Welcome to AUG November Highlightz!

Never-ending tests, slipping deadlines, a to-do list that gets longer each day – these experiences are all too common in the life of a student. As time is a finite resource, we only have 24-hours a day to balance our responsibilities at school and home. Therefore, choose a right approach that works for you so that you can have your own moments while doing your best in your studies.

Check out our top 5 Time Management tips for students.

1. PLAN AHEAD BY MAKING TO-DO LIST

Create a to-do list using a calendar illuminates both open and busy time. With such list within the reach of your hand, it helps in clearing foggy memories. Furthermore, crossing off tasks creates a sense of accomplishment.

2. “SMART” GOAL 
Setting goals with the SMART metrics serves as a guidance in task that has to be completed daily. Meanwhile, it motivates and pushes you further to go beyond in order to achieve your targets.

3. REDUCE DISTRACTION & AVOID PROCRASTINATION 
Distraction and procrastination are undoubtedly the ultimate stumbling blocks. To cope, think of the best environment or method which you can stay focused and find enjoyable. It can be in your own room, a quiet café or school library. Additionally, determine whether studying alone or in group is more effective for you.

4. UTILIZE APPS OR SOFTWARE AVAILABLE 
In this tech-savvy era, there is a myriad of apps that ease your time management. We can use the “Forest” apps to implement Pomodoro Technique which alternate focused work sessions with frequent short breaks to promote sustained concentration and avert mental fatigue. Alternatively, there are websites or app blockers that refrains you from losing track such as Freedom or StayFocused.

5. REVIEW AND ASSESS YOUR SCHEDULE 
Constantly evaluate your plan to recognize if any amendment is needed. Unquestionably, it is vital to follow the schedule, however flexibility should be considered in case of planning fallacy* or other spontaneous issues.

*Planning fallacy – people underestimate the time it will take to complete a future task

Ultimately, time management is never an easy skill to obtain. With the pressure of school, assignments, social life or perhaps work, a day can pass in a blink of an eye. With that in mind, the aforementioned tips are suggested for you to be a better time manager by choosing the method that works best for you.