It can be difficult to do it all as a student. Work, family, friends, and classes all compete for your time.
There will be many times when something will just have to give. So how will you identify your priorities? And how can you squeeze in as much as possible? Time management.
Time Management – What is it?
Time management is simply identifying what needs to be done along with how We spend our time and re-organizing our to do list. Here are a few strategies to help you take control of your time.
Time Management Strategies
To begin to manage your time as a student, there are a few time management strategies that will set you up for success from the beginning of your college career.
Perform a Time Assessment
Using an hourly calendar, identify and write down every task or event in your week, including everyday activities like watching TV, buying groceries, time on social media, or picking the kids up from school (if you are a parent or caretaker). With colored markers or pencils highlight activities that can NOT be moved or eliminated in red. Use a yellow highlight for items that could possibly be moved or taken on by another person. Lastly use the color green to highlight those items that can simply go away.
Reasonable Courseload
Knowing how much available time you have during the week will allow for a reasonable schedule of courses. Typically a three credit course taking over an eight week period will require approximately 10 to 17 hours per week. Schedule accordingly.
Support Systems
Let your friends and family know about your goals and ask them for help with every day tasks that will save you time. For example, helping with cooking, cleaning, shopping or just running errands could save you a lot of time. You may find that these individuals enjoy lending you a hand all while they help hold you accountable. There is a support system close by that may be overlooked in many cases. Your classmates, who can serve as study partners, or your professors, who can help you with questions or obstacles you may face. If you’re not comfortable asking for help, simply ask them for suggestions or recommendations on how to manage your time.
Technology
Whether you use a time management app, a calendar with alerts for deadlines, an app to limit your time on social media, online tools for formatting references, or digital folders for keeping your business, personal and school activities separate, technology can save you time, so use it to your advantage.
-RG