Use a Planner
One tip that current college students highly recommend is to use a planner, such as Google Calendar (It’s FREE!). It is important to add your class schedule to your planner as soon as you receive it. Take a few moments each day to review your to-do list and plan accordingly. Everyone procrastinates, so try to find motivation to work on your tasks or study by setting small goals or going to a study space.
Set Priorities & Deadlines
While spending time with friends is important, it is as important to understand the costs of your decisions and weigh them against your priorities. For example, is watching a movie with friends more important than studying for an upcoming chemistry test? Do you want to study for an exam that is in two weeks or work on your essay that is due in two days? It is ultimately up to you to make your choices because no one will be there to guide you. Make a list of your priorities and work from there. Once you have completed all your tasks, then you can schedule free time to hang out with your friends.
Track Your Time
What might work for your roommate or your friends might not work for you and that is okay. Don’t give up and keep trying different strategies. If you are completely new to managing time because you’ve always gone with the flow, first begin tracking how much time you spend on everything you do, whether it’s sleeping, scrolling on TikTok, or studying for an exam. What many students tend to do is to overestimate themselves when doing specific tasks requiring their focus and underestimating the time spent on leisure activities. If that is you, focus on your priorities and plan for more time doing them by decreasing the time spent on leisure.
Plan Around Who You Are
Apart from managing your time, it is also essential to establish a schedule that works for you. Consider whether you are a morning person or a night owl. Do you like to wake up early or sleep in? If you doze off in early morning classes, consider scheduling your classes later in the day. Determine if you need breaks in between classes or if you prefer to take all your classes in the morning or evening. By knowing yourself and your preferences, you can plan your classes and study time accordingly to maximize your potential.
FAQ
Here’s are commonly asked questions about time management in college:
How much time should I allocate for studying each day/week?
The amount of study time varies between individuals and depends on the course load. However, a common recommendation is two hours of study time for every credit hour (ie, 4 credit class = 8 hours of studying).
My roommate often distracts me while I'm studying. How can I stay focused?
If you find your roommate's actions distracting, the first step should be to communicate this to them. Read are article, Tips For Roommate Conflict Resolution, to learn more in depth.
What are some ways to effectively manage my time during exam periods?
During exam periods, it's especially important to have a clear study schedule, prioritizing the subjects or topics you find most challenging. Regular breaks can help prevent burnout, and techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique can help keep you focused and productive. Also, remember to allow time for relaxation and sleep to keep your mind fresh.
Final Thoughts
For those just getting started, time management may be a struggle, but once you master it, success will not be far behind. Managing your time effectively will allow you to have more free time set aside. Remember, the key to success isn't just studying hard, it's also taking time to have fun and relax! So don't forget to treat yourself to a nice dinner or a movie night with friends!
