CanvasPAL - SkyNET

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  CanvasPAL Logo

Inspiration We noticed students struggle with managing assignments and staying focused due to constant online distractions. We wanted to create a tool that simplifies academic tracking, boosts productivity, and informs students what a weight of an assignment can have on your overall grade.

What it does CanvasPAL is a browser extension that syncs with Canvas, providing real-time updates on assignments, deadlines, grades, and more. We use an algorithm, using CanvasAPI, Google Database Storage API, and webscraping to grab data we need to use in our algorithm to give students an accurate idea of their grade before and after an assignment. It also detects time spent on distractions like YouTube and gently nudges users back to work.

How we built it We used JavaScript, HTML/CSS, and browser extension APIs to integrate Canvas data with real-time tracking. For notifications and reminders, we leveraged content scripts to monitor browsing habits and trigger alerts.

Challenges we ran into Integrating Canvas’s API and ensuring data accuracy was tricky. Balancing notifications to be helpful without being intrusive was another major challenge.

Accomplishments that we're proud of We successfully built a working extension that syncs with Canvas and offers real-time assignment tracking. The smart reminder system also works effectively, helping users stay focused.

What we learned We deepened our understanding of browser extension development, API integration, and user experience design, especially in creating non-intrusive productivity tools.

What’s next for CanvasPAL - SkyNET We plan to add grade impact projections, personalized study recommendations, and AI-driven focus modes to optimize productivity further — making CanvasPAL an essential academic assistant. Possibly creating a monetization format.

Built With

• api
• css
• database
• extension
• html
• javascript
• python