When it comes to the academic success of students, learning to manage one's time is a must. Good time management can help students of all ages to improve how they study. For many students, studying is a difficult struggle that is plagued by procrastination, interruptions, and a general lack of free time. This can negatively affect grades and be a source of unnecessary stress and anxiety. Creating a study schedule is a time management method that can reduce a student's level of stress by teaching them how to set aside the necessary amount of time for studying and how to use that time wisely.

Setting Up a Study Schedule

The first step of setting up a study schedule is choosing a calendar or program to arrange the schedule on. Whatever a person chooses to use (paper or digital), it should be something that they can easily refer to and has enough space to document daily study requirements for at least a semester. Once a calendar is in hand, the student should mark down or enter all of the dates that are set, such as test dates, project deadlines, or class times. If the student participates in a sport, dates and times of each game and practice session should also be documented. After the athletic and fixed academic hours and activities have been entered on the calendar, it is time to add one's study time. Assignments and projects should be prioritized and scheduled accordingly based on when they are due and the level of importance.

Eight Tips for an Effective Schedule

• Place the calendar or printed schedule in a visible location so that it is easy to see and follow. Even if you’re using a digital calendar, print it out. 
• When writing dates on a physical calendar, use a pencil so that it is easy to make changes if needed. 
• Don't create a schedule that isn't flexible enough to accommodate emergencies or conflicts that may arise. 
• Schedules should be created so that the study times are consistent each day, which will help create positive study habits. 
• Don't give up well-balanced meals for study time. Poor eating habits can lead to fatigue, an inability to concentrate, and consequently less effective study time. 
• Schedule study time in a location that has minimal distractions or interruptions. 
• Study one course at a time for no more than an hour. Half an hour is better. 
• Color-coded schedules are often easier to see and follow.

Create Your Schedule - And Stick With It!

Sticking with a study schedule is just as important as creating one. No one creates a schedule with the intent to ignore it, but unfortunately it can be far too easy to do just that. If a schedule is too intense and offers little downtime, students may find it too difficult to stick to, or they may become prone to easy distractions. For this reason, it is important to ensure that there is still time for social or physical activities in addition to study. These activities, such as time to exercise, should be included in the schedule to help create balance. Another way to stick to a study schedule is to reward oneself for successfully and consistently adhering to it. Rewards, both big and small, can be a great motivator!

by David Lewis, QVS Virtual Counselor