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Submissions - How to plan a Schedule

By ResidenceLifeAssistant 24 Oct 2023

Ever been in a situation where deadlines are approaching and you're stuck or haven't even started with coursework? Well if you did, just know you're not alone! Many students and adults deal with procrastination and bad time management every day, and this is your chance to make an improvement and stress less before deadlines. In this blog you will find effective ways of dealing with procrastination and finding an easy schedule that fits you. We'll break it down into manageable steps that will help you reclaim control over your time and alleviate the stress of impending due dates

Step 1: Identify Your Deadlines

The first step in creating a schedule is to identify all your deadlines. Whether you're a student, a professional, or a freelancer, compile a list of all the projects, assignments, and tasks that have specific due dates. Use a calendar, planner, or digital task management tool to keep track of them. Be sure to include both short-term and long-term deadlines.



a close up of a clock in the middle of a watch
a person writing in a book

Step 2: Prioritize Your Tasks

Once you have a list of deadlines, it's time to prioritize your tasks. Some assignments may be more critical than others or require more time and effort. Consider the following factors when prioritizing:

  1. Importance: Determine the importance of each task to your overall goals and objectives.
  2. Urgency: Consider whether the task has a rapidly approaching deadline.
  3. Difficulty: Assess how much time and effort a task will require.
  4. Dependencies: Note if any tasks are dependent on the completion of others.

Assign each task a priority level (high, medium, or low) to help you focus on what truly matters.

a pile of books

Step 3: Set Realistic Milestones

Now that you know your priorities, it's time to set realistic milestones for each task. Divide larger projects into smaller, manageable steps. By doing this, you can work steadily toward your ultimate goal without feeling overwhelmed. Assign specific dates for these milestones and add them to your schedule. Be sure to consider your own working pace and any potential obstacles that may arise.

Step 4: Create a Weekly Schedule

With your task priorities and milestones in mind, create a weekly schedule that incorporates your everyday commitments, such as work, classes, or family time. Allocate dedicated time slots for working on your tasks, ensuring they align with your energy levels and productivity peaks. Consider factors like your daily routine and whether you're a morning person or a night owl.

Step 5: Utilize Time Management Techniques

Effective time management is essential to staying on track. Consider using techniques like the Pomodoro Technique, time blocking, or the Two-Minute Rule to maximize your productivity during your scheduled work time. Avoid multitasking, as it can lead to decreased efficiency and increased stress.

Step 6: Build in Flexibility

Life is unpredictable, and plans don't always go as expected. Build flexibility into your schedule to accommodate unforeseen circumstances or moments when you need a break. Avoid overloading your schedule, as this can lead to burnout and procrastination.

a man holding a laptop

Step 7: Review and Adjust

Regularly review your schedule to ensure you're making progress on your tasks. If you find that a particular task is taking longer than anticipated or you're consistently falling behind, adjust your schedule accordingly. It's crucial to be adaptable and make revisions when necessary.

Planning a schedule for submissions and deadlines doesn't have to be an arduous task. By following these steps and committing to better time management practices, you can tackle your deadlines with confidence and reduce the stress and anxiety often associated with looming due dates. Remember that effective planning, prioritization, and flexibility are your best allies in the battle against procrastination and last-minute chaos. So, take control of your schedule, and watch your productivity and peace of mind