There’s no doubt about it, CQUni students are busy. Balancing study with family, work and social commitments is not easy. So, before you start dreaming of owning a Tardis like Dr Who or a Time-Turner like Hermione Granger, try these simple time-management tips.
#1 Find your study space
Find a dedicated space for study and assignment writing. It doesn’t need to be a luxurious office space, but a well-organised (and tidy) space for study can do wonders for keeping you on top of things.
#2 Set goals
Set yourself some goals for the term. Make sure your goals are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound). These goals will help you to stay focused and avoid getting off track. Remember to factor in your family, health and social goals, balance is important!
#3 Keep track of progress
Write weekly or daily to-do lists. Remember to cross items of as you complete them to give you the feeling of satisfaction of getting closer to your goal.
#4 Take advantage of free apps
Explore the app store. There are some great free apps available to help students to manage their time and avoid procrastination.
#5 Book a study room
Get a room. If finding the peace and quiet you need to study is difficult, consider making a regular time to visit the library. For students close to a CQUni campus you can book study rooms and spaces, for distance students, the local council library can be a useful study space.
#6 Make planning a priority
Keep a term planner. Each term the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) make term planners available to students. You can print your own or pick one up at orientation. It’s essential that you put all important information from the term on the planner such as assessment due dates, residential schools and exams. Put your planner somewhere prominent like on the fridge or on the back of the toilet door for a regular reminder of what’s coming up.
#7 Seek support if you need it
For extra information on getting organised, visit the ALC Moodle site for resources and upcoming workshops.
This article was prepared by the Academic Learning Centre. Visit www.cqu.edu.au/alc to find out how the ALC can assist you.
I am a CQUni alumnus, who graduated back in 2010. Straight after graduating, I took a job in media, and later returned to CQUni working full-time as Student Communications Assistant. I remember all too well the panic fuelled ‘all-nighters’, getting lost on campus, confusion over systems, and the general feeling of being unsure. I'm excited to share my experiences and provide some insights into university life.