Some students are able to get higher scores and achieve success, while others struggle and complain about their circumstances. But what is the exact issue? All students have the same 24 hours in a day, yet some are able to manage their time effectively and utilize it productively to get higher scores in their studies, while others cannot.
Managing time involves allocating the right amount of time to the right activities and completing important tasks effectively. When allocating time, students are supposed to take control of the time they have and optimize it for focus, productivity, and a balance between school and life.
So how can students manage and allocate their time effectively to increase productivity? Here are some tips:
1. Set a goal and break it into small actionable tasks
To effectively manage their time, students should start by setting goals and breaking them down into smaller, actionable tasks. Defining a purpose can help students stay focused on their studies, projects, activities, and work. When setting goals, it’s important to make them specific, measurable, realistic, and time-bound.
The next step is to break down goals into daily tasks that are easy to accomplish. When tasks feel overwhelming, students may procrastinate. By taking small steps, students can build momentum and complete tasks more easily. For example, if a student needs to write a 1000-word essay, they can break it down into tasks like visiting the library, conducting research, and writing 100 words per day.
2. Make a to-do list and prioritize tasks
Another effective strategy is to create a to-do list and prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. Students can use the four-quadrant method to prioritize tasks. In the first quadrant, they can list urgent and important tasks, such as preparing for a project with a looming deadline. In the second quadrant, they can list important but not urgent tasks, such as exercise.
The third quadrant can include tasks that are urgent but not important, like getting groceries from the market. Students can delegate these tasks to save time. Finally, in the fourth quadrant, students can list tasks that are neither important nor urgent and can be avoided, such as watching movies.
3. Scheduling work Â
While a to-do list helps students plan what they need to do, a schedule helps them plan when they will perform those tasks. Students can create timetables that allocate every minute of the day according to their tasks. It’s important to set aside time for the most important projects and tasks, and to make the schedule realistic by including breaks, meals, exercise, family and friend time. This approach keeps students happy and motivated. They can make schedules on paper or use apps like Google Calendar.
Also Read: 5 Ways Data Analytics Is Enhancing Education Technology in Schools
4. Avoid procrastinationÂ
Procrastination is one of the main reasons for failed time management, which occurs when students unnecessarily postpone school tasks. It has a negative impact on their time management, academic performance, emotional well-being, as well as mental and physical health.
To stop procrastinating, students should focus on a goal and take small and easy steps. They should also set targets and deadlines for tasks. Eliminating and reducing distractions such as social media, games, and movies helps to reduce procrastination. Saying no to unnecessary work and choosing important work also helps. These actions make students more productive and confident.
Read More:Quick Guide to Time Management for Students
5. Track energies and spent time
Throughout the day, our energy levels fluctuate, and researchers have identified an internal clock in our brain that regulates alertness and sleepiness. It is essential to track our energy levels as they affect our productivity and efficiency in completing tasks. Students can analyze their energy levels and prioritize the most important projects or topics when they are most alert.
6. Take a break at right time
One of the most effective ways to maintain productivity is to take regular breaks. After approximately 90 minutes of continuous work, it is advisable to take a break. Students should step away from their work and, if possible, spend time outdoors. They can also give their eyes a break from the screen and engage in activities like reading or taking short naps or meditating. Refueling with protein-rich foods during breaks can also help.
7. Be aware of planning fallacy
Although scheduling tasks seems easy, estimating the time required for each task is often challenging. Over-optimism about completing tasks within a specific timeframe can lead to poor time management and increased stress levels when tasks take longer than anticipated. To overcome this planning fallacy, students should assess their familiarity with the tasks. If they have previous experience, they should allocate 1-1.5X time than estimated, and if not, double or more.
Managing school, projects, homework, tuition, social life, and extracurricular activities can be overwhelming for students. However, incorporating the above strategies can help alleviate stress, improve focus and productivity, and enhance their academic, personal, and social lives.
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