“Next semester I’ll do everything differently” – every student has probably thought that at some point and yet it usually doesn’t happen. Self-organization is one of the things you should learn during your studies. However, many leave university without incorporating this important skill into their repertoire.
Admittedly, the university gives you very little input on this topic. We will therefore give you three tips below that will help you get your studies under control and not get bogged down.
Tip 1: Small goals instead of big projects
At the end of the semester the exams wait and then the billing takes place. Almost all students stress about the exams and are nervous until the last day because they don't know what to expect and whether they will pass the exam.
The big project (getting a good grade or just getting through) can definitely be divided into various smaller intermediate goals . Then the whole thing suddenly doesn't look so threatening anymore.
A good way to record your goals, set deadlines and track your own progress is a so-called bullet journal . This is a kind of notebook and calendar in one. Such a bullet journal should be kept by hand in order to create a contrast to everyday digital life. It is best to establish a fixed routine so that new entries are made regularly.
Tip 2: Build a network
If you don't make any contacts at university and prefer to be a lone fighter, you'll have a hard time. It can easily happen that you miss a lecture, don't understand a certain aspect or simply need a buddy to motivate you to stay on track.
Your network doesn't have to be the same as your circle of friends. There may be people with whom you don't share common interests, but with whom you can learn perfectly together. Try to find out which fellow students improve your performance and who tend to prevent you from achieving your best.
Tip 3: Always stay realistic
Panic is never a good strategy when studying - neither in the learning phase nor in the exam . However, it is unavoidable that at some point the thoughts “I can’t do this!” and “What if I fail?” will run through your head.
In this context, the only advice we can give is to always remain realistic and reflect on your own situation properly. In the rarest of cases, panic is really appropriate; it only ensures that you can no longer focus.
You don't have to know everything to pass an exam and you shouldn't spend all night trying to catch up on the material. Don't think about the worst-case scenario, but always try to assess your situation realistically and make decisions based on this.
