Summer is just a distant memory and the fall semester is now in full swing, which means you can’t add any more pics to your “Summer 2k19” photo album. Your laundry bag is filling up because you can’t be bothered to do it. And you haven’t had any time to catch up on your Netflix shows. I admit I have only watched the first four episodes of the new (and last) season of Jane the Virgin. The fall grind is real!
Speaking of Jane, something that she really likes to do is make lists. Some people may think that making lists is tedious or unnecessary, but they can actually be invaluable to college students. That being said, here is a list of things that you can do to maximize your time, keep yourself from freaking out over deadlines, and stay focused.
1. To-Do Lists
Old fashioned and simple, but crucial when you just don’t know where to start. Write down every assignment, chore, or event you have within your time frame of choice—I suggest going either by day or by week—with your priorities first and the less important things last. I tape my to-do list to my wall in front of my desk, but you can put it anywhere that’s easily accessible. I can’t explain the pure satisfaction of crossing out each finished task until there aren’t any left. There’s something about seeing those daunting words become nothing but smudges of ink…
2. Google calendar
You may already use a calendar, but do you use it in the most efficient way? Google calendar allows you to block out your entire schedule by the minute, and the white space between each event really helps you visualize how much time you have. Color code these boxes by class, priority, or type of task. I personally group tests, essays, and important due dates together, as well as courses, extracurriculars, leisure plans, and other events. Set reminders to notify you from minutes, hours, days, or even weeks before the start of the event. You’ll never miss a deadline again!
3. Turn off your phone
You know the off-button on your phone? Press it. If you’re worried about emergencies, at least physically separate yourself from your phone and let your friends know not to hit you up unless it’s absolutely essential that you hear from them. Leaving your phone right beside your homework will distract you. You’ll get one “important” notification—which most of the time isn’t that important, let’s be real—and then you’ll get distracted from your work. Out of sight, out of mind.
4. Take breaks
Studying can be tedious, and your brain can sometimes feel like it’s been put in a fryer after several hours. A really good way to prevent this and keep your stress levels in check is to set time intervals for yourself. Try 55 minutes of work with a 5 minute break. You can set alarms on your phone to do this, but remember to keep it out of sight! During that 5 minutes, stretch, get a snack, do some meditation, or even take a quick nap.
5. Set reasonable goals and use your resources
Your to-do list and your calendar should give you an idea of what you can get done today and what you can’t. If you have a whole week complete a long assignment, try doing a little bit each day instead of staying up all night in the library the night before. If you absolutely have no way of completing an assignment before the deadline, go to office hours or email your professor about it. Most of the time, professors are understanding and accommodating. Explain your situation and ask them for an extension; the worst they can say is no. If you’re hesitant to do so because of this, you don’t know until you try, so just ask! Be sure not to take advantage of this kindness, though, and don’t depend on it every single time.