23 TIME MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES

STUDY WHEN:

• Plan two 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: "Is this a piano?" (or, "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).

Reproduced with the permission of Gregory Wells, Coordinator, William James Center, Davis and Elkins College, Elkins WV., NACADA Conf. 1987