Skip to Main Content

Study Skills

Tips and tricks for being a better student

Time Management

An important and challenging skill to develop is time management. This will typically need adjustment throughout the semester due to deadlines and the rhythm of a semester, like midterms and finals. 

Getting Organized

You need a calendar. Possibly, multiple calendars. 

Calendars and College

College life can get busy fast. You might be juggling classes, homework, work, friends, and family—all at once. Using a calendar can help you stay organized and make the most of your time.

This guide will show you:

  • Why using a calendar matters
  • How to plan for your semester and week
  • Tips to manage your time and stay balanced
Why You Need a Calendar

In college, you have more freedom—and more responsibility. It’s easy to lose track of time or fall behind. A good schedule can help you stay on top of your work, enjoy your free time, and reduce stress.

Students who plan ahead often do better in school. They use their study time wisely and feel more prepared for exams and assignments. Planning doesn’t have to be complicated—just start with a simple calendar and use it every day.

You can use a paper planner, wall calendar, or digital app like Google Calendar or iCal. This link talks about both calendars so you can choose what fits your style best.

Semester Planning

A semester calendar helps you see the big picture. You can spot busy weeks before they happen and plan around them.

How to Plan Your Semester:

  • Review your class syllabi. Write down all exam dates, assignment deadlines, and big projects.
  • Add important personal events like work shifts, holidays, or trips.
  • Work backward from each due date. Plan when to start your research, drafts, and final edits.
  • Update your calendar as new dates come up—like appointments, meetings, or campus events.

Tip: If you like paper, print a one-page semester calendar and hang it where you’ll see it every day. If you prefer digital tools, set reminders on your phone or computer to stay on track.

Need help getting started? Visit the Academic Support Center to get help building your semester plan.

Weekly Planning

Once your semester is mapped out, focus on your week. A weekly plan helps you balance daily tasks, study time, and personal activities.

Steps for Weekly Planning:

  • Pick one time each week (15–30 minutes) to plan your upcoming week.
  • Mark fixed times like classes, work, and activities.
  • For each course, list your tasks and estimate how long each will take.
  • Block time for studying, breaks, meals, and rest.
  • Use colors or labels to tell classes and activities apart.

You can use paper planners or digital calendars with time blocks. Choose what helps you visualize your time best.

Need help? Schedule a session with an academic coach or librarian—they can help you build a schedule that works.

Tips for Making Weekly Planning Work
  • Break big tasks into smaller steps: Instead of reading 50 pages at once, read 10 pages at a time.
  • Know your best study times: Work on your hardest subjects when you’re most alert. Choose a study space that helps you focus.
  • Use breaks wisely: Take short breaks every hour to stretch or move. You’ll focus better afterward.
  • Use small moments: Review flashcards on the bus or reread notes while dinner is cooking.

Tools

The assignment planner from the University of Toronto is a great tool to help you figure out the timing of what and when you should finish the steps to get your assignment done on time, including things like research and revising. 

You can access the tool by clicking here.