Preparing For Deadlines

We all know that horrible feeling when a deadline suddenly crops up out of the blue. Maybe you have left it a little late and you only have a couple of days left for a very important assignment?

How can you spend your time wisely? Well first, get into the habit if writing down when you have upcoming deadlines, this way you know exactly what needs doing and by when. To ensure they are met, write down a list of goals you want to finish each day of the week. For example:

Monday – Complete the research section of my new essay.
Tuesday – Find all references needed and copy them down.

And so on. This will really ensure you stick to your goals and finish them on time.

At the end of each day, tick off everything you have completed. Not only will this make it easier for you to know what still needs doing but it will also give you a sense of achievement as you will clearly see what’s finished.

When planning your study week ensure your time is uninterrupted, set goals for 20 minutes without phones, social media or TV, just pure focus. This will help you work faster too!

When writing down your goals, make sure you prioritise by date. A PowerPoint presentation that is needed in 4 weeks’ time isn’t as important as your final essay that is due next week. Even though you may prefer to get the easier work done first you will most likely finish that and then not want to start the more difficult work, leaving it incomplete and that deadline fast approaching.

Also, when scheduling your work into your day, find out your most productive hours and use these to your advantage. Most people find mid-day is theirs, but everyone is different so figure out when you work to your best and schedule that as your time for studies. If you are not having a very productive day and feeling a little down, start off with a small task, that might give you the motivation to finish something you have been putting off.

Although your studies are very important and the whole reason you are at university, make sure you allow time for yourself and your friends, this is valuable for your happiness.

We hope this blog has given you a few ideas around motivation and getting work done on time. If you need any help with student accommodation in Sheffield then please do not hesitate to contact us.