Managing Homework

Do you ever feel bombarded with homework, like there is no way you're going to get it all done? I'm going to be sharing a few tips and tricks that I've learned over the years so that maybe... just MAYBE, someone will benefit from them.

1. Keep a planner.

I'm not talking about the ugly boring ones they give out at school that are supposed to help you oh so much. I'm talking the cute and aesthetically pleasing, Tumblr-looking planner you buy at Target or TJ MAX. I personally feel if I have a designated place to write due dates and test days, it is easier for me to manage it all. Also, you can use it for things at home as well such as chores or dates, things like that. You could even be a good little noodle and develop a color code system. Whatever suits you, just make sure you stick with it.

2. Complete by Importance

If I don't have that much homework, I like to do the hardest things when I'm feeling inspired and ready to work and the easier/ more enjoyable things for when I'm really not feeling it (aka all the time). I might like this method the best, but if I have a lot to do, nothing gets done. It is best to actually complete homework based on the due date. If you have a math paper due tomorrow and an essay due the next week, start the essay first. It may seem like the essay should be done first as it will take longer, but if you don't finish everything that night, you're going to be stuck trying to finish your math problems at midnight instead. If you do it this way, it won't matter whether you're completely finished with everything or not because you will have more time the next day for your essay.

3. Reward yourself.

I speak from personal experience, you're not going to get anything done right if you sit and work for five hours straight. Hey, I don't know you. If this works, more power to you, but wouldn't you rather watch an episode of Netflix for every hour of work or get a snack when you finish something? Studies show the most effective after school work is done with thirty minute work periods and a five minute break in between. I'm not sure about you, but I can eat a lot of gummy bears in five minutes.

4. Don't stress out.

Do. Not. Stress. This is probably the most important. I've had a lot going on recently, both in and out of school. I am a worrier. It got so bad I broke out in stress hives, red patchy places of dry skin, and they itch. It was an awful experience and they weren't the most flattering thing to happen. If anything, you can always ask your teacher for an extension if you can't get it right the first time, ask a friend for help, or set up a time to talk with your teacher.

Don't lose sleep over it.

Last but not least, don't lose sleep. We're teenagers, we need sleep. Without sleep we are tired, slow, grumpy, and altogether miserable. Sleep deprivation is not a fun thing and homework is not worth it. The best way I've found to avoid this is to get an early start on your homework. Don't wait until 8 o'clock to start your homework. Instead, start as soon as you get home. You are still in school mode, and this is when the best work is done. If you're hungry, grab a snack, but don't waste time.

Use these tips wisely. ;)