Nobody likes rushing to finish assignments. As a student with an arts background, my assessments have been largely coursework-based. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by coursework, you’re not alone. Here are some mistakes I’ve made in the past, along with the tips and tricks that have helped me learn to manage my coursework and get better grades.
My previous approach
Back in my pre-university days, I was really disorganised and couldn’t quite grasp the urgency of a deadline. With no one to keep me accountable, this led to late nights and work that didn’t meet my expectations. I blocked out work time in my calendar but often forgot to check it, and instead ended up doing my coursework spontaneously. Without proper planning, this ate into my free time.
Keep a calendar
I now keep a highly personalised calendar with color-coded classes, making it easier to prepare my coursework for that day. I use Google Calendar to stay organised and number each week of the semester so I know how close I am to deadlines. To make sure I don’t forget, I set my calendar to always open with my browser.
Find a productive environment
Finding a good place to work starts with understanding what your distractions are. Is it music, crowds or lights? Or is there somewhere that motivates you? Personally, I love doing my coursework in the animation lab because working with my course mates and exchanging ideas with them is what motivates me.
Managing breaks
It’s also important to know how to take a good break. Like most people, I like to scroll on my phone, but that often overwhelms me further, especially when my course involves a lot of screen time. Going for a walk is a great way to de-stress – I like going to Albert Park, which is only a 10-minute walk from campus, to enjoy the greenery and lake full of birds.
Of course, university is not just about coursework. For more advice or to see what university life could look like at Teesside, check out our other blog posts.
By Kathleen
