If you know a certain assignment will take longer, even if it is not due first, budget time for it when you are creating your schedule. For example, a paper may be due later than a worksheet, but it will likely also take longer, and so should be started sooner. [1] X Expert Source Alexander Ruiz, M. Ed. Academic Tutor Expert Interview. 18 June 2020.
Try setting aside consistent times for certain subjects every day. For example, if you know you will have time in the afternoon, set aside a block from 2pm to 4pm to work on your homework. If you need to work on multiple subjects over the holidays, alternate your study time from day to day. You may want to work on your history homework on Mondays and Wednesdays, and your maths work on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Use a personal planner or calendar to mark down your study times, and write what assignments you want to work on for each day.
Studying distracted can actually make it more difficult to learn and retain information. When you designate no-study time, it’s important to stick to it so that you don’t miss vital steps or information in your school work.
If you are traveling and you forget something, it may be difficult or expensive to get a replacement on the go. To avoid missing anything, look at each assignment before you leave and make a checklist of what materials you need to complete that assignment. Go through the checklist and make sure you have packed everything you need to take with you before you leave school.
If you carry a phone or tablet with you regularly, set reminders on your digital calendar so that you get instant notifications. If you use a planner, write reminders down there as well, so that you know what you expect to do and when you expect to do it.
Clear your study space of all distractions. If you work at a desk, for example, make sure that only your computer, your notebook, your school books, and materials relevant to your studies are set up. Make the space more comfortable by providing yourself with comfortable seating, good lighting, and accoutrements such a blanket that may help you feel more relaxed in your space.
Apps like Freedom and LeechBlock allow users to temporarily block certain sites or set whole blocks of time where the internet is inaccessible. Tools such as FocusWriter and Focus Booster are designed to help you track your time to accomplish specific tasks.
Taking occasional breaks has been found to improve attention and potentially make your overall studying more effective. [7] X Research source Even if you are focused on an assignment, try to include breaks to keep from overworking yourself.
Do try to avoid packing schoolwork into times that won’t properly allow you to focus, such as on a tour or during a family get-together. Save the school work for designated study time or your leisure time. Make sure your environment is compatible for the work you need to do. For example, avoid bringing your computer or scientific calculator to a beach setting, which could damage such equipment.
If possible, save any editing for a time when you are not on a trip or dealing with family visits. Find a low-stress point in your holiday where you can go over the work you’ve done thus far. See if any of your peers would be interested in exchanging assignments and peer editing. Arrange it with a friend before you leave school, and set exchange deadlines for the two of you.
