Do you like to get all your homework done right away, a little at a time, or do you wait until the last minute?
What works for one teen doesn’t always work for another. No matter what your style, there are ways you can study more effectively and efficiently so you can get your homework done on time.
Prioritize
The amount of homework you get will vary from week to week. No matter how much you get, though, homework should be a priority.
It’s really helpful to make a study schedule. You can do some homework in the morning, some during homeroom, and some after school. You don’t have to finish it all in one sitting. Take a break every 30 to 40 minutes and do something else so you don’t get bored. Just make sure to stick to your schedule. It also helps to get enough sleep, exercise, and eat a balanced diet.
Organize
Mark the dates of all your assignments and when they are due on your calendar in bright colors so you can visually keep track of them. Cross them off when they’re done. Also, don’t forget to write down when midterms, finals and any other exams are so you can plan time to study.
Shhhhh!
It’s tempting to turn on the TV while you’re doing homework. But you’ll get your work done much more quickly if you find a quiet place to concentrate. It’s easy to get distracted and sidetracked by TV, video games, cell phones, family, and friends. So try to find a good study spot—maybe the library, your room, or even outside. And don’t forget to turn off your cell phone!
Study Breaks
On the weekends and after school, take a break from your studies, go outside, and have some fun! Hang with friends, shoot some hoops, or go for a bike ride or a walk. Taking study breaks will make you happier—and you’ll also feel more energized when you return to your books.
Tweak schedule
If your schedule is not working for you, then change it. If you find you don’t have enough down time or time to get everything done, cut back on some of your after-school activities or think about other ways that you can rework your schedule.
Join a Study Group
If you’re working on a big project or have midterms or finals coming up, it could help to get a study partner or join a study group. You might find homework more enjoyable if you do it with friends.
Take Good Notes
When taking notes in class, make sure you can read your own handwriting. If you miss a class, ask a friend who takes good notes if you can make a copy of theirs. When it’s time to review for an exam, it’s really helpful to have organized and legible notes!
Ask for Help
If you’re struggling or even just have questions, there’s no shame in asking your teacher for some extra help. Most teachers are more than willing to stay after school and help students who are eager to learn.
Ready, Set, Go!
Now that you know what you need to do to get your homework done on time, it shouldn’t seem like such a terrible task. It should just be part of your daily routine. And just think: if you put these homework skills into place now, they could come in handy in college!
Did You Know? Studies show that students retain more information if they take a 5 to 10 minute break every 30 to 40 minutes and do some form of physical activity.
Check in quiz: Are you getting enough sleep?
This article has been reviewed by BodiMojo expert, Tara Cousineau, Ph.D.
