By CHRISTIAN FRANKLIN
Opinion Editor
Procrastination is a common struggle for many college students, often leading to last-minute cramming, missed deadlines, and unnecessary stress.
However, overcoming procrastination is possible with the right strategies.
Here are some practical tips that can help students stay on track and boost productivity.
Break Tasks Into Smaller Chunks
Large assignments or projects can feel overwhelming, which often leads to putting them off. Instead of focusing on the big picture, break tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
For example, if you have a 10-page research paper due, set goals to write 1-2 pages a day or research one section at a time.
This makes the task feel less daunting and allows for steady progress.
Create a Schedule or To-Do List
One of the easiest ways to avoid procrastination is to plan ahead..
Use a planner or a digital calendar to set deadlines for assignments and exams.
Break down your study schedule into daily or weekly tasks, ensuring that you are staying on top of all of your coursework.
By checking off tasks as you complete them, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment that keeps you motivated.
Eliminate Distractions
Social media, texting, and other distractions are some of the biggest culprits in procrastination. To improve focus, create a study environment free from distractions.
Consider using apps like “Focus@Will” for background concentration music or “Forest” to limit phone usage. If possible, find a quiet spot in the library or a study room where you can concentrate.
Set Realistic Goals
Avoid the trap of setting overly ambitious goals that can be discouraging when unmet. Instead, set smaller, realistic goals that you can achieve in a short time. For instance, instead of aiming to study for an entire afternoon, plan for a focused 30-minute session followed by a short break.
These manageable intervals can keep you from feeling burned out and help you stay on track.
Use the “5-Minute Rule”
Sometimes, the hardest part of overcoming procrastination is simply starting.
The “5-minute rule” encourages you to commit to working for just five minutes.
Once you get started, you’ll often find that you want to continue working.
This simple trick can make it easier to tackle larger tasks without feeling overwhelmed.
Hold Yourself Accountable
It can be easy to put things off when there is no one holding you accountable. Try studying with a friend or sharing your goals with a classmate.
Alternatively, consider using an online study group or a productivity buddy to check in with.
Accountability can create a sense of responsibility and provide the motivation to stay committed to your tasks.