As a Student, there are some basic Principles of Time Management that you can apply.

1. Identify “Best Time” for Studying: Everyone has high and low periods of attention and concentration. Are you a “morning person” or a “night person”. Use your power times to study; use the down times for routines.
2. Study Difficult Subjects First: When you are fresh, you can process information more quickly and save time as a result.
3. Use Distributed Learning and Practice: Study in shorter time blocks with short breaks between. This keeps you from getting fatigued and “wasting time.” This type of studying is efficient because while you are taking a break, the brain is still processing the information.
4. Make Sure the Surroundings are Conducive to Studying: This will allow you to reduce distractions which can “waste time.” If there are times in the residence halls or your apartment when you know there will be noise and commotion, use that time for mindless tasks.
5. Make Room for Entertainment and Relaxation: College is more than studying. You need to have a social life, yet, you need to have a balance in your life.
6. Make Sure you Have Time to Sleep and Eat Properly: Sleep is often an activity (or lack of activity) that students use as their time management “bank.” When they need a few extra hours for studying or socializing, they withdraw a few hours of sleep. Doing this makes the time they spend studying less effective because they will need a couple hours of clock time to get an hour of productive time. This is not a good way to manage yourself in relation to time.
7. Try to Combine Activities: Use the “Twofer” concept. If you are spending time at the laundromat, bring your psychology notes to study. If you are waiting in line for tickets to the concert, bring your biology flashcards to memorize.

T I M E M A N A G E M E N T T E C H N I Q U E S

STUDY WHEN:
• Plan to study hours for every hour you spend in class.
• Study difficult (or boring) subjects first.
• Avoid scheduling marathon study sessions.
• Be aware of your best time of day.
• Use waiting time.
• Use a regular study area.

STUDY WHERE:
• Choose a place that minimizes visual and auditory distractions.
• Use the library or empty classrooms. Get out of a noisy dorm.
• Don’t get too comfortable. Sit (or even stand) so that you can remain awake and attentive.
• Find a better place when productivity falls off.

YOU AND THE OUTSIDE WORLD:
• Pay attention to your attention.
• Agree with roommates about study time.
• Avoid noise distractions.
• Notice how others misuse your time.
• Get off the phone.
• Learn to say no.
• Hang a “Do Not Disturb!” sign on your door.
• Ask: “What is one task I can accomplish toward my goal?”
• Ask: “Am I beating myself up?” (lighten up, don’t berate self).
• Ask: “Are you a perfectionist”
• Ask: “How did I just waste time?”
• Ask: “Would I pay myself for what I’m doing right now?”
• Ask: “Can I do just one more thing?” (Stretch yourself).