Top 10 Prioritisation Tips to Help Students Tackle Tasks Effectively

Managing your workload can be challenging, especially when you have multiple tasks competing for your attention. However, learning to prioritise your work effectively can make a significant difference in your academic success.

Prioritisation is a valuable skill which will also benefit you in all your future endeavours.

Here are our top ten practical tips to help you prioritise your tasks and stay on top of your workload.

1. Organise Your Workspace

Before you can do anything else, you need to make sure your workspace is tidy and in order. Minimising clutter will also reduce stress. Use folders, binders and digital tools to store your notes and assignments so you can easily access them.

2. Create a To-Do List

The next step to prioritising tasks is to create a to-do list of all the assignments you need to complete. Include deadlines and other relevant information. This clear overview of your upcoming tasks will help you organise your time more efficiently.

3. Identify Important Tasks

Now that you can see what needs to be done, it’s time to start prioritising your tasks. Look at things like urgency, impact and deadlines. Some tasks will require immediate attention while others can be put off. Consider how much research will be required and the resources you have available when ordering your tasks.

4. Use Organisational Tools

Tools like a prioritisation matrix can be very helpful for assessing tasks. A matrix allows you to sort tasks using a defined set of variables. They can be complex or very simple depending on your needs. Also, make good use of digital tools like phone notifications to keep track of tasks, or if you prefer, stick to physical calendars and planners to prioritise your workload.

5. Set Realistic Goals

When setting goals people have a tendency to be overly optimistic about what they can achieve. Breaking down large projects into manageable tasks will help you stay on track. Give yourself more time than you think you need to avoid what scientists call the Planning Fallacy.

6. Remove Distractions

In order to tackle tasks more effectively, it’s essential to identify and minimise any potential distractions in your environment. We recommend turning off your notifications while you study and finding a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed. Use website blockers if you can’t resist the temptation to scroll while you’re supposed to be working.

7. Avoid Multitasking

You might feel like you achieve more by multitasking, particularly when you have competing priorities, but this is false. The truth is that it takes more time than if you just focused on each task individually. Studies have found that deep focus can lead to a whopping 500% increase in productivity.

8. Try Time-Management Strategies

If you’ve tried all these steps and are still struggling, or if you just want to increase your efficiency, time-management strategies can be very beneficial. One popular strategy is The Pomodoro Technique which requires participants to work in 25-minute intervals, followed by short breaks. This technique enhances focus and helps students maintain mental clarity and motivation.

9. Learn to Say No

When striving to meet your commitments and fulfil your priorities, sometimes you will need to turn down requests and invitations. Learning to prioritise involves more than completing tasks in order of importance. You also need to have the resilience and self-discipline to say no.

10. Review and Adjust

Finally, you need to be flexible when it comes to meeting your priorities. Deadlines can change and new priorities may arise. Regularly review your priorities and be willing to adjust your plans as needed. Learning to adapt to unforeseen circumstances is a valuable skill that will serve you well in your academic and professional life.

The Tutor Doctor Difference

A tutor can assist students in assessing their priorities and in developing routines and habits they need to excel at school.

Our X Skills program is designed specifically to assist students with foundational skills such as time management, prioritisation and focus. It’s ideal for primary and secondary students who are not achieving their potential due to deficits in these areas.