SIX EFFECTIVE METHODS TO HELP YOU WORK SMARTER INSTEAD OF HARDER

SIX EFFECTIVE METHODS TO HELP YOU WORK SMARTER INSTEAD OF HARDER

Nisha Kumar

Let’s cut to the chase: high school is hard. No matter how much we may have anticipated this significant change in our lives, these four years are the most important, yet arguably most challenging times of our academic career. There are days where we can finish our homework in 30 minutes, and there are others where we stay up until 3 in the morning and get back up at 5. From forgetting about assignments to cramming last minute for major assessments, only high schoolers know the difficulty and importance of proper organization to enjoy our high school experience, maintain good grades, and stay healthy. These five methods are research-proven techniques to use when you are struggling with time management and need a new, fool-proof study plan.

1. Use a planner.

Up until freshman year, I always got excited and used my planner for the first couple of weeks and then forgot about it as it remained at the bottom of my backpack for the rest of the year. What I eventually realized was that instead of a planner that was pleasing to the eye, a spacious, functional planner is better to stay organized. An average week in my planer looks like this:

2. Split time wisely.

One of the biggest mistakes I have made when studying is trying to sit for an extended period and “focus” only on my work. I’m not going to lie: it’s impossible. Your brain can actually only focus completely for 45 minutes at a time. So don't feel discouraged if it's hard for you to stay on task, and small breaks like walking around the room or having a snack could actually be beneficial. Additionally, there are so many distractions that we may encounter, whether it be a sibling or your pet. This method for splitting time has been one of my biggest saviors when it comes to time management.

Start off by working for 25 minutes and then take a 5 minutes break. Afterward, work for 40 minutes and take a ten-minute break. Repeat this cycle until you have finished your homework. When you dedicatedly put in the effort to follow this method, you find your attention span gradually increasing. By consciously putting in the effort not to get distracted and use an upcoming break as motivation, you find yourself avoiding distractions that could cause you to take 40 minutes on an assignment that really only requires 20 minutes.

3. Avoid using electronics.

I know, it’s easier said than done, but this may be the most critical study method of all. There are many times you are required to use your laptop to write an essay or check your school email. However, when decreasing the time you spend using electronics for your studies, you find yourself cutting down the time it would usually take you to complete an assignment.

After coming home and taking some time to unwind, I like to give my phone to a parent. The reason I prefer handing my phone to one of my parents is so that I won’t be tempted to go and check it to see who texted me. I realize that many may not be comfortable doing this, so you can also leave it in a different room while working. However, leaving your phone in another room gives you the freedom to check your phone, so unless you have excellent self-control, avoid using this method.

As for my laptop, I don’t use it for the subjects I don’t need to. Previously, I used to keep my computer open the entire time I was doing homework, and this was an enormous distraction for me, whether it be because of an email notification or a new video that was posted by my favorite YouTuber. When I do need to use my laptop, I do so in front of my parents so that I do not get encouraged to do other things when I should be finishing my research paper.

4. Avoid caffeinated drinks and have healthy snacks handy.

I have to admit--this is something I’m still trying to work on. As a certified coffee lover, the first thing I want to do when I come home is to make myself a mug of coffee before I start my homework. Although this will give me an energy surge, it cuts down on the number of hours of sleep I am able to get When I have to wake up at 5:30 AM. Instead of opting for this caffeinated drink, I have tried to replace it with more healthy options, such as carrots or apples. Throwing these into a smoothie and using it as an energy drink is also a great option.

5. Wake up early instead of sleeping late.

This is another of those things that took me so long to force myself into. To be frank about it, I am absolutely not a morning person. I have always preferred to stay up late and finish my work rather than waking up early. However, research proves that our minds are most active early in the morning.

According to Oxford Learning: “Students who study during the day benefit from a refreshed and energized mind after a good night’s sleep. This energy makes it easier to focus on what is being learned, and absorb the information more effectively.”

By implementing this method into your study routine, you will be able to increase the effectiveness of how well you do what you are working on.

6. Believe in yourself and use your resources.

A crucial aspect of working revolves around believing in what you already know. Be able to trust that you have the right foundation and try to build off of it. Ask your teachers, parents, and peers for help and advice when you need it. You also have online resources such as videos and articles to help you further develop your understanding of essential topics.

By having confidence in yourself, you are able to work more effectively as you know that whatever you’re working on it possible.

In the end, it all comes down to being able to minimize your work time and maximize the time spent taking care of yourself by spending time with family and friends. By implementing these study techniques, you’ll be finding yourself in a stronger, more confident, and happier mental and academic state.