Getting Homework Done in College

I know that, especially in the first few weeks of college getting homework done is the ultimate struggle. There are so many distractions; new friends, many welcome back parties, new roommates, a new apartment or dorm..so much “new” and so much to get used to. With all of this excitement happening around you, the last thing you want to think about, let alone set aside hours upon hours to do is homework. However, homework is obviously inevitable in college.

Here are a few things that I have found helpful in aiding me to get my homework done efficiently while still allowing time for social life.

1.    Get rid of any distractions that could prolong the amount of time your homework should take. That means turn off that episode on Netflix that you’ve seen at least ten times. Put the cellphone away or at least turn it on silent and take your headphones out of your ears. If there is anything around you that could be a possible distraction remove it… or remove yourself. I know that when living with multiple other people, sometimes it is hard to surround yourself with a ‘homework friendly’ environment. In this case pack up your books and head to the library or even to Starbucks. Sometimes being in an environment where you are surrounded by others who are getting their work done can be very motivational.

2.    Create a list of what assignments need to be done, and create the list in order of priority, obviously making the earliest due assignment at the top priority along with assignments that require the most work. After you create your initial list, make a list for each day of what you need to accomplish that day in order to allow yourself some time to socialize as well as making sure you are turning in your assignment on time. However, be reasonable with your list so you are not overwhelmed. Focus on one task at a time.

3.   TAKE BREAKS. Your brain needs breaks from studying in order to refresh itself. Go outside and take a walk on the beach or get up and grab a snack to break up the long hours of studying before you.

4.     Get help when you need it. All of the teachers I’ve had in the past two semesters have been impeccable and extremely generous and helpful in their office hours! Use these office hours. Not only does it show your professor that you are serious about the class but you also get some great one on one help. Another great study tactic is to form a study group. Sometimes having another student explain to you how they understand the topic can be extremely helpful!

So the next time that you sit down to tackle your homework, take a look back at this list. You may be amazed at how much you accomplish in one sitting with just a few key pints.