As classes begin to ramp up with more assignments and exams, it is extremely important to obtain a strong scheduling system to keep organized for the school year. Using a planner is a simple task that only takes a couple minutes and becomes very much worth it! Everyone is different; therefore, you just need to find the best system that works for you and stick with it. These helpful tips will motivate you to stay organized and save you time!
1. Keep the planner updated
As we go later into the semester, it is sometimes hard to keep the motivation to stay productive. It can be helpful to set aside a specific time and day of the week that allows you to plan out the week ahead. Additionally, immediately after classes, you should be writing down any important assignments and homework that is due. Keeping your planner up to date will help prevent missed assignments and last minute cramming!
2. Fill in semester due dates
At the start of the semester, professors provide a syllabus that often includes important due dates for exams, big assignments and homework. Going through this syllabus and writing down these dates will avoid things from sneaking up on you. Also, this allows you to notice your busiest point in the semester and be able to prepare for it. By keeping track of important deadlines, you will be able to better prepare and not get overwhelmed!
3. Use specific time slots
For certain things such as class times and appointments, they usually hold a specific time slot in your daily schedule. By mapping out the specific time period of the day that is taken up, it allows you to know what time of the day you are busy and what time you have for yourself. Additionally, by setting aside certain time slots to get your daily goals done will prevent procrastination. Lastly, it is not a bad thing to set aside time in the day to just relax or catch up on your favorite show!
4. Make a daily to-do list
In order to get everything you want done in 24 hours, it can be helpful to write it all down in one place to avoid forgetting it. By prioritizing the items on the to-do list from the most important to the least important can assure that the things that NEED to get done, will. As you complete your tasks and assignments, check them off! This can make you feel more accomplished and can show what still needs to be done.
5. Color code your schedule
By using certain colors to represent each class, the planner will appear more clear and organized. Immediately, you will associate that class with that color, allowing you to know what each assignment is for. This also makes planning a light and easy task. You are able to add stickers and drawings that make the process stress-relieving. Additionally, the use of highlighters, bolding and underlining important tasks will draw attention to the most important things so you will not forget.
6. Schedule time for you
As life becomes extremely busy, it is very important to schedule time for yourself to relax and unwind. With stressful exams and assignments, it is important to give yourself a break. By giving yourself a designated freetime, you won’t feel bad for not doing work. Also, a planner will relieve the stress of late work and cramming last minute!
7. Yearly down to daily planning
Once you get your planner, it is helpful to include important events throughout the year such as birthdays, holidays, etc. For college, it is also important to include days such as when the semester ends to the last day of finals. Then you can move onto more specific planning such as by semester which you can include important events occuring throughout the school and more! It is helpful to start this process slowly, then move forward to more specific weekly and daily planning. This will make sure everything you have is included. Obviously, many things can not be planned a year in advance; therefore, you will also plan as you go!