Finishing Your Semester Strong

You're tired. Tired of studying, tired of papers, presentations, tests, and projects. But, sadly, you're not done yet. The pressure is on to finish the semester strong. How can you muster the persistence and organization you need to get everything done while staying as sane as possible?

Right now, you've got to focus on three essential aspects of executive functioning skills to get your there: goal-oriented persistence, time management, and organization. While it may seem counter-productive, taking the time to get clarity on what you have to do, when you're going to work and how you'll approach final assignments and exams will actually transform your studying. Instead of feeling like you are facing the Mt. Everest of homework and preparation, you'll be looking at more manageable rolling hills.

Let's map out your course for the next few weeks. You will need the following supplies: different colored markers or highlighters, a paper calendar of this month and your syllabi.

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1. Set your goals. Take a moment to reflect on your overarching personal and academic goals for the semester. Set an alert on your phone that reminds you of these each day or write them on post-its that you place in key places such as the top of your computer or by your bed. On your paper calendar, take one colored marker and write down the dates and times of all of your due dates. This includes tests, paper, projects, and presentations. Next, use a different marker to block off remaining class meetings. Finally, use a third color to designate meals, exercise/sports and social times. Now we can see what free time you have to actually work.

2. Break it down! Break down your work into chunks: preparation, research, outlining, studying, writing, etc. Make a list or outline for each item that's marked with the due date color. You'll need to consider issues of urgency (what's due first, second, etc.) for prioritizing, how much effort each task will require and if you need assistance with doing any of them.

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3. Use backwards design. Think realistically about how much time you need for each of these items. Starting at the final due date and using the breakdown you've outlined for your work above, walk yourself backwards. Assign specific amounts of time to every facet of your work. Put suggestions about when, where and how you will study. Do you work better with friends? Write a note to yourself to contact people too. As part of your time management, plan for timed work and break periods, using timers and post-its to get you back in the groove once you have paused.

4. Organize your materials. Make folders on your computer for each class with the materials you will need, what you've produced so far and various references to check out. If you prefer paper folders or piles, that's fine but keep your classes separate so everything doesn't merge into one big mound of stuff. Create a launchpad by your door for your stuff for the next day. Put your keys, wallet, phone here each night so you aren't racing around in the morning looking for stuff. This will unnecessarily stress you more.

If you are daunted by doing any of these steps alone, go to the learning center at your school ASAP. Waiting until you are drowning is not a path towards success. Get the help you need now so you can achieve your goals.

Finally, be kind to yourself. Give your brain a break from working each day. Set up incentives and reward yourself for efforting—making progress along the way. Meet a friend for lunch, go for a run, reward yourself with gaming after you've done some solid studying. Do the "have-tos" before the "want-tos" and you'll be on your way to the success you desire.