Time management can not be underrated nor overemphasised as a student willing to advance academically because balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and social life with other personal responsibilities is not easy ( no be child’s play). If I may tell you, time management is very important if you want academic success without falling short in another aspect of life. This article will provide tips on effectively maximising your time as a student. During my undergraduate days, many people said, “It’s impossible to combine academics with another aspect of life,” to which I told a capital NO.
Prioritise Tasks
Firstly, one of the things that has helped me manage my time efficiently during my days as an undergraduate, just like you, is prioritising tasks based on their urgency and importance. Remember the scale of preference we were taught in economics during secondary school? Another thing that has helped me was The Eisenhower Matrix, named after President Dwight D. Eisenhower, which enables you to categorise tasks into four quadrants:
- Urgent and Important: Tasks that need immediate attention, such as upcoming deadlines or exams.
- Necessary but Not Urgent: Tasks that are important for long-term goals but don’t require immediate action, like studying for future exams.
- Urgent but Not Important: Tasks that require immediate attention but don’t contribute significantly to your long-term goals, such as responding to non-critical emails.
- Not Urgent and Not Important: Tasks that have little to no impact on your goals, like mindlessly scrolling through social media.
Focusing on tasks in the “Important but Not Urgent” quadrant can reduce the pressure of last-minute cramming and avoid burnout. I hope this helps.
Create a Detailed Weekly Schedule
A well-organized schedule is your best friend when managing time effectively. Start by creating a weekly right from Sunday. You can plan how your week will go and the classes and seminars you will not attend. Also, in your weekly plan, dont forget your personal development because, as a student willing to go a very long way both academically and in another sphere, Personal development is essential. Also, digital tools like Google Calendar or scheduling apps can help you stay organised and receive reminders for upcoming events. Review and adjust your schedule regularly to accommodate changes and avoid overcommitting yourself. Below is a weekly schedule planner you can follow if you don’t have any before.
- Class and Study Time: Block time for classes, study sessions, and assignments.
- Extracurricular Activities: Include time for clubs, sports, or hobbies.
- Personal Time: Set aside time for self-care, relaxation, and socialising.
Don’t forget to thank me later if this works out for you.
Implement the Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro Technique is a well-known time management system that divides work into short, focused bursts. This method helps increase productivity and concentration. By preventing burnout and encouraging focus, the Pomodoro Technique enables you to stay productive and avoid distractions. For instance, When you know you have a specific amount of time to work, you’re more likely to stay accountable and motivated, and this timer serves as a constant reminder for you to stay focused. Using the Pomodoro Technique makes you more aware of how you spend your time, which can help you identify time-wasting habits and improve your efficiency. The Pomodoro Technique promotes consistent productivity by breaking tasks into smaller, manageable parts. This can make large projects seem more manageable and help you make steady progress.
Set SMART Goals
Setting SMART goals is a powerful way to stay motivated and organised. When I say intelligent goals, I mean the goals you can achieve within a particular period. Your smart goals may be either long-term or short-term. Just make sure they are smart ones you can fulfil. You’ve been wondering what long-term and short-term goals are. No panic, my fams. A long-term goal can take you more than a year to achieve, while a short-term goal can be achieved between weeks, days, and months. I hope this is clear.
Now, let me give you an analogy for what I mean by smart:
- Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve.
- Measurable: Determine how you will measure progress and success.
- Achievable: Set realistic goals that are attainable within your capabilities.
- Relevant: Ensure your goals align with your long-term objectives.
- Time-bound: Set a deadline for achieving your goals.
Avoid Multitasking
Multitasking refers to the ability to perform multiple tasks or activities simultaneously. It’s a common practice in modern life, especially with the increase in technology and digital devices. While multitasking might seem like a way to get more done quickly, it often leads to decreased productivity and lower-quality work. I advise you to create a plan earlier, stick to the plan and focus on one task at a time to ensure better results and greater efficiency. If you’re studying, avoid distractions like checking your phone or social media. Instead, dedicate your full attention to the task at hand.
Develop a Consistent Routine
A consistent daily routine can help you stay organised and manage your time more effectively. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule by waking up and going to bed simultaneously each day. Also, set specific times for studying, attending classes, and participating in other activities. A consistent routine can help you avoid decision fatigue and focus on your responsibilities.
Learn to Say No
As a student, you must recognise your limits and avoid overdoing. While engaging in extracurricular activities and social events is important, be mindful of your time and energy. Learn to avoid additional commitments that affect or interfere with your academic goals. Prioritize your well-being and focus on what matters most.
Recommended App for Time Management.
You can use several time management apps to manage your time effectively without regret. I recommend that you try out these apps.
- Trello: For organising tasks and projects with boards and cards.
- Todoist: This is used to create to-do lists and set deadlines.
- Forest: For staying focused and reducing phone distractions.
Maximizing your time as a student requires effective planning, prioritisation, and self-discipline. These steps will enhance your productivity, reduce stress, and achieve a balanced and fulfilling student life. Remember, time management is a skill that takes practice, so be patient with yourself and stay committed to making positive changes.
