Time management is a skill every student can benefit from. It’s more than just finding enough time to get homework done—it’s about managing time effectively to balance academics, extracurriculars, personal time, and even relaxation. Here are a few strategies for improving time management and becoming a more organized, less stressed student.

Why Time Management is Important

Improves Productivity: Students who manage their time well get more done in less time. By having a plan in place, they know exactly what needs to be done and when, which reduces the chance of last-minute cramming or rushing through assignments.

Reduces Stress: Time management helps students stay on top of their tasks, meaning less time worrying about deadlines. A well-organized schedule leads to fewer surprises and more control over your workload.

Creates Balance: Juggling school, after-school activities, and personal time can be overwhelming. By blocking out time for everything, students can ensure they aren’t neglecting important aspects of their lives.

Tips for Better Time Management

• Use a Planner: A paper planner offers a visual map of your week, making it easier to plan ahead. Each day, write down your to-dos and upcoming deadlines. Seeing your workload on paper keeps you accountable and prevents you from forgetting tasks.  Tip: Check your planner every night before bed to ensure you’re prepared for the next day.

• Break Down Large Tasks: Big projects can feel overwhelming but breaking them down into smaller steps makes them manageable. For example, instead of "Write a 10-page paper," you could break it into tasks like "Research topic," "Create outline," and "Write draft."  Tip: Give each smaller task its own deadline to avoid cramming at the last minute.

• Prioritize Tasks: Not all tasks are created equal. Start your day by identifying the most important or time-sensitive tasks and tackling those first. By focusing on high-priority items, you make sure you get the important stuff done, even if time runs out for smaller tasks. Tip: Use stickers like "High," "Medium," and "Low" priority in your planner to help you organize your to-do list. Highlighters in different colors work great too!

• Time Blocking: Set specific blocks of time for different activities—homework, study sessions, extracurriculars, and breaks. For example, you might block out 4:00-5:30 pm for homework and 7:00-8:00 pm for studying. Time blocking helps you stay focused during each task and prevents overlap.  Tip: Use a timer during each block to ensure you stick to the time limits.

With a few simple strategies, students can master time management and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Consistency is key—build a habit of planning your days and weeks, and you’ll find more balance and less stress.

Start managing your time like a pro! Download our free "Time Recorder and Time Approximator" to get started, or check out our planners designed to make time management simple.