Managing your Study Schedule
You are now working to a schedule that works for you. Well done! It’s time to get more out of the time you have assigned to tasks by using it wisely. Let’s discuss few simple tips that you can follow to study better and get the results you desire.
- Identify resources to help you
You don’t need to ‘re invent the wheel’, so to speak. Use outside resources to save you time and energy in solving problems. Is there an expert friend? Have you tried a keyword search on the Internet to get better explanations for the topic you are struggling with? Is there reference material in the library that you can get? These will give you a better and more wholesome perspective of the subject/task.
- Use your free time wisely
Think of times when you can study / recall “bits” when walking, travelling on the bus, or waiting in a queue. These are good times for reviewing and rereading lessons. The important thing is to put your time to good use. Times like this are different from the free time, when you relax and enjoy other energising activities. Use the ‘in-between time’ fruitfully.
- Review notes and readings just before and after class
Make time to review class notes. It will help you identify grey areas and clarify them in class or from others. It helps to be prepared. Regular reviews will keep you ready to take on tests without anxiety.
It’s a good idea to review lecture material immediately after class. The first 24 hours are critical. Research shows that forgetting is greatest within 24 hours without review!
Effective aids:
- Create a simple “To Do” list
This simple activity will help you identify everything you need to do. You will be able to prioritise tasks as per their importance and draft a timeline to get things done. Review this list and make adjustments to ensure you achieve everything you set out to do.
- Daily/weekly Planner
Write down classes, assignments, lectures, research, meetings in a book or chart. You can also sketch out your schedule. Every morning, check what’s ahead and every night check your schedule for the following day. Being prepared will help you do well and boost your confidence. The act of writing down your goals and scheduling your tasks is a good start.
- Long term Planner
Use a calendar sheet or a monthly chart so that you can plan ahead. A Long term planner will also serve as a reminder to constructively plan time for yourself. Looking at your planner is like visualizing. You are looking at and reminding yourself of what you want to achieve. This will in turn help you stay focused and take steps to attain your goals.
Parts 1 & 2 of time Management together suggest simple strategies you can easily implement to reap huge benefits.
All of us have the same 24 hours, but what we achieve is staggeringly different. Develop and use time management skills to realise and achieve your dreams. Good luck!