When you're completely swamped with homework, it's
normal to worry about the sheer quantity of things you have to do. There's
no need to freak out. You can get in control and organize assignments
by priority using a nifty to-do checklist.
Once you have a list with tasks prioritized from most to least important
it will be clear what you have to do and when you have to do it. So how
do you determine what to do first? Consider these questions:
When
is the due date?
Very simply, the sooner it's due, the sooner you should get it done.
How
much does this assignment weigh on your overall grade?
If you feel really stressed about two time-consuming assignments that are
due the same day, try to complete the one that will have a bigger effect
on your overall grade first. For example, if one task is completing a month-long
science fair experiment and the other is the weekly book review you write
for Language Arts, finish the science experiment first. You may be tempted
to complete a few smaller assignments before digging into the big one, but
that can paint you into a corner because of time constraints. If you get
a big chunk of the larger assignment done and need a break from thinking
about it, that's a good time to do a smaller, less weighty assignment. Use
your freshest energy on the bigger piece, and find time for the little stuff
in between.
How
long will the work take?
The bigger the assignment, the more wary you should be of leaving it until
the last minute. So what to do if it's Monday and you have to do a lengthy
report on a historical figure by Friday? Break up the assignment into more
manageable parts and do small sections of the report each day. Pacing yourself
allows you to complete big projects with ease while still managing your
regular nightly homework.
How strong are you in that particular subject?
If Math is your weak subject, your math homework should generally be a higher
priority. Why? Because getting it done early means you have plenty of time
to check your answers and seek help if you need it. Fight the tendency to
leave the worst for last.
Is the assignment group work or a solo project?
Always strive to contribute to group projects by setting the bar high. Do
a good job and finish your work as soon as possible you don't want
to let your group down! They are depending on you, as you're depending on
them. So show the respect you want to receive in return, and schedule your
other work for after you finish.
Where are you getting the information necessary to complete the work?
If all the information you need is on your computer, in your notes, or
from your own textbook, that's one thing. But if you know that you have
to take a trip to the library by tomorrow to ensure your research material
is available, then don't delay. Get to it ASAP!
