Time Management

University studies require more independent learning outside of class and lab instruction. Learn to take charge of your schedule and make the best use of your study time.

 

  • Use your course outlines or syllabi
    • For each course, add tests, assignments, and weekly tasks (e.g., problem sets or readings) to a semester calendar with BU important dates for the term
  • Know where you are spending your time
    • Use a weekly time log or an interactive time log to estimate your time
  • Plan out your priorities. What needs to be accomplished today, this week, this month?
    • Identify goals for each course. Explore these suggestions for setting smart goals
  • Break tasks into manageable chunks: divide and conquer
  • Set reasonable time limits to improve focus and concentration. Use distributed practice
  • Make a term and weekly schedule for the term.
    • Put the most demanding tasks in your most productive time
    • Be generous when estimating the time needed for tasks
    • Leave open spaces or ‘down time’ every day for the unexpected
      • Don’t write in everything! Too much detail can become a form of procrastination
  • Explore evaluating your time troubles for suggestions for studying with family and work responsibilities
  • Choose study spaces that match the task demands. On campus spaces include:
    • John E. Robbins library hours
    • Under the main dining room by the Office of International Activities for tables and group work
    • The comfy couches with charging stations down the hall from Student Services
    • The welcoming Indigenous Peoples’ Centre next to the Evans Theatre
    • The quiet study rooms on the 2nd to 4th floors of Clark Hall
    • The student lounges in the basement of the Music and Education buildings