This page is dedicated to resources for students who need help managing their time. But what is time management? According to the Collins English Dictionary, the definition is:

 

time management

-n

the analysis of how working hours are spent and the prioritization of tasks in order to maximize personal efficiency in the workplace

 

This definition is referring to the workplace, but let’s say we apply this to school. Time management would refer to all hours of the day. Your tasks to prioritize would be just about anything in your personal life such as, attending class, completing homework and assignments, working, keeping up with family commitments, and even how you spend your time relaxing.

So, this begs the question – Have you ever analyzed how you spend your time? If not, I urge you to start looking at how you spend your time. For one full day, write down what you have done each moment of the day. Include details such as when you wake up and how long it took to get ready for the day. Track the time spent on activities like eating, watching TV, commuting, working, attending class, completing homework, studying, etc. Be honest and don’t write what you think you should have been doing. Let this be an accurate description of how you spent your day. Then, you can start to analyze your time log to see if you maximized your personal efficiency.

After trying this activity, if you need more help prioritizing your time, meet with a Mentor for Academic Success Techniques (MASTer) to discuss ways you can improve your time management. Email cm.pass@umb.edu to set up a meeting with a MASTer today!

 

References

time management. (n.d.). Collins English Dictionary – Complete & Unabridged 10th Edition. Retrieved August 24, 2012, from Dictionary.com website: http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/time management