University studies require more independent learning outside of class and lab instruction. Learn to take charge of your schedule and make the best use of your study time.

• Use your course outlines or syllabi
  • For each course, add tests, assignments, and weekly tasks (e.g., problem sets or readings) to a semester calendar with BU important dates for the term
• Know where you are spending your time
  • Use a weekly time log or an interactive time log to estimate your time
• Plan out your priorities. What needs to be accomplished today, this week, this month?
  • Identify goals for each course. Explore these suggestions for setting smart goals
• Break tasks into manageable chunks: divide and conquer
• Set reasonable time limits to improve focus and concentration. Use distributed practice
• Make a term and weekly schedule for the term.
  • Put the most demanding tasks in your most productive time
  • Be generous when estimating the time needed for tasks
  • Leave open spaces or ‘down time’ every day for the unexpected
    • Don’t write in everything! Too much detail can become a form of procrastination
• Explore evaluating your time troubles for suggestions for studying with family and work responsibilities
• Choose study spaces that match the task demands. On campus spaces include:
  • John E. Robbins library hours
  • Under the main dining room by the Office of International Activities for tables and group work
  • The comfy couches with charging stations down the hall from Student Services
  • The welcoming Indigenous Peoples’ Centre next to the Evans Theatre
  • The quiet study rooms on the 2^nd to 4^th floors of Clark Hall
  • The student lounges in the basement of the Music and Education buildings