Time management is the act of managing your time in the most efficient and useful way possible. It is important to plan out your schedule to complete tasks that need to be done by a certain time. Being able to manage your time effectively can help you become successful in both college and the workforce.
There are 4 D's to consider in time management:
Category | Action |
Do | Work on tasks that take a few minutes. These small tasks can accomplish goals set forth towards completing the larger task. |
Defer (Delay) | Pause a task that can wait to accomplish other tasks. Be sure to schedule these tasks at a later time. |
Delegate | Tasks that can be given to others to evenly distribute the work. |
Delete (Drop) | Eliminate unnecessary tasks. |
Use the resources on this page to find time management strategies that work for you.
Use a calendar (can be done on a Smart phone as well) to track when assignments are due. Canvas has a calendar built into their software, which you can view and see when assignments are due. Check out this Canvas tutorial to learn more about using the Canvas calendar You can even add your own content!
How do I use the Calendar as a student?
Creating a routine with your studies makes it easier to stay on track. These apps can help you create a plan that you can keep track of:
Staying on track requires you to recognize what keeps you from completing work. Try changing your environment, putting devices away, or closing doors to reduce sound. The MVC library offers study spaces that you can use if needed.
When you get stuck on tasks, it is advised to ask your teachers for help. It is easy to lose track of your tasks when you do not understand an assignment or readings.
Creating a tiered list of what is the most important task to complete to the least important task can help you keep track and focus on what is most important. It is also easier to focus on tasks as you have your plan laid out on paper. You can easily concentrate on the most important assignments and complete those as quickly as possible.
Goal setting is an important strategy when managing your time. Having a goal will help you feel motivated to work quickly and effectively. Follow the SMART method in setting goals:
S - Specific
M - Measurable
A - Achievable
R - Relevant
T - Time-bound
It is easy to focus much of your time on tasks, but you do not want to work so hard that you start to feel the effects of burnout. Be sure to take breaks in order to reset yourself. Read a book, play a game, or do what you need to do to unwind. A good tip is to schedule breaktime if you are a plan ahead kind of person. Check out these fun websites to help you unwind:
10 Minute Mindfulness Meditation - A video by Calm that can help you focus and center yourself.
10 Activities To Do When You Need a Study Break
Mindfulness Project - Guided meditations are available on this website.
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