Homework was not everyone’s favorite task in high school, much less in college. Homework can seem daunting; sometimes just getting started is difficult. According to Thomas Edison University, “we’ve all experienced how difficult it feels just to start. So we tend to ignore it and focus on something more fun instead. But then, before we realize, a project that at first seemed manageable now appears next to impossible to complete.” With the use of carefully implemented strategies, you can begin to tackle homework successfully.
Homework Completion Tips
Create a study environment – If you are easily distracted, consider finding a space that is quiet and free from distractions. Conversely, if you focus better with some noise, possibly create a playlist to listen to while working.
Plan – If you tend to procrastinate, keep a calendar listing due dates. This will provide a visual representation of all your assignments. Use your calendar to create a weekly to-do list prioritizing what needs to be completed in order of due date or importance.
Start with your least favorite subject – To reduce your anxiety and increase your confidence, tackle your least favorite subject first. Once you have that assignment completed, move on to the easier or more enjoyable assignments.
Chunk – Homework can overwhelm us to the point of not knowing how to approach it. One great strategy is chunking. Chunking is breaking down an assignment into smaller, more manageable units. For example, if your assignment is 50 pages of reading, you can chunk the assignment into reading 10 pages at a time.
Reward yourself – Consider planning out a reward once your homework is completed. If you have a paper due, reward yourself with going out to dinner with friends or watching your favorite show.
Completing homework as a college student does not have to be a painful experience. Take time to evaluate how you best learn and use the above tips to develop a strategy to help you become a better student.
