12 ways to take control of your time:

• Keep a to do list. It must be thorough with estimated effort per task. This will help you select what to do and when.


• Routinely convert your to do list into an actionable schedule. Review and create each week's schedule at the end of every week.


• Expand your class timetable. Include everything you need to do each day from waking up to going to bed. Bring a copy with you everywhere.



By following time management techniques ... you won't have the need to pull an all-nighter

• Use a timer. Time up or time down whenever possible. For shorter tasks count down, but larger tasks, such as essays, are best counted up to give you flexibility and enough time to focus.


• Take breaks. Even better, take an exercise break or walk around campus, your neighborhood or move around your home. You'll return to your desk refreshed with greater concentration.


• Employ time management techniques, such as Pomodoro or the Eisenhower Method. Established techniques will provide structure and guidance when things feel out of control.


• Stick to a productive routine all through the year. You'll be better prepared to return to school or university after a semester break without feeling overwhelmed.


• Prioritize. Know what your most important task is right now and do something towards completing that task. This will reduce procrastination and help you avoid falling behind.


• Listen to your body's internal clock. If you're always exhausted after school, consider waking up a few hours earlier to do homework and assignments.


• Don't be afraid to say no. No to social events, no to the dishes if you really have an important assignment to complete, no to responding to a message on social media.


• Schedule free time. Making time for fun and showing up for it will give you a sense of urgency the day or two before. You'll feel the need to get more done when you know you have even less time for studying. You'll fun-binge less randomly as a result and feel better for it.


• Get enough sleep. Studies show we need to be well-rested for peak performance, focus and creativity. By following time management techniques and sticking to them, you won't have the need to pull an all-nighter.