For my continuing series on basic college study skills, I’m going to discuss the basics of how to create a foolproof college study schedule. I’ve already touched on this a little bit in a previous article but on further reflection I’ve decided this subject needs more input.
Most of you have probably heard the old adage a stitch in time saves nine. It’s great advice, however very few college students remember these words of wisdom when it comes time to build a college study schedule. I’ve battled with a lack of organizational skills as well; it wasn’t until I stopped trying to be solely accountable and brought in other people and tools to keep me accountable that my college study schedule really started to stick. So with that in mind I’m going to concentrate on a few tools that you can use TODAY and in the next 30 MINUTES to get yourself back on track.
Semester White Board
You need a semester white board. I’ve given you an example of mine here which I use to map out my semester. I lovingly call it my ‘battle map’ as it maps out my entire semester and gives me a good idea of the college schedule battlefield. Notice how I’ve used different markers for each class and even used a different colour for socializing. This gives me a great way to look over my schedule and figure out exactly what I need to do today, next week and next month. These things can cost anywhere from a dollar to 20 bucks. I’d suggest you buy a good one as I still use it now for most of my work in my tutoring business. After reading this post you can jump in the car or bus to your local business supplies store and have one in fewer than 15 minutes.
A Daily Planner
Get yourself a daily planner, I don’t really care if it’s digital or a pen and paper version but you must have one for two important reasons. First, this will work as a backup for your semester planner. Second, your daily planner can work as an in depth to do list which can focus your day allowing you to forget about what doesn’t need to be done today and concentrate on what needs to be done immediately. I personally use Ical from apple as it updates with my mac and ipod which I use as my daily planner. However, if you feel more comfortable with paper by all means use that instead. Just make sure you have something that you look at everyday that gives you a concise breakdown of your daily ‘to do’s.’
Accountability Partners
Make sure you have accountability partners who can keep you accountable for your college study schedule. Whether this is a roommate, and classmate, a parent or a tutor, you have to have somebody in your life that will hold you accountable if you don’t follow your schedule. In my company we simply give students Ivy League tutors to keep them accountable, however if that isn’t an option for you, I find the best option is to get a roommate. You’ll see them everyday and you’ll probably be going through the same kinds of courses and have the same hectic college schedules.
Follow those three tenants of organization and you shouldn’t have any problems with creating the ultimate college study schedule. If you’d like a free chapter of my book which can help any college student achieve academic success check out my online college tutoring program and I’ll automatically send you a free chapter.
