Time Management Tips

Break big tasks into smaller steps to make them more manageable. Large assignments can feel overwhelming to start, which makes it easier to procrastinate. Divide them into smaller, pieces and focus on accomplishing one thing at a time.

Set a goal for your time to help you focus and not wasted time. (But it’s also okay to change your goals if you see something is not going to happen.) Better to make forward progress than to give up and not make any progress.

Limit distractions by putting your phone on silent and keeping it away from you. Keep your workspace clean and free from things that pull your attention away. Consider listening to instrumental music to block other sound distraction.

Use a timer and work for a set time and then reward yourself with a break for water or snack or exercise. This helps you stay motivated and focused when it’s time to work.

Stay organized. List what you need to do. Put most important things first and list their deadlines. Keep a calendar of what you need to do when. Keep classes separate in different folders. Keep things in their folders/notebooks. Know where your work is.

Do today what’s not needed until next week. You won’t be rushed if you have things done early. Don’t put off what you can have done today. Relieve yourself of the stress of last minute work.

Sleep. Don’t prop yourself up with caffeine. Your brain will work better. Your body will work better.