How to Build a Study Schedule

If you’ve got multiple deadlines or exams in a short period of time, you might be feeling overwhelmed at the prospect of studying multiple subjects at the same time. But making sure you get all your work done is achievable—if you can get organized and stick to a study schedule.

Step One: Figure out what needs to be done. What papers or projects will be due on what dates? When are your midterms or final exams? Are there any other commitments you have during this time, such as a part-time job, volunteering or family obligations? Mark all of them down on a calendar that shows you your entire month at a glance.

Step Two: Do you need to get other people involved?
Anything that impacts other people will be more difficult to plan, as you won’t just be thinking about your own schedule but other people’s. So think about who you’ll need to ask to complete all your work—are there group projects coming up you’ll need to complete? Do you need additional help or a tutor that you’ll need to employ? Does a midterm require a one-on-one meeting with an instructor? It’s best to put those things on your calendar first.

Step Three: How much work will you need to do?
Figuring out how much you should be working and revising is important. Figure out the scope of the quiz or test you’re taking—is it covering everything you’ve learned so far, or is it just focusing on a few chapters of coursework? If you have a paper due, how long is it—and how long have other papers that length taken you? Jot down how much time you’ll need for each step. 

Step Four: What are your weak spots?
Are you struggling in any of your subjects? Are you in any group projects with less-than-enthusiastic members? You may need to devote more time to those subjects to make sure that you’ll be successful.

Step Five: Build your calendar.
Review your month-long calendar and ensure other commitments are in place. Look for openings in your calendar when you can work on your assignments. Schedule time with yourself to revise and work on projects in a way that works for you and ensures that everything is completed by the course’s deadlines.