Time management involves planning and controlling how you spend your time on tasks and is important as it allows you to focus and not get distracted, therefore allowing you to complete more in less time, or prioritise your personal and study life balance.
There are many time management techniques available. Here is a brief list of simple techniques to get you started.
https://assignmentcalc.avondale.edu.au/Assignment Calculator
There are various approaches to implementing time management strategies, particularly when it comes to focusing on tasks. Explore the following popular time management techniques and select the ones that resonate with you.
Eisenhower Decision MatrixPresident Eisenhower developed this matrix and used it to help him evaluate and prioritize his tasks by importance and urgency, then broke them into four categories:
|
ABCDE MethodThis is another time management strategy for prioritising assignments into five categories by importance by assigning each item a letter:
This is very similar to the Eisenhower Matrix, with a little more flexibility around should-dos and could-dos. |
Eat That Frog- Most Difficult FirstBased on a quote often attributed to Mark Twain: “If it’s your job to eat a frog, it’s best to do it first thing in the morning. And If it’s your job to eat two frogs, it’s best to eat the biggest one first.” In other words, don’t put off the biggest, hardest tasks. Get them out of the way first. Then, everything else you have to do will seem easy in comparison. This concept can be counterproductive if you’re already feeling overwhelmed. The key is to make progress, one step at a time. |
Pomodoro TechniqueIn this simple time management method, you work for 25 minutes at a time, then take a 5-minute break to rest and recharge. |
FlowtimeUnlike the Pomodoro Technique, Flowtime stretches out both the work and break time proportionally. If you work for 25-50 minutes, take an 8-minute break. For 50-90 minutes, you get a 10-minute break. And if you’ve been at it for more than 90 minutes, take 15 minutes to recharge. |
TimeboxingTimeboxing is a simple technique that involves allotting a fixed, unit of time for an activity, stopping when the time has finished. Once you have finished you can assess whether you were able to meet your goals. |
Time BlockingThis method is similar to timeboxing, but it involves setting blocks of time aside on your calendar for specific tasks. Some people like to start each day by blocking time out on their calendars, figuring out how they’ll make the most of their time. |
TASKS
The TASKS technique helps you to priorities activities by breaking large activities into smaller ones and plan your work schedule more effectively. |
References
Auld, Sophia. (September 4, 2023). Time management skills that improve student learning. Australian Christian College. https://www.acc.edu.au/blog/time-management-skills-student-learning/
Staake, J. (December 7, 2023). 20 effective time management strategies and tools for students. We the Teachers. https://www.weareteachers.com/time-management-strategies/