Incentive

Cognitive psychology

Engineering

Graduation (instrument)

Microeconomics

Social psychology

Economics

Computer science

Sign (mathematics)

Mechanical engineering

Database

Psychology

Salience (neuroscience)

Mathematics

Commit

Mathematical analysis

Procrastination

Commitment device

American Economic Journal Applied Economics

We provide first evidence that a soft commitment device enhances progress in education and, more generally, improves the completion of complex tasks—such as passing exams. In our field experiment, students can sign a nonbinding agreement and commit to staying on track for graduation. We find that those who were offered the soft commitment device are more likely to sign up for, take part in, and pass exams. A pure reminder treatment does not change behavior, which suggests that the effects are not driven by increased salience. We also show that procrastinators benefit most from the commitment device. (JEL C93, D12, D91, I23)

Soft Commitments, Reminders, and Academic Performance