Once you've laid out the big picture, you need to organize the practical details of identifying tasks to accomplish, setting up schedules and establishing the best time and place for studying.
Making a Task List by the University of Guelph. "One of the basics of effective time management is to be aware of all that needs to be done. Though many people keep track of day-to-day activities in their heads, effective time managers facilitate planning and productivity by making a task list." This resource covers three basic steps: listing all study-related tasks, estimating the time each task will take and ranking them in priority order.
Time Scheduling by the University Counseling Center at Virginia Tech. Eight tips for effective time-scheduling as a college student, such as: "Plan for Weekly Reviews: At least one hour each week for each class (distinct from study time) should be scheduled. The weekend is a good time for review."
Time Scheduling Suggestions by the University Counseling Center at Virginia Tech. Practical advice on how to prepare long-term, intermediate-term and short-term schedules.
When to Study, Where to Study, and How to Handle the Rest of the World by the Student Learning Center at Rice University. Detailed, practical tips on time management. Some examples:
- When to Study: "Plan two hours of study time for every hour spent in class. There are exceptions, but this is a good general rule."
- Where to Study: "Use a regular study area. Your body knows where you are. When you use the same place to study, day after day, your body becomes trained. When you arrive at that particular place, it will automatically sense that it's time to study. You will focus your concentration more quickly."
- How to Handle the Rest of the World: "Notice how others misuse your time. Be aware of repeat offenders. Ask yourself if there are certain friends or relatives who consistently interrupt your study time. If avoiding them is impractical, send a clear (but gentle) message. Sometimes others don't realise they are breaking your concentration."
