The clock’s ticking! Here are some tips and tricks to help you stay on schedule, meet deadlines and keep stress far, far away
Don’t panic! Here’s how to stay on schedule and manage your time effectively. Photo: ShutterstockSchool can become overwhelming – and quickly. The key to balancing homework, extracurricular activities and downtime is mastering the skill of effective time management. Here is how to meet targets, ease pressure and leave room for the things you enjoy, like hobbies or time to unwind. It’s all about working smarter, not harder – so you can excel without burning out.
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1. Prepare the night before
Before heading to bed, write down your top three priorities for the next day. For example, these could be reviewing for a quiz, packing for a class that requires extra items – like physical education – and replying to a peer about a group assignment. You can use a small notebook, your phone’s notes app or even a good old sticky note. Keep it simple: stick to three tasks and check them off as you go.
Why it helps: Planning ahead clears your mind and sets your focus for the morning. You’ll wake up knowing exactly what needs your attention.
2. Eliminate distractions
Put your phone on silent or in another room. Pick one task – like finishing making revision notes for a textbook chapter – and dive in. Set a timer for 20 minutes and commit to working uninterrupted. That means no texting, scrolling or checking notifications. You can reward yourself once you are done.
Why it helps: You’ll be amazed how much you can accomplish without your phone buzzing. Plus, working in short, distraction-free bursts can boost your concentration and productivity.
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3. Break big tasks down
Overwhelmed by a huge assignment? Split your task into smaller, manageable steps. For example, if you have a science exam, you could start by giving yourself 20 minutes to review one chapter, 15 minutes to make 10 flashcards and 10 minutes to quiz yourself on the chapter. For an English essay, try giving yourself 10 minutes to determine the topic and another 15 to list out key points. That way, you can change your question if you need to.
Why it helps: Breaking something down makes even the scariest tasks – like a five-page paper or preparing for final exams – feel doable. You’ll build confidence as you check off each step instead of staring at a mountain of work.
4. Prioritise, prioritise, prioritise
Rank your tasks by importance and urgency. Ask yourself, “What’s due first?” and “What’s worth the most?” Focus on high-impact items – like a paper worth 20 per cent of your grade – before smaller things like organising your revision material. Make a quick list of everything on your plate, including homework and chores. Mark the top few tasks with a star, thinking about deadlines and value. Start there, even if they’re tough.
Why it helps: Prioritising ensures you tackle what matters most first, not just what is easy or fun. It keeps you ahead instead of scrambling later.
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5. Build a deadline cushion
Aim to finish assignments or study goals one day before they’re due. For example, if a science report is due Friday, strive to wrap it up Thursday evening. Check your deadlines weekly and shift each one back a day in your planner or calendar. Treat the new date as a real due date.
Why it helps: This deadline buffer protects you from unexpected issues and delays – like a Wi-fi crash or a last-minute task – and relieves pressure. Even if you slip, you will still be on track.