Independently managing coursework in college can be challenging for students. Throw in a job, sports, clubs, and social activities and it can feel downright overwhelming. Here are some strategies to help students find enough time for all their competing responsibilities. If you’ve got a teen, help them learn and implement these techniques in their final years of high school so they’ve got solid organizational skills by the time they start college.
This post is sponsored by Northwest University.
1. Time Blocking: Time blocking is a time management technique in which you set aside blocks of time to focus on specific tasks. Instead of going from one task to the next – and never feeling like you have control over your workload – make a plan for the whole day. For example:
8-12: work
12-2: math homework
2-4: English paper
4-5: exercise
5-6: dinner
6-8: Bible study
8-10: History reading
2. Plan the Whole Term: Whether you’re on a quarter or semester schedule, print out hard-copy versions of the months and pencil in all the due dates/exam dates from your syllabi so you have an overview of the quarter. Break out large projects into smaller tasks and set your own due dates for them on your master schedule. Add in sporting events, work hours (if they’re regular), holidays, and other important events.
3. Plan the Week: Sit down every Sunday with your master schedule and plan out the week so you have a clear idea of what you have to get done, and when you’ll have the time to do them.
4. Daily To-Do Lists: Consider making daily to-do lists to keep you on track. You can even make these daily to-dos during your weekly planning session to plan out the whole week at once. Here is where you can pencil in other tasks you need to take care of like “do laundry,” “go grocery shopping,” or “pay bills.”
5. Turn Off Your Phone: When you need to maximize productivity, turn off your phone. Don’t just put it on silent or turn off notifications; power it down completely. This will eliminate the temptation to hop on Instagram for a couple minutes, only to discover you accidentally wasted half your study time watching adorable animal videos.
6. Leave Your Room: Further avoid distractions by studying in the library or other quiet study area. Working in an area that’s designated specifically for productivity will help you get more done.
7. Get Enough Sleep: Your brain functions better when it’s well-rested. Set a bedtime and stick to it! This will help you get more done during your waking hours and maximize your productivity. Coffee is good, but it’s no substitute for good rest!
Northwest University is committed to offering the best academic experience for our students. With traditional programs, as well as flexible online learning options, there are plenty of options at Northwest University. Providing academic support, spiritual growth opportunities, and thriving community, they have everything to help your child grow academically, spiritually, and personally. Learn about the comprehensive supports Northwest University offers its students and schedule a tour today!
