For many, this spring semester is the beginning, middle, or end of your college journey. Regardless of where you might stand, it can be difficult to re-establish a routine. After experiencing a long break, I always find it extra hard to get my brain back into school mode and I know I’m not the only one who can relate to this. I can’t stress enough the importance of setting expectations and goals early in the semester. Finding ones that work for you can contribute greatly to your success. With loads of assignments and studying to do, I know I could not get through the semester without using the tips and tricks I have learned.
One of my favorite techniques that can be used for homework and studying is called the “Pomodoro Technique.” This technique consists of working on a task for 25 minutes with no interruptions followed by a five-minute break. You can continue this cycle as many times as you would like in order to complete your tasks. After four rounds, you can take a longer break if you’d like. I usually do it for about 15 or 20 minutes. I was introduced to Pomodoro in my junior year of high school and have used it ever since. It helps me keep my study-sessions productive and prevents me from getting burnt out, which used to happen often. The five-minute breaks are like refreshing rewards that renew my energy to finish the rest of my tasks. If you search Pomodoro timer, there are multiple websites you can use. My favorite is called Pomofocus because you can set up your 25-minute, short or long breaks, and you can add tasks to a list and check them off as you go. If you find it easier and more convenient, you could also set timers on your phone or watch.
Having a planner is an excellent tool that keeps me organized. I keep track of my assignments, due dates, events and activities. I can prioritize my tasks and set goals for myself. Plus, it’s so satisfying to check off my assignments as I complete them.
Another tip that helps with time management, in the long run, is to knock out assignments early. If I have the time and the resources to complete an assignment that is not due for a while, I will take advantage of that opportunity. In doing so, I’m able to dedicate more time to other bigger time-consuming assignments that may appear later that week or even that month.
Reducing stress and anxiety is key to having a successful semester as well. It can be hard to not feel overwhelmed by the amount of work you have to do in what feels like very little time. One trick that has helped me is not looking at my six-class workload cumulatively. Instead, I look at the work for each class individually. Rather than saying I have 10 assignments due this week, I say I only have two math assignments, three biology assignments and so forth. While this obviously doesn’t change the amount of work, I ultimately have due, it helps my mind calm down a bit and makes my tasks seem less daunting. Adopting tips like this ensures I have a balanced semester.
