Getting started
2. What works for you?
Remember, this is your plan. What works for you?
Identify your weaknesses and target these:
Always run out of time? Try backwards planning for your assignments. Working out how much time you need for each task, and work backwards to see when you need to start each task, and when you need to move on to the next one. Try using this Assignment Calculator to get you started.
Are you a procrastinator? Try the ‘one small thing’ approach. Often we procrastinate because the entire task seems too big. Break it down into elements and ask yourself to just do one small thing, then another small thing, then another...
Just don’t like the unit/task? Bribe yourself. Use the 25/5 method. Work for 25 minutes before taking 5 minutes to do yoga, make a cuppa, have a walk outside...
Does it take you too long to complete your reading? Look into reading strategies that encourage you to read broadly instead of deeply.
Do you find your hard work doesn’t pay off on assignments? Focus on task sheets so that you are completing exactly what your lecturer has set. Check your understanding of tasks.
What has worked for you in the past?
Morning person? Get your writing done first thing and schedule non-thinking activities in the afternoon. Night owl? Do the opposite.
When are you most productive and in what situations? Try to replicate these conditions for your planned study time.
Finally, you might find some useful tips in the video below.
Watch this TED talk: How to manage your time more effectively (according to machines)