Time Management Strategies Handout

Use this handout to learn key strategies for managing your time effectively. Read each section, consider the examples, and use the space provided to plan how you will apply each strategy.

1. Goal Setting

What it is: Defining clear, specific, and achievable targets for what you want to accomplish.

Example: "Finish math homework by 4:00 PM" is more actionable than "Do math homework."

Your Application:

• Write one short-term goal (today or this week):

• Write one long-term goal (this month or semester):

2. Batching

What it is: Grouping similar tasks together and completing them in one focused block.

Example: Answer all emails at once, then switch to writing a report without interruptions.

Your Application:

• List 2–3 similar tasks you can batch:

• When will you schedule this batching session?

3. Time Blocking

What it is: Reserving specific chunks of time on your calendar for each task or activity.

Example: Block 3:00–3:30 PM for reading, 3:30–4:00 PM for review, etc.

Your Application:

• Choose one day and outline at least three time blocks:

4. Prioritizing

What it is: Deciding which tasks are most urgent and important, then tackling those first.

Example: Use the Eisenhower Matrix (Urgent/Important, Not Urgent/Important, etc.).

Your Application:

• List 4–6 tasks you need to do soon:

• Mark each as Urgent (U) or Important (I):

5. Breaks & Rewards

What it is: Scheduling short breaks and small rewards to stay motivated and prevent burnout.

Example: After 25 minutes of work, take a 5-minute break—enjoy a snack or stretch.

Your Application:

• Choose your work-to-break ratio (e.g., 25:5, 45:10):

• Decide on a simple reward for completing a task:

Reflection

1. Which two strategies will you focus on this week?

1. How will you remind yourself to stick to these strategies?

Good luck putting these strategies into practice! Keep this handout handy for reference whenever you plan your time.

Priority Matrix Template

Use this template to categorize your tasks by urgency and importance. Follow the steps below to map out and prioritize what you need to do.

Step 1: List Your Tasks

List at least 4–6 tasks you need to complete soon:

Step 2: Categorize Tasks

Place each task into one of the four quadrants below based on its urgency and importance. You can write multiple tasks in each quadrant.

Reflection Questions

1. Which quadrant contains the tasks you will tackle first, and why?

1. How will using this matrix help you plan your time more effectively?

Keep this template handy when planning your day or week to stay focused on what truly matters!

Personal Schedule Worksheet

Use this worksheet to map out your tasks into specific time slots and plan your week. Be realistic with your time estimates and include breaks to stay energized.

Part 1: Daily Schedule

Fill in one day’s schedule below. Block out time for your classes, homework, activities, and breaks.

Feel free to adjust time slots to fit your personal routine.

Part 2: Weekly Overview

Identify your top 2–3 priorities or appointments for each day of this week.

Monday:

Tuesday:

Wednesday:

Thursday:

Friday:

Saturday:

Sunday:

Part 3: Reflection

1. Which time of day do you feel most productive? How will you use that information when scheduling tasks?

1. What will you do to handle unexpected events or interruptions in your schedule?

Keep this worksheet handy to check your plan each day and adjust as needed. Good luck managing your time effectively!