7 Effective Time Management Tips for College Students

By Lorraine McKinney

High school really didn’t do enough to prepare you for the hectic schedule of college. Between trying to adjust to new surroundings, classes, homework, exams, jobs, family, socializing, etc., it is no wonder that so many college students experience burnout. The trick is to learn how to manage your time effectively so you can get everything done, enjoy a full life, and not feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day for everything. Get the most out of your college experience by using these seven effective time management tips.

 

1. Set Up a Life Schedule
   Most of us have class schedules, work schedules, etc. But, do you have a life schedule? There is a lot more going on in your life than just classes and homework. You need to have a life too. But, you need to find time for everything, and still be able to get plenty of rest. Choose the organizing tool that is best for you, and use it to plan everything you do in your daily life.
2. Get Lots of Exercise

Exercise is good for more than just keeping your body in shape. It is also important for a healthy mind. Exercising can help you to focus better, and it helps to clear your mind of the unimportant things. If you don’t already exercise much, start out slowly and build up as you go to avoid pain that will keep you in bed instead of in class.

3. Create Weekly Priority Lists

At the beginning of each week, create a list of everything that you need to do that week. Write down the chapters you need to read, projects that need to get done, time you need in the library, study time, etc. This is going to go a long way in effectively managing your time, and make sure that all of the important things get done when they are supposed to be done.

4. Get a Watch 

This may seem like an obvious thing, but a lot of people rely on their handheld devices these days, and don’t always wear watches. But, what happens if you lose your device, or the battery dies? Make sure you have invested in a high quality watch, so you don’t end up being late for classes, appointments, etc.

5. Ask for Help

We can’t always do everything all the time, and we all need help once in a while. Don’t be afraid to ask family members, friends, etc. for help. For instance, if you have a big exam to study for, but you have other tasks to do as well, ask for help with the other tasks so you can spend more time preparing for the exam.

6. Say “No” Once in a While

Sometimes, you may find that you are stretched way too thin, because you just can’t say no to anyone. It’s time to start saying it, and you shouldn’t feel bad about it. Let people know why you are refusing to do something, and find ways to compromise instead. For instance, if your friends want to go out but you have to study, tell them you’ll hook up with them another time.

7. Be Realistic about Study Time 

Don’t think that you can get your studying done in record time. It takes a lot of time to study properly, so you need to be realistic when setting study schedules. If you think a project is going to take four hours, set aside six hours for it. Give yourself plenty of time to be sure that you have a good grasp of what you are studying, and that you complete all projects on time.

 

Lorraine McKinney is an academic tutor and elearning specialist.