The first round of midterms is upon us, bringing a slew of tests, quizzes, lab reports, projects, and essays, all due at once. A few quick steps can help you get ready to ace all those assignments, and keep you on top of your work all semester long!
1. Make a homework calendar
First things first – dig out those syllabi or locate them on Blackboard, and pencil in all of your due dates on a calendar dedicated specifically to schoolwork. This way, everything from reading assignments to exams to problem sets will all be in one place. This is hands-down the best way to keep assignments from sneaking up on you.
2. Create folders for all of your classes – physically and electronically!
It’s a lot harder to work efficiently when you spend the first 15 minutes of your study time searching for the rubric. Head to Rite Aid and pick up some folders to categorize all those papers and handouts you have floating around. Then, make a folder for each class on your desktop. Any time you download a reading or an assignment description, save it to that class folder for easy access in the future.
3. Scope out new study spaces
Some people swear by the third floor of Hunt, while others find the silence oppressing. Test out a few spaces you haven’t tried before, whether it’s your bed, somewhere in Gates, or a bench outside Baker. Figure out where you can concentrate best, even if it’s someplace unexpected, and make it your designated study spot for the rest of the semester.
4. Make some categorized To Do lists
A lot of people don’t find To Do lists helpful, but sometimes that’s just because piling all of your tasks onto one page can be overwhelming. Try making three separate ones – one with your goals for the night, one with your tasks for the week, and one with things to accomplish by the end of the month. It can be hard to remember to cross things off at first, but lists are the only foolproof way to ensure nothing slips through the cracks.
5. Perfect your study playlist
It’s easy to feel down after hours spent studying, so use music to help boost your mood and productivity. Whether it’s classical music to play in the background while you read or Top 40 to pump you up during study breaks, find some songs that motivate you. Solo dance parties in your room between chapters can also increase your heart rate to keep you alert for longer!