Time Management
Create a Schedule and Note Deadlines
Create a daily timetable or schedule with all the tasks to be done, it helps you stay on track. Write down all your deadlines ahead of time. This way, you can schedule study time and time to work on assignments starting with what is due first. Include important activities and free time, too.
Place your schedule in a visible and check it every day. Scratch off every completed task to keep track of accomplishments.
You can set up a schedule using digital tools (phones, computers or apps).
Schedule Breaks
Make sure you allocate a part of your time to breaks, and use these breaks wisely. The time between work, classes, activities, and meetings can be used to complete tasks.
You may also use the Pomodoro Technique, that is work in short intervals and take short, regular, timed breaks or “Pomodoros": you time yourself to work 25-minute spans, with 5-minute breaks in between and away from your study space. Every 3-4 Pomodoros, take a longer break. Checkout this useful web-based Pomodoro.
Create a Checklist
Create a daily or weekly checklist that would also help you manage your time more efficiently. Note down the upcoming assignments and projects for that day/week. You can include the checklist items in your schedule. Going back to the checklist will help you remember all tasks to be completed. Feel free to use colors by type of tasks (grocery, projects, assignement, physical activity, etc,)
Set SMART goals
Inline with your schedule and checklist, set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound), and start by completing the small tasks up to the largest -one thing at a time. If you get overwhelmed, revert back to these goals to reset you workload. You are also encouraged to set goals for each study session.
Remove Distractions and Time Wasters
Few minutes before starting your studies, turn off the mobile phone, tablet, TV, etc.. and sign out of social media accounts on your laptop (especially if using it to study) to avoid distractions with notifications. Remove all other non-electronic distractions.
Sleep Enough and Well
Getting enough and good sleep (7-8 hours) is essential for the brain to recharge and have better energy needed to complete your tasks/assignments/projects at hand. Good sleep improves the focus and minimizes the time wasted with wandering and distracting thoughts due to fatigue.
References
Global Purdue. (2018, April 19). Time management tips for busy college students. Student Life. https://www.purdueglobal.edu/blog/student-life/time-management-busy-college-students/
9 Proven time management techniques and tools. (2019, March 3). https://www.usa.edu/blog/time-management-techniques/