Within the first few weeks of the semester, many students realize that time management is one of the most difficult and challenging aspects of being enrolled in college courses. Being organized and managing your time efficiently can make all the difference when it comes to being successful.

Time Management Strategies

Get and use a calendar. Paper, cell phone or computer spreadsheet, it doesn't matter what kind of calendar you use, just make sure you have one and you keep it updated with all of your assignment due dates.

Plan ahead. Do you have a large assignment or paper due at the end of the semester? Work backwards on your calendar and set deadlines for yourself on when you would like to have different parts of assignments completed. This way you won't be stressed and rushing to complete a big assignment at the end of the semester.

Plan for the unexpected. You never know when your computer might get a virus, your Internet might go down or you might get sick. Don't wait until the last minute to try and complete your assignments. Always have a back-up plan.

Prioritize your assignments. Start with the most difficult assignment. That way you'll have more energy and brainpower to dedicate to the task.

Dedicated study space and time. Determine a study place and time when you won't be distracted and can concentrate on your assignments. This might be early in the morning or late in the evening, but should be a time that your mind is clear and ready to concentrate.

Blocks of study time. Most people can only study for 40-60 minutes at a time before they become restless. Figure out how long you can concentrate on one subject and then schedule your studying into blocks of time allowing for breaks in between. Cramming all your studying into one big 3 or 4 hour chunk is not an efficient or effective way to study or complete assignments.