Creating a schedule can be difficult; especially if you are used to having one provided for you. The key to creating a successful schedule is time management. Making sure that you complete your work for the day, as well as daily activities. When creating a schedule it is important to remember that you should be focusing 5-7 hours per week, per class. Also, remembering to take breaks and make time for your self is going to help you throughout the day. Remember to create flexible schedules because sometimes life happens. Below are tips on creating schedules, and an example schedule.
The first step to planning your day and week is to try and maintain a good sleep schedule. At least 8 hours a night this will help you focus more and feel more awake.
Planning your schoolwork on your own can be difficult at first but a good way to start is writing down when every assignment is due. This can allow you to create a schedule based on what needs to be completed first.
It is important to not overwork yourself. Allow yourself to take brain breaks in the end this will help you be more focused. Try using the 50-10 rule. Study for 50 minutes and take a 10 minute brain break. This will also help you to not procrastinate.
A big tip that helped me when I first started online learning was to have a dedicated space to study in. This could be your desk or your kitchen table, anywhere except your bed. When you study in your bed, your brain begins to associate that space with work which in turn can mess up your sleep schedule.
Figure out how you learn best. This can take some time and get a little frustrating but if you can figure out how to take notes that will really help you when that big test comes around, you will be more successful in your learning.
The final tip I would suggest is to eliminate distractions. Your phone is a big distraction. There are apps that you can get that set times where you won't be able to get onto certain apps such as Instagram or TikTok. Or, you could move your phone to a different room. To some people it is helpful to listen to music while you work, it may be less distracting to listen to the music on your computer.
Don't forget that we are all in this together and your teachers are there to help so don't be afraid to reach out to them and ask for help when you need it. Once you fall behind, it is very challenging to catch back up.
Example Schedule:
Wake up: 7:30
Breakfast 7:45- 8:20
School: 9:00- 11:00
Break: 11:00-11:30
School: 11:30- 12:15
Lunch: 12:15- 12:45
School: 12:45- 2:30
Exercise: 2:30- 3:00
School: 3:00- 4:30
Free time (finish school)- 4:30- 6:00
Dinner: 6:00- 7:00
Family time- 7:00- 9:00
Free time/ bed: 9:00- whenever (I suggest going to bed by 11:30)
This schedule can vary on the day and the amount of school work.
Happy learning!
Below are some helpful links to also help you plan your day:
https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newHTE_07.htm
https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-create-a-daily-routine-2648007