As a student of Obafemi Awolowo University, managing your time effectively is crucial to achieving academic success, enjoying campus life and reducing stress. Moreover, it is no longer news that the Mid-Semester Continuous Assessment and Harmattan Semester Examination are near.
While some students have started the mid-semester continuous assessment, some are still looking forward to it in the coming weeks. Therefore, time management is paramount, especially when it comes to being a student at Obafemi Awolowo University. There is this saying that, ‘If you fail to prepare, you are preparing to fail.’’ So you must prepare ahead of the exams, then the ‘plan to fail will fail.’
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However, in addition to attending lectures and doing assignments, there are times when you may feel overwhelmed or even confused about how to manage your time and prepare for the coming CA tests and Exams. Meanwhile, personal growth is also an important aspect of students’ lives, including their personal and social lives.
Here are some time management hacks to help you navigate and manage your time.
1. Create a schedule around OAU’s academic calendar: As a student, it is important to plan your semester around the academic calendar, including lecture periods, assignment deadlines, spiritual activities, studying, etc. Doing so will keep you organized and reduce stress from last-minute preparation.
2. Set realistic goals: You must set realistic goals and break large tasks into smaller and manageable chunks. For instance, it is very common among students that they always want to finish 5 topics in one night, but they end up not learning anything. Instead, breaking large tasks into smaller actionable steps makes them less daunting and more manageable.
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3. Divide tasks using the Eisenhower Matrix: You can divide tasks into URGENT vs IMPORTANT and focus on the most critical ones first. Use the matrix to categorise tasks and allocate time accordingly. You can delegate some of your time to running important tasks or errands, and avoid doing unimportant things.
4. Minimize Distractions: Identify common distractions like social media, phone notifications, calls etc. and eliminate them while studying. Use tools like website blockers, Airplane mode, and do not disturb (DND). If necessary, leave your phone in the hostel or inside a library locker so that you can stay focused.
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5. Take breaks and practice self-care: Excessive or Continuous studying without breaks leads to burnout. So, make time for relaxation, socializing, exercise, journaling and solo dates. OAU campus and Ile-Ife at large offer various recreational facilities like the sports complex, eateries, Cinemas, etc. You can also use these breaks to surf the social media or internet. Practicing self-care will help you sustain productivity and good mental well-being.
6. Morning routines: Starting your day with a consistent morning routine increases your productivity and sets a positive tone for the rest of the day. Activities like exercise, meditation, journaling, or even taking a glass of water can boost your energy and mental clarity and will help you start your tasks with focus.
7. Use technology to your advantage: Make use of Google Calendar, task management apps (e.g. Trello) and time-tracking tools (e.g. RescueTime) to stay organized. It will also prevent you from procrastinating.
8. Review and adjust: Life is unpredictable and your schedule should be flexible enough to accommodate changes. So, regularly review your time management strategy and make adjustments as needed. You might have other opportunities or arising matters that may require adjustments. Be flexible enough to adjust your plans whenever there is a need to do so.
As a student, you can take control of your schedule and achieve your academic goals through time management. By practising the hacks outlined above, you’ll be able to make the most of your time and accommodate more activities. Do your utmost to practice those hacks, so that you can ‘MAKE HAY WHILE THE SUN SHINE’.