Studying Smart: Create a Weekly Schedule

Plan for Real Life

Be realistic about what you can accomplish each day. For example, make sure you have gaps of time between activities to allow for travel, eating, and down time.

Give Yourself Enough Time

Budget at least 1 hour of homework for every hour of class time. If you have a 3-credit class, schedule at least 3 hours of homework time each week for that class alone.

Plan Out Study Times

Plan blocks of time when you can study and work on assignments. Then figure out what work you need to do in each time slot.

Plan for Fun Time

Leave time in your schedule for things that you enjoy to do, and don't forget to schedule downtime. Give yourself the okay to hang out with friends and watch the latest season on Netflix. Just remember to schedule in the time so you know how many hours you have free, and stick to it. 

Don't Over Commit

Try to avoid cramming you schedule with activities and tasks. Leave some time for flexibility. And remember, you are not going to be able to predict all of the unexpected events that will happen throughout the week.

Spread Things Out

Try to spread your activities without fixed times across the week so they are not all concentrated on already busy days. 

Steps to Creating a Weekly Schedule 

1. Find a weekly schedule that works for you.
   • This can be either on your phone or computer, in a planner, or a combination of both.
2. Add your classes into the schedule.
3. Add other commitments and appointments that are already scheduled for the week.
   • This includes appointments, practice schedules, and work schedules.
4. Add in dedicated study or homework time.
   • Spread these study blocks across the week instead of on busy days.
5. Add the specific class work you need to do for the week into the study periods.
6. Add activities that need to be done, but don't have a set time.
   • Try to spread these out across the week so they are not all concentrated into one day.
7. Add other activities that add balance to your life.
   • Schedule in time to hang out with friends, go to the gym, or just do nothing.