Top 5 Productivity Hacks For College Students
Image courtesy of Dennis Hamilton via Flickr (CC 2.0)
The new academic year is fast approaching and like all good students, you’ll be thinking of how to get the most out of your time and studies.
Whilst there is no substitute for hard work, there are always a few life hacks that can help you along the way.
Here are five hacks that can be invaluable during university:
- Airplane mode
This function on smartphones gives you the opportunity for some much needed peace and quiet when you need it most. When you’re studying, it’s best to keep the many distractions that being permenantly connected can bring at bay. Also, turning notifications off is a good idea.
- Hide your phone
One stage further than airplane mode is to leave your phone off and out of sight. It can distract you from what you’re doing even if it’s just turned on. A good motto is: out of sight, out of mind.
- Schedules
We’re creatures of habit, so planning your time is a good way of building good habits. By having a schedule (including your free time, gym, breaks etc), you’ll be much better at keeping on top of all your duties and make the most of your time. Try to find when you work best and then figure that into your schedule.
- Wear headphones
The key to this one is to drown out outside noise, not share the tinny sound of your music with the rest of the library. It’s a good habit to have them on to cover your ears and keep you focussed on the job in hand. You don’t have to listen to music, but if you do – maybe something quiet and calming is best!
- Buddy up!
A problem shared is a problem halved, as the saying goes – so having a study mate or group can help alleviate the stress of study. It can also help keep you to your commitments to have friends remind you! Working together is fun too, so find a fellow traveller and buddy up!