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Ways to be Productive

As a student, productivity is essential to success. Throughout my college experience, I have learned several tips and tricks to enhance productivity and minimize procrastination. Here are five of my favorite study tips to boost productivity!

  1. Break down bigger tasks into smaller pieces. Students often struggle to recognize where to start studying for a major exam or how to get started on a final project. Encourage your student to break down these larger tasks by setting smaller and attainable goals throughout the completion process. I have learned that taking things one step at a time is much less stressful than trying to figure out everything in one sitting.
  2. Use the 80/20 principle. I have used this principle ever since my advisor explained it to me my freshman year. Like many students, I am definitely a culprit of overcommitting. I quickly learned that this prevented me from giving 100 percent to the opportunities that mattered most. My advisor told me to identify the most important 20% of work that I have to accomplish for the week. Then, cut down on the other 80% of my schedule to allow more time for things that have a larger, more immediate impact. This meant saying “no” to new enticing opportunities so I could focus on what I currently had on my plate. Saying no is difficult for many students, but this gives your student more time to spend on more meaningful opportunities.
  3. Don’t procrastinate or multitask. With so many distractions surrounding your student, it is very easy for them to get preoccupied. This can hinder your students performance as it will take them more time to refocus their attention on the task at hand. If your student tends to procrastinate, encourage them to create a calendar or study plan to help them stay on top of their work. This can be difficult for many students, but it is important that your student finds what works best for them to ensure their success as we move further into the semester.
  4. Plan for when things go wrong. Setbacks are inevitable as a student. Students often underestimate how long it will take to finish a project, forget to account for responsibilities that are not already on their calendars or push something off to a day “that looks more open.” It is critical that your student plans for these obstacles/interruptions by creating contingency plans. By looking ahead and starting early, it is easier to adapt when unplanned problems arise.
  5. Recharge. First and foremost, it is important that your student is taking care of themselves. This means getting enough sleep, exercising and eating healthy. Sometimes when I have been studying for several hours and begin losing motivation, I like to go outside and get some fresh air. It is important that your student finds ways to recharge that work for them so they do not burn out or exhaust themselves from studying. Self-care is critical for efficient work habits!

I hope these tips will help your student enhance their productivity in a healthy and effective manner as we dive further into the semester.

Go Pack!

  • Jenny Mobed