Time-management tips

August 7, 2024 Michael Lear-Olimpi Mayo Clinic, Todoist, American Academy of Pediatrics, Noah Lopez, Time management

Here is some advice on setting priorities, multitasking and succeeding -– just in time for the middle of the term

Smiling young man with curly dark hair and wire glasses, wearing a black and gray striped scarf.

By Noah Lopez

Knightly News Reporter

noah.lopez@mymail.centralpenn.edu

Time management is a crucial skill for college students. Balancing classes, assignments, part-time jobs and social activities can be tough.

Below are some simple tips to help you manage your time better.

Using online or print calendar, such as organizer or planner books, helps people manage their time and tasks they must accomplish. Photo by Michael Lear-Olimpi

Create a schedule

One of the best ways to manage your time is to create a schedule. Use a planner or digital calendar to plan your day.

Include class times, study sessions, work hours, and entertainment or leisure activities.

“Having a visual representation of your day helps you stay organized and ensures you allocate time for all your tasks,” the website of the Mayo Clinic, says.

Prioritize tasks

Not all tasks are equally important.

You can prioritize your assignments and activities based on their deadlines and importance.

“Tackling high-priority tasks first ensures that you complete the most critical work on time,” the American Academy of Pediatrics advises.

This approach helps you avoid last-minute stress.

Break down large projects

Large projects can be intimidating.

Break them down into smaller, manageable tasks.

For example, if you have a research paper due in a month, divide it into steps like choosing a topic, conducting research, creating an outline and writing the draft.

“Breaking down big tasks makes them less overwhelming and more achievable,” Fuschia M. Sirois, a psychology professor at Durham University, says on a Durham website.

Avoid procrastination

Procrastination is a common problem among college students.

Woman with longish hair sitting at a desk with a desktop computer and looking at an Outlook calendar on the monitor. — Studying in a quiet place, such as a library, can help people focus on their work. Confining work to a single device, such as a laptop computer, and silencing smartphones, can help students and other people keep their attention on their work, and make the best us of their time. Photo by Michael Lear-Olimpi

To avoid avoiding what you know you must do:

Set specific goals for each study session.
Write out all the things that you strive to accomplish.
Stick to the plan.

“Setting small, attainable goals keeps you motivated and reduces the temptation to put things off,” Julia Jurgensen, a bariatric nurse practitioner from the Mayo Clinic, advises in an article on the organization’s website.

Also, studying in a quiet place and turning off your phone or social media notifications can help reduce distractions.

Use time blocks

Time blocking is a useful technique for managing your day, separating it into chunks.

Assign specific time blocks for different activities.

For instance, dedicate the morning to attending classes, the afternoon to studying and the evening to relaxation or socializing.

“Time blocking helps you stay focused on one task at a time and increases productivity,” according to a well known time-management coach and content creator.

Take breaks

Working nonstop can lead to some serious burnout.

Scheduling regular breaks can help recharge your mind and body.

“Short breaks during study sessions can improve concentration and overall performance,” the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences advises on its website.

Use these breaks to stretch, take a walk or have a wholesome snack.

Stay organized

Keeping your study space and materials organized can save you time and reduce stress.

“A clutter-free environment helps you concentrate better and find what you need quickly,” Trello, a management and workforce-efficiency software company, advises on its website.

Use folders, binders and digital tools to keep your notes and assignments in order. This will allow you to home in on the task at hand, eliminating clutter that might be a hindrance to your work and to your success.

Learn to say no

It’s important to recognize your limits.

Sometimes, you need to say no to additional commitments to avoid overloading yourself.

“Learning to say no is crucial for maintaining a balanced schedule and preventing burnout,” the task-management and to-do-list app company Todoist’s website advises.

Focus your priorities and don’t feel guilty about turning down extra tasks or social invitations.

Use technology wisely

Technology can be a double-edged sword. It can be beneficial but detrimental if not used properly.

Use apps and tools that help you stay organized and manage your time effectively.

Apps like Todoist, Google Calendar and Trello can help you track tasks and deadlines.

“Technology, when used wisely, can be a great aid in managing time and staying on top of your responsibilities,” Todoist says.

Seek help when needed

If you are struggling with time management, don’t hesitate to seek help.

Many colleges offer resources such as academic advising, tutoring centers and counseling services that help you enhance skills.

“Reaching out for help shows strength and can provide you with valuable strategies to improve your time management skills,” Dr. Robert P. Benzo, of the Mayo Clinic, says on the hospital’s website.

In the end, you can reflect on your time-management practices and adjust them as you see fit.

“Evaluating what’s working and what isn’t helps you make necessary changes and improve your efficiency,” the Mayo Clinic says.

Comment or story idea? Contact KnightlyEditors@CentralPenn.Edu.

Edited by media-cub co-adviser and blog editor Professor Michael Lear-Olimpi.

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