TL;DR: Ensure your rubric is under 8,000 words, less than 20MB, and simplify the content. Avoid complex tables and unnecessary formatting.
Step 1: Check File Size
Rubric uploads can fail if the file is too large. Make sure your file is under 20 MB. If it’s over, try compressing it or removing unnecessary content, such as images or excessive formatting.
Step 2: Simplify Your Rubric
Overly complex rubrics can trip up CoGrader’s processing engine. Focus on clean, clear content. Remove:
Extra text not related to grading
Unused sections or duplicate descriptions
Heavy formatting like nested tables or colored shading
Step 3: Reduce the Number of Characters
Rubrics over 8,000 words may fail to upload or slow down processing. If yours is longer, consider splitting it into multiple parts or removing non-essential language.
Step 4: Use Clear Table Structures
If your rubric includes tables, check that they follow a consistent structure. Misaligned columns, merged cells, or inconsistent row headers can cause upload errors.
Step 5: Recompile the PDF If All Else Fails
If CoGrader appears to accept the rubric but nothing uploads, the issue may be due to hidden elements in the file itself. Try this:
Open the PDF
Take screenshots of each page
Paste them into a blank Google Doc or Word doc
Save/export as a new PDF, then upload to CoGrader
This process removes embedded formatting and metadata that can prevent uploads.
Recommended Limits
For smooth uploading:
Under 8,000 words
Under 20MB file size
If you exceed these, the upload may still work, but performance isn't guaranteed.