Time Management Tips
Studying for a huge test can be stressful, and figuring out how to squeeze in all of that information in a short amount of time can be tough. Time management is the key to being able to juggle you every day tasks and activities with school work. It is extremely important to know and understand how to manage your time so that you can be more efficient and get things done on time. Sometimes, parties and family activities along with a job can all be overwhelming, and other things like schoolwork can be put on the back burner. Understanding and knowing how to keep things organized and in order can be helpful for time management. Here are a few tips to help you better manage your time:
- Make a list and stick with it. Making lists helps you prioritize the importance of things you need to get done.
- Keep a calendar. Whether it's a wall calendar or something on your computer, calendars are a great way to write down and track deadlines and other important events.
- Learn when to say no. Sometimes a boss may ask for overtime, or a friend might need a favor that takes up your time. Don't be afraid to tell people no when you have other priorities that need your attention.
- Make sure you get enough sleep. Without proper sleep, you'll feel sluggish during the day and won't be able to concentrate on the tasks at hand.
- Let people know about your schedule. Sometimes, telling others what you need to be doing can help to hold you accountable.
- Use your spare time wisely. If you find that you have some "down time," make that extra time work for you by getting tasks done, whether it's squeezing in some study time or working on a paper.
- Take breaks and take care of yourself. Sometimes, you may feel overwhelmed or stressed. Find time to relax, take a breather, and remember to be calm.
- Plan ahead as best you can. Think about the deadline time and how much time you'll have between the start date and the time you have to finish. Then, work on an outlined schedule and stick with it.
- Be aware of your study environment. Don't forget that loud noises, friends coming over, and the television can all be distracting when trying to study. These distractions can keep you from accomplishing your goals on time, so try to avoid them.
- Attitude is everything. Although school tasks can get stressful, having a positive attitude about them can really help you to get things done.
- Break big tasks up into smaller ones. If you have a huge thesis due, or a large project, take it and break it down into smaller goals that you achieve one at a time.
- Ask for advice. Ask around and find out what your friends and family members do when they have deadlines. Sometimes you will find out some helpful tips you may not have thought about before.
- Get into a routine. By setting up a strict schedule from the very beginning, you'll be much more inclined to stay with it throughout the project.
- Remind yourself of tasks that need completing. Use sticky notes to remind you of things. Stick them in the bathroom, on your desk, or even in your closet. These little reminders can come in handy later down the road.
- Don't forget your friends! When you're stressed and busy, you might not even realize that your social life has been neglected. Remember to try and make some time for fun so you don't burn out.
Here are some helpful resources that can help you improve your time management skills: