Practicing good time management can help you to study effectively. However, like most skills, it takes focus and concerted effort for new habits to form.
Here are 7 time management tips to help you get the most out of your studies:
1. Use a calendar
A calendar is a great way to plan your day. It is an easy way to schedule your a classes, lessons, trainings and remember your obligations by setting alarms and reminders. It can also help you to study in blocks and devote time to different subjects. Set up a calendar on your device and ensure you stick to it. Factor in extra time in case an activity takes longer than expected.
2. Use a checklist
A checklist is a great way to ensure you stay on task, by listing your tasks and checking them off one by one once completed. It also gives you a sense of accomplishment to tick off tasks when completed. This could be a digital checklist utilising tools like Notes or Stickies, or a written list in a diary. Keep it visible and revisit it often.
3. Get organised
Once you have your calendar and checklist set up, you should be well on your way to being better organised. Being organised will save you a lot of time and allow you to allocate and manage your time better. Setting up simple systems, such as document filing can also be beneficial. Put sometime aside to do this with your Google Drive and take time to name documents effectively as you create them.
4. Eliminate distractions
Get rid of anything that distracts you and allows you to procrastinate from your work. While you are studying, turn off notifications on the device you are using and put other devices aside where you won’t be tempted to check social media and messages. Allow yourself to check your device only once per hour - as a reward for focused study.
5. Be focused at the task at hand
Have you ever been so focused and devoted to what you are doing that time seems to have flown by? This mental state is called ‘flow’ – when you are completely immersed and involved in an activity. Flow actually makes you feel energised and motivated and increases enjoyment of the activity (not to mention being super-productive). To achieve flow, eliminate distractions, set aside enough time, set clear goals and focus completely on the task at hand.
6. Schedule rewards
You need to treat yourself when you do the right thing. Take a few minutes out of every hour to take a break. This will also allow your brain to relax and be more productive when you return. However, whatever you do, make sure you you limit your break time to a few minutes.
7. Get a good night’s sleep
A good night’s sleep is essential to make sure your body and mind is rested and fresh for the next day. It can be hard to concentrate if you didn’t get 8 to 10 hours of sleep in the night before - which is the amount of sleep that is recommended for teenagers by the National Sleep Foundation.
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