Time Management
Why Time Management Matters
As a busy college student, there are many things competing for your attention. It’s easy to get overwhelmed or to let things fall through the cracks.
Here are some tips and tools to help you make the most out of your time:
Time Management Tips
- It’s a life skill, not just a college skill to know how to manage your time well. This is the big picture of time management to keep in mind.
- A plan is essential for time management that allows you to fit everything into your college experience and make the most of your time.
- Find the right kind of plan for you. This is an important step in managing your time well because a time management plan will not look the same for every college student. You might purchase a paper planner at the bookstore, or a whiteboard calendar to hang over your desk in your dorm room, or use an online planner/calendar app.
- Keep your plan accessible. This is the one thing every time management plan must-have. Your time management plan should go with you everywhere: to class, to the library, to your dorm, to work, and to study times.
Time Management Tools
College students who accomplish the most in their semester have a time management plan that includes the following tools:
A Semester Schedule
This is the “what you have to do” plan. Before the first day of class take each syllabus for every class and record all assignments, quizzes, and tests on your calendar/planner. If your class does not have a set syllabus, be sure to write down assignments as they are given.
Use the Semester Schedule as the basis to create your Weekly Schedule.
A Weekly Schedule
This is the “where you have to be” plan. Use the Semester Schedule to create a Weekly Schedule. You have exactly 168 hours each week. By scheduling blocks of time for classes, meals, sleep (yes, sleep) exercise, work, and studying, you will discover you have more free time for things you enjoy doing.
Try to have a study block each day and make sure you keep this important appointment.
A Daily To-Do List
Every day you need to establish a sense of purpose. Take the time the night before or first thing in the morning to create a list of 5 things you must accomplish that day. The Daily To-Do List will not only make you more successful, this habit will increase your motivation. Check items off your list as you complete them, revising it to de-clutter as needed.
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Success Studies faculty members are here to help!