Welcome back, Warhawks! With the fall semester starting up, students already have homework pouring in. Here are five steps to being productive, which will help avoid some stress this semester.

 

  1. Let Yourself Focus

This may seem like a no-brainer, but it is really important! You can’t expect yourself to get anything done if you aren’t able to stay concentrated. Keeping focused is also pretty simple, but here are a
few suggestions to get you started: turn off the notifications on your electronics(or just turn them off), clear your workspace, and put on light background music.

 

 

  1. Use a Planner

I have seen lots of students go out and buy a planner with the intent of using it to stay organized during the semester, but don’t actually use it when the time comes. A planner is helpful in various ways, but especially to keep track of when assignments are due. Keeping a list of what you need to do is another way to make sure you stay on top of your school work.

 

  1. Find a Study Spot

I myself have fallen victim to the comfort of being in bed and doing homework, but you can be so much more productive if you have a designated spot for studying. The problem with doing homework from bed is that you also sleep there, so you are used to being able to relax in that spot. The UC, Library, Hyland, Laurentide, and even the residence halls all have areas that students can go to study. Our blog, Best Study Spots on Campus also lists some pros to certain locations.

 

  1. Do the Most Stressful Thing First

By completing the hardest or most stressful task first, it will feel like you can accomplish anything afterwards. The other items on your to-do list should seem much easier to complete when you get the biggest item out of the way. It is also important that you don’t just complete an assignment quickly to get it crossed off. Make sure you are completing assignments effectively so you truly feel like you completed the task.

 

  1. Take Breaks!

This might seem out of place in a guide on being productive, but giving yourself small breaks can keep you motivated to keep working. We are only human, so taking short, 10-15 minute breaks for every 45-60 minutes worked will keep you from wearing yourself out. These breaks can be used to eat some brain food, drink water, walk around, or playing a game to rest your brain.

 

By following this guide, some of the semester stress can hopefully be avoided. Leave a reply with some other favorite tips to staying productive!