Process: Time Management for Studying

1. This is my process for managing study time and is open to refinement.
2. Create a small list of goals. (example: learn the subject material in a class, or learn to read and speak a specific language)
3. Derive some small beginner tasks from the goals and compile them into a list.
4. Move the "must do" tasks to the top of the list, and move the "want to do" tasks to the bottom of the list.
5. Prioritize the list of tasks. (example: a class with a grade of "B" might take priority over a class with a grade of "A")
6. Allocate fixed chunks of time (25-35 minutes) for each task, breaking the tasks into smaller chunks if needed.
7. Identify free time in the next day and schedule these time chunks into that free time.
   • Start by scheduling only 1 to 2 chunks as you start out until the habit is formed.
   • Schedule breaks (5-10 minutes) between these chunks.
   • If there are two time bound chunks from the same task in a day, ensure they are not scheduled consecutively and that other chunks are inserted between them.
8. In the following calendar day, follow the schedule.
   • Log your efforts and time spent for future review if needed.
   • While working the tasks, remove all distractions
   • Learn to say "no" when people raise distractions.
   • Avoid multitasking.
9. At the end of the day, repeat the process listed above, up to step 7.