Time Management
In this pod Dr Roger Dawkins introduces some of his top tips and strategies for doing the big uni juggle – classes, assignments, work, family, leisure and social life. You’ll learn about prioritising and scheduling, and about the magical PURPLE method for effective time management.
Arts/Communications students have less contact time than students in other disciplines but this doesn’t mean doing less. Unlike the sciences, which often require a lot of on-site lab time, when Arts/Communications students aren’t in formal class they are expected to read, write, practise their craft, research and undertake work experience. If you are a full-time student then you need to commit to approximately 38 hours of study (including formal class time) each week to pass. To put it another way, each 10-credit point unit of study requires 8-10 hours of focused time per week.
Knowing how to manage your time well is crucial to making sure you meet this commitment. By taking the time to set up your calendar, schedule your class time and work, map out your deadlines, and arrange work, life and socialising, you’ll give yourself the best chance of staying on track and organised. This will make the difference between passing and failing your subjects and, importantly, it will help you avoid stress and stay well. Try not to procrastinate. Start assignments early; don’t leave them to the last minute. You’ll enjoy the process and learn far more if you give yourself the time to think through your work. Learning how to use and apply the resources in the CAL site also takes time so you’ll need to factor that in too. We suggest using the resources below to plan your days and weeks. And don’t forget to seek help early from your tutors, the Study Smart team, academic advisors and from the Wellbeing resources if you find yourself struggling.
FOLLOW-UP READING
Quizzes
Everyone loves a quiz! Check how much you know (and don’t know) about your time management skills.
How effective are your time management skills?
Self-management survey
Time Management and Study Resources
Scheduling your time
Maximise your productivity
Goal setting 101
Assignment timeline
Assignment calculator
Daily planner template
Weekly planner template