Procrastination is a normal human instinct, especially for students. For some, it’s a classic example of “future delegation” – they assume that a future version of themselves will do the job, so they suspend any present action. For others, procrastination stems from perfectionism; they believe delaying an action is better than getting it wrong.
Whatever your reasons, procrastination can seriously hamper your forward momentum at school. And chronic procrastination can mean missed deadlines, crammed study sessions, and, in some unfortunate cases, failing grades.
It’s best to nip procrastination in the bud. This article explores five tried-and-true tips for busting those self-sabotaging delay tactics once and for all.
Learn the Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro technique is often billed as a time management tool. However, its benefits extend to busting procrastination and helping increase concentration.
Named for a type of kitchen timer (“pomodoro” means tomato in Italy, the shape of the analog timers popular in that country), the method involves setting multiple timers. You alternate your timers like this:
- Set a 25-minute timer, during which time you will work on your studies
- Follow these sessions with a 5-minute break (also timed)
- These 30-minute cycles are called a “pomodoro.” After three or four of these “pomodoros,” set a timer for a longer 30-minute break.
By breaking your extensive study sessions into bite-sized pieces, you mitigate the risk of overwhelming your brain. You also train yourself to work in short bursts, which, when added up at the end of the day, represent a highly productive whole.
Download a Tool to Limit Distracting Apps
According to recent stats, the average teen spends over seven hours a day on their phones – with 97% saying they use their phones recreationally during school hours.
Social media can be fun, even beneficial, in specific contexts. However, it’s a powerful enemy in the fight against procrastination: an addictive, omnipresent, highly accessible distraction amid what should be study time.
Consider downloading social media-blocking apps that limit your access to apps during school hours. Once you’re done for the day, the app will lift its restrictions, and you can catch up on what you missed that day.
Consider Switching to Online Courses
It might sound counter-intuitive to give yourself more freedom when trying to kick procrastination. However, several students report that online learning helps them manage their time more effectively.
It makes sense. Quality online schools are self-paced, meaning that students set their own schedules for course completion. By shifting responsibility to you, the student, these courses force you to hone your time management skills, self-sufficiency, and self-motivation. Plus, the best online schools offer 24/7 tutoring, so you can get help round-the-clock if you find yourself struggling. Consider switching one course — complete your ENG4U course online, for instance – or talk with parents about making the move entirely.
Establish a Focus-Fostering Study Space
Your concentration is only as good as its immediate environment – that’s true for all types of students. If you surround yourself with distractions, noises, and mess, guess how your brain responds? It feels distracted, noisy and messy!
Establish a clean, clear, and dedicated study space. Keep what you need for a successful study day close at hand. And consider devices like noise-canceling headphones to block out—let’s say—your siblings arguing in the next room.
If you struggle to stay on task, incorporate these straightforward tips in your study routine.
