Heading back to school? Here are 7 tips to smash the new term or semester!

The bell is on countdown to ring and you are… still enjoying your school holiday or university break sleep-ins. Getting back into the swing of school and study can be a challenge, no matter your age. It’s a lot more pleasant to have a day lounging on the couch, after all. But it is now time to grab out those notebooks, open up your laptop, and dive into study. 

If you are struggling with feeling focused, we have gathered our top 7 productivity tips for back to school. 

1. Create a Sleep Routine

While you still have a few days of holidays left, it is a good idea to start fixing your sleep patterns. Practice going to sleep earlier, and waking up earlier. It helps if you choose the same time to go to bed, and wake up. This will help your body get into the routine, and ensure that you don’t feel too groggy on that first morning back in class. It also helps to practise healthy sleep hygiene. Avoid screens before bed, and opt for reading a book instead. 

2. Get Exercise

Regular movement is one of the key factors to feeling more focused in class and during study. When you spend lots of time sitting, you will start to feel restless. It’s important to release that pent up energy so that you can avoid that bouncing knee. Regular exercise can help promote concentration, problem solving, and help you focus on your learning. Jump on PriceMe to compare at home workout equipment such as a treadmill, exercise bike, and weights. 

3. Create a Study Schedule

Setting a study or homework schedule will help you, or your kids, stay organised through the term or semester. Set aside certain times of the day or week where you will complete homework and study. This will help you create a habit and stay consistent. 

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4. Fast Internet

Getting connected to the right broadband plan is crucial to your productivity. If you are having to deal with buffering and lagging, you will experience growing frustration and will be less likely to focus on the tasks at hand. If you live in a busy household, such as a flat of other students who often study from home, you will likely need a fast fibre plan. Jump on Broadband Compare to compare the different fibre plans available to you and switch to one that fits your budget and delivers more value for your hard-earned money. 

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5. Set a Timer

The Pomodoro is touted as an effective way to get work done more efficiently, while rewarding yourself with small breaks. Set a timer for 15-20 minutes, and work without checking your phone or other distractions until the time goes off. Then reward yourself with a 5 minute break. Repeat this cycle 4 times, and then allow yourself a longer break, such as a walk around the block. 

6. Positive Reinforcement

If you are a parent, you can encourage your child to work through their homework with positive reinforcement. Offer them praise for completing a worksheet and let them enjoy half an hour of their favourite show, or some play time. If you are a student, you can reward yourself whenever you complete a study task. Read one chapter of your textbook? Go for a short walk. Finished that essay? Enjoy your favourite takeout. Giving yourself something to look forward to after you complete a task will keep you motivated and pressing onward. 

7. Learn the Art of Multitasking

As a student, you can always try to save time by multitasking. But it’s important to do it the right way. Could you watch a lecture while you fold laundry? Or listen to one while you go for a walk around the block? 

Further Reading: 

Tips for Working and Studying from Home Productivity

Back to School Prep: 5 Things to Do Before the First Day

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