It’s Week 4 here at UC Davis, and even though it’s early in the term, it can be easy to procrastinate and fall behind. If you find that your reading and homework has already piled up, here’s what you can do to help yourself.
List everything you need to do.
Not only will this give you a physical indication of how much work you have, but it also has a way of making the work seem more manageable. Having a list will help you keep track of all the work, so none of your assignments fall through the cracks.
Start with the necessary items.
Got a physics problem set due tonight at 6 p.m.? Do that first. Don’t start your English paper until after the other assignment is complete. Prioritizing assignments based on their due dates and the amount of time it takes to finish them will help you figure out what to do.
Don’t try to multitask.
Just work through each assignment as you get to it. Trying to switch off between statistics homework and reading for a history class will only confuse your brain and cause you to lose focus. It’s more effective to direct your energy into one task at a time!
Tell yourself you can do it.
Staying positive is key. I know that once I start doubting myself, I get anxious and can’t do any of my work very well. Believe that you will get through this mountain of work, and you’ll surprise yourself with what you’re capable of accomplishing.
Resist the urge to complain.
I love a good vent session as much as anyone else, but whining to your housemates and friends about how much work you have is just wasting time. You need to put aside your feelings for a few hours and get this done!
Just do it.
Working hard takes a lot of effort, but once you finish everything you needed to do, you’ll be so glad you did it. Getting back on top of your work will help decrease your stress and make you feel prepared for the rest of the quarter!
The quarter system can be killer, but you still have time to get back on track with your work!