4 Ways to Manage Your Time Better as a Student

How many times have you been told this by people? "If you would just manage your time better, you would get so much more done." Well, unfortunately for you, they're right. Time management is one of the most important skills you can have as a student. When you're jumping from class to class, then trying to get to cheer practice, work a part-time job, and somehow fit a social life in there, time management becomes an absolute necessity.

But sometimes what's right in front of us and so easy to think about is actually the hardest thing to do. So how can we make the most of our time and get more things done?

1. Take advantage of small breaks.

My bus ride to school is 20 to 40 minutes long—depending on which route I take. Since I'm stuck on the bus, I am able to take advantage of the time I have and work on readings for class, making lists of things to do, and replying to those emails I just haven't gotten around to yet.

Driving? No worries. Listen to an audiobook! That way, you're able to "read" your coursework while traveling, working out, doing laundry, or just getting some much-needed shut-eye.

Those little breaks between classes are also a great time to get things done. I always make sure I bring extra homework to school with me, so if a class ends early, I have something to do.

2. Schedule your day.

Sometimes what we really need is just a strict schedule to follow. I have a friend who times her days down to the minute—and I may tease her for starting her essay at exactly 3:27 PM, but she's doing what she needs to do to ensure that she's able to get everything done on time.

Make a little chart for yourself, with each box representing an hour. Fill in what you want to do each hour and make sure you stick by your schedule. If you're having a hard time, try to reward yourself for every hour you follow your schedule. And make sure you schedule in some relaxation time for yourself!

3. Go to bed earlier.

I know this one may seem ridiculous—you're trying to create more time in your day, why would you add more sleep? But hear me out: Most of us, when we stay up late, aren't doing productive things. We've all been there, laying in bed once we've turned out the lights, scrolling through Instagram, and sending funny things to our friends.

If you make a conscious decision to put the phone down and go to bed, you'll be able to go to bed earlier—and, in return, you'll be waking up earlier. Having woken up refreshed, showered, and eaten breakfast, you'll be so much more ready to tackle the day's projects. Plus, you could catch an early bus to school, which means more study time!

4. Cut out distractions.

Ah, social media. Our lifeline, but also the bane of our productivity. I'll be the first to admit that when it comes to social media, sometimes it has control over me more than I control it. And when it comes to studying, social media is always the biggest thing in my way. Well, that and iPhone games.

You may be like me and apps are your downfall. However, there may be another distraction in your life: A friend or significant other, construction by your house... cut! it! out! Turn off your phone, go to the library, blast some music, and do whatever it is you need to do in order to be successful. And if you really can't bear to be alone (another fault of mine) then invite your friends to be productive with you. Next time you have a marathon of The Office, bring out some cue cards and quiz each other. You know when all the funny parts are, anyways.

Hope these helped! Now, get off your phone and go get things done!