Learning Center – Time Management Tips
(adapted from: http://www.d.umn.edu/student/loon/acad/strat.time_man_princ.html)
As a student, there are some basic Principles of Time Management that you can apply.
1.
Identify "Best Time" for Studying: Everyone has high and low periods of attention and
concentration. Are you a "morning person" or a "night person"? Do you study better before
or after dinner? Study when you have energy to concentrate.
2. Study Difficult Subjects First: When you are fresh, you can process information more
quickly and save time as a result.
3. Take (short) breaks: Study in shorter time blocks with short breaks between. This keeps
you from getting fatigued and "wasting time." This type of studying is efficient because while
you are taking a break, the brain is still processing the information.
4. Make Sure the Surroundings are Conducive to Studying: This will allow you to reduce
distractions which can "waste time." If there are times in your house when you know there
will be noise and commotion, identify another time (if possible) to study.
5. Make Sure you Have Time to Sleep and Eat Properly: Sleep is often an activity (or lack of
activity) that students use as their time management "bank." When they need a few extra
hours for studying or socializing, they withdraw a few hours of sleep. Doing this makes the
time they spend studying less effective because they will need a couple hours to do what
would normally take an hour when well rested. High school students should be getting at
least 8 hours of sleep per night.
6. Try to Combine Activities: Use the "Twofer" concept. If you are waiting for a ride after
school or sitting on the T, review class notes from that day. If you arrive early to school,
make a few note-cards (or, look though ones you have already made).
150 Morrissey Boulevard Boston, MA 02125-3391 phone 617.436.3900 fax 617.474.5105 www.bchigh.edu
Time Management Self Assessment
Based on the previous tips, think about where you stand in terms of your ability to manage
time. Are you doing a good job? Could you make some changes that would positively
benefit you?
Freshmen/Sophomores/Juniors – Answer the questions below
1. I usually study at this time (i.e., right after school, after dinner, whenever I feel like it,
ect)
2. The most difficult subject is
homework for this class first.
. Suggestions: Do your
3. Do you take breaks when you study?

How long (be honest) are these breaks?
4. Where do you study?
Give an honest answer for the questions below:
a. Is there a computer in your room?
b. Is there a television in this room?
If so, is it usually on?
c. Do you send/receive texts while you’re doing your homework?
5. How many hours of sleep do you get per night?
way you could get more?
. Is there any
6. Think about the concept of a “twofer” – when you could incorporate a “twofer” (i.e.,
on the bus or T, waiting for a ride, etc)?
150 Morrissey Boulevard Boston, MA 02125-3391 phone 617.436.3900 fax 617.474.5105 www.bchigh.edu