The start of a new semester can be extremely overwhelming, but it’s also the perfect time to get ahead before things get too crazy. Something that really helps me stay on track is planning ahead. There’s a lot of methods worth trying, whether you are new to this or you just want to try something different.
- Paper Planner
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If up to this point you have been tracking assignments in your head, this is the first method I would recommend. Almost every store that sells school supplies also sells paper planners. They are nice because everything is laid out already and all you have to do is fill it in. Plus they usually provide a large calendar as well as space to lay out more individualized assignments. Thus you can easily separate your extra-curricular commitments from your homework plans.
- Google Calendar
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Google Calendar is what I use to keep track of my commitments that require me to physically go somewhere. I put my class schedule into Google Calendar as well as clubs and appointments. It’s nice because you can sync calendars with your cell phone and have access on the go. The only downside is that it is not the greatest place to break down homework assignments and get into detailed lists.
- Checklist
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I started making checklists last semester every time I did homework and it helped a lot. If you don’t like to plan too far in the future, but want to make sure you remember to do all your work, it’s definitely a good method. At the beginning of the day I go through every class on Canvas to remind myself of all my current assignments. Then I create a list of everything I can do that day to stay on track and get ahead. As I go through the day I reference the list and get as much done as possible. Whatever I don’t get done I write down at the top of my checklist for the next day. A lot of stores sell really cute checklist templates that would be perfect for this method. This year I even got a journal specifically for checklists and I start a new page everyday. Of course you can use any scrap paper, or even online resources as well.
- Google Docs
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I made up this template last year in a Google Doc and I really enjoy using it.
To create it, I turned the document orientation to horizontal and then added a table. After that, I added dates to the first column and my classes to the first row. Inside of the table I bold words for days that I have assignments due or exams. Otherwise, I leave the text neutral. I also use the paint bucket tool to make boxes dark gray once I complete an assignment. The only annoying part about using this method is I have to manually add and delete rows as time passes. However the process is pretty easy and quick. I prefer to use this type of planning because I am always on my computer when I do homework and I can easily move things around within the table when I don’t get something done. Another thing you could do is make your own weekly template and print it out at the start of every week if you prefer to handwrite your plans.
- Combining Methods
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In the end, I use a combination of methods to stay on track. I use Google Calendar for commitments, Google Docs for assignments, and checklists for breaking down my daily work. Planning ahead helps me because it keeps me accountable and on top of all my assignments. I definitely recommend trying these methods out to have an effective organized semester!