01 August 2023
Time management is important for students, to balance their studies and other daily activities. It refers to the process of organising and planning how to arrange one’s time between different activities.
Managing time well is something that can be learned and practiced in order to make the most of your daily routine.
Time management increases productivity, self-confidence, self-esteem and reduces stress. Good time management will help you reach your goals and achieve balance in your life, and contribute to health and happiness.
Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust (CRET) has compiled some tips for students to effectively manage time:
Tips for time management
- Set goals: Set realistic and specific long and short-term goals, then set deadlines for all your goals.
- Learn to prioritise: List your tasks from most to least important and once you know the order in which your tasks should be done in, draw up a schedule.
- Make a schedule: Set up a semester calendar and mark all important dates, such as your class and lab times. You also need to highlight all your exams and project due dates. Your schedule should clearly indicate the times you have allocated for studying as well as your break times.
- Organise your time: Divide your study time into manageable chunks and try to study at the same time each day. Use your spare time to evaluate your plan and adjust your schedule if necessary.
- Procrastination: Procrastination is the enemy of progress. Avoid procrastinating and learn to say “no” to time wasters. Organising, scheduling, planning and meeting your deadlines will help you overcome procrastination. Try to study in an environment with minimal distractions and avoid using your phone during your study sessions. Most importantly, practise self-discipline.
Time management is about balancing different spheres of your life – school, personal time and career. Make time to spend with friends and family, for exercising, and to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep.
