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Or email us directly: contact@gradingpilot.com

Response time: We typically reply within 1-2 business days. This is a personal project maintained by one educator, so please be patient!

Ready to start planning?

Build your first BOPPPS lesson with our free, easy-to-use planner.

Open the Planner → View Help Center