Ten Strategies for Combating Procrastination

  • Take control of your study environment - study in a place that is free from distractions.
  • Make a "TO DO" list.
  • Establish a routine.
  • Self-bribery - give yourself rewards. I can watch TV for a half an hour once I finish reading these 10 pages
  • Divide and Conquer - break larger tasks into smaller units - thereby eliminating how daunting the task seems. As you complete each small unit, move on to the next one. Before you know it, you'll be done
  • Use a planner for time management.
  • Use the 10-minute rule. When you have trouble getting started, select a specific task, such as three pages of reading or "I'm going to spend 10 minutes reading without stopping." At the end of 10 minutes, see how much you've done. Keep working in 10-minute blocks until you are satisfied with what you have done."
  • When you finish studying, do one more thing before you quit. Start another assignment; then you will be ahead when you sit down to study again.
  • Carry flashcards, notes and other study materials with you so that you can make better use of your open time. Recite and review your notes while waiting for the bus, riding in a car, standing in line, etc.
  • Do two things at once. Combine recitation and review with another activity. Recite terms and definitions while you are jogging or having your lunch.

List created by Annie Passarello, GTA, Academic Success Center