Every new semester is an opportunity to reflect on what you did well and come up with ideas of how to do better. There are many aspects of your life you could focus on, but one that’s particularly important is productivity. There are several tactics you can use to improve your productivity next semester.
- Use a Planner
A planner is essential for every student. It’s your place to create a schedule, write down due dates for your homework, and keep a to-do list — all things you need to be productive. - Tidy Your Apartment
You’ll waste a huge amount of time if you’re always searching for things you need in a messy apartment. After you’ve tidied your living space, keep it neat by getting into the habit of putting things back where they belong. To make this easier, purchase storage solutions like wall caddies and binders. - Organize Your Files
It’s also important to keep your digital life organized. Go through your files and delete anything you no longer need. For the rest, create a filing system with folders and subfolders. This will help you find what you need faster and stop you from becoming distracted with anything unrelated to the task at hand when you’re doing schoolwork. - Split Projects into Smaller Tasks
Large projects can often feel unmanageable, which can make them intimidating. However, when you split them into smaller tasks, you’ll see that it is possible to make progress, which will help you stay motivated. - Use Active Studying Techniques
When you’re studying, avoid passive reading — you won’t take in hardly any information. If you’re reading something for the first time, take notes. If you’re preparing for a test, use flashcards, rewrite your notes, or try to answer questions similar to those you’ll encounter in the exam. - Determine Your Priorities
When you’re exceptionally busy, you may lack enough hours in the day to finish everything you’d like to do, even if you stay focused. When this happens, you need to prioritize. Put the items on your to-do list in order of importance or use a colour-coding system to determine what to work on first and what you may need to leave for another day. - Take Breaks
It may feel like breaks just make you lose valuable time and prevent you from being as productive as you could be. In fact, it’s impossible to focus and perform your best if you never stop. Besides, you should be able to use your breaks productively. For example, you could do stretches or a short workout, eat a healthy snack, or do small tasks you never seem to find the time for, such as sending some quick emails. What you shouldn’t do is scroll through your phone — not only is this unproductive, it’s easy to start taking longer breaks than you intended.
It’s also important to limit how many breaks you take. Determine how long you’re able to concentrate for and set a timer. Just take breaks at these scheduled times. - Sleep Enough
Similarly, you need to sleep enough to remain productive throughout the day. Aim for seven or eight hours a night — or however much you know you need. Note that it’s easier to consistently get enough sleep if you have a regular bedtime and wake-up time.
The only way you’ll maximize your productivity is if you live close to campus. It’s also crucial to have a quiet spot where you can focus on your schoolwork in your student housing. Peterborough students can find just that at Severn Court. Our apartments are located right across the street from Fleming College. They all feature six private bedrooms, which are fully furnished with a bed, closet, desk, chair, and shelves. Apply now to move in before next semester.
