subject: College Life: Learning To Manage Your Time Part 1 [print this page] It would not be much time after your college starts that you would realize that time is one of the most difficult things to manage in college. There are a lot of tasks and activities to complete and keep track of making it mandatory for a student to manage their time effectively. This is where time management skills come to use. This is part 1 of a two-part article that provides tips on managing your time in college.
Time Management Tip #1: Use a Calendar
Use a calendar. It does not matter what kind of calendar you use. You could use a calendar on your laptop, cell phone, or even a simple paper calendar. Make sure you use one and only one calendar for all your purposes. Having multiple calendars will only increase your work. If you carry your laptop everywhere you go, then maybe you could use that for your calendar. However, the best way to go about is to carry a calendar-based pocket diary or a PDA. It is much easier to carry it everywhere with you.
Time Management Tip #2: Write down all your to-dos
Write down all your tasks. This should not be restricted to college based activities only. Personal activities should be scheduled as well. A call to your parents or friends back home, sleeping time, and movies should all be included in your calendar.
Time Management Tip #3: Relaxation time
It is important to schedule some time off in your calendar and make sure that you keep to it. It could be as less as 10 minutes but relaxing can rejuvenate you and bring back the energy required for completing your tasks.
Time Management Tip #4: Remain flexible
Just because you have planned every minute of yours, it does mean you cannot change it. If something important comes up, you may need to make adjustments. Better still, make room for such last-minute activities in your calendar.
