| The second term has started. Whatever happened last term is over and done with. You can either build on it, or if necessary, find a different way. Start in week 1 and use this brand new term to build a path to success in the end-of-year exams. |
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 | University studies can feel dizzying and overwhelming, because you have to juggle multiple modules constantly —but with the right approach, you can balance it all and thrive. Let’s explore some practical strategies for organising your study schedule, staying on top of coursework, and maintaining your well-being throughout. |
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| 1. Get to Know Your Modules• Review course outlines early. As soon as you receive your course outlines, note assessment dates (assignments, tests, exams) and any recommended reading. Knowing deadlines up front prevents last-minute panics. • Understand workload. Some modules may have only one class or tutorial a week but require heavy reading; others may have regular tests. Estimate how many hours each will demand so you can allocate time fairly. 2. Build a Master Schedule• Use a single calendar. Whether it’s a digital app (Google Calendar, Outlook) or a paper planner, keep all lectures, tutorials, and deadlines in one place. • Block out fixed commitments. Enter classes, lab sessions, and any part-time work first. Then identify your available “white space” for study. • Plan backward from deadlines. For each assignment, schedule intermediate milestones so that the final push never comes at the last minute. If you have to write an essay or a paper, it may be topic selection, research, draft, revision. For a test, you have to schedule spaced repetition sessions. 3. Prioritize and Plan Weekly• Weekly review session. Every Sunday evening, spend 15–20 minutes reviewing the coming week: 1. List top priorities in each module (e.g., “Finish chapter 3 reading,” “Draft economics essay introduction,” “Practice chemistry problem set”). 2. Rank tasks by deadline and difficulty. Tackling harder tasks when you’re freshest helps maintain momentum. • Time-blocking. Assign specific time slots for each task—for example, “Monday 8–9 PM: Maths problem set”—and treat them like immovable appointments. This structure minimizes decision fatigue. 4. Deploy Effective Study Techniques• Active learning. Don’t just read—summarize key points in your own words, teach concepts to a study partner, or create flashcards for quick reviews. • The Pomodoro Technique. Work in focused 25-minute bursts followed by 5-minute breaks. After four cycles, take a longer break (15–30 minutes). This helps sustain concentration and prevents burnout. • Group study wisely. Short, targeted group sessions can clarify doubts, but avoid letting them morph into social hangouts. Set an agenda and stick to it. Go back to our previous Thoughts for the Week for more pointers. 5. Stay Flexible and Balanced• Build in buffer time. Unexpected events happen—tech glitches, personal commitments, even surprise quizzes. Aim to leave 10–15 percent of your week unscheduled so you can absorb these without derailing everything else. • Well-being matters. Regular exercise, healthy meals, and sufficient sleep aren’t luxuries—they’re essential for cognitive performance. Treat them as non-negotiable. • Periodic check-ins. Every month, ask yourself: What’s working? What’s not? Adjust your schedule and techniques accordingly. 6. Leverage Campus Resources• Academic support. Make use of writing centres, math labs, or tutoring services your university offers. Early intervention can turn confusion into confidence. • Peer networks. Form study groups with classmates who have complementary strengths. You’ll learn from one another and keep each other accountable. • Talk to lecturers. If you’re struggling with a concept, email your lecturer or attend office hours. They’re there to help you succeed. Managing multiple modules isn’t just about hard work—it’s about working smart. By understanding your course requirements, creating a clear schedule, and applying focused study techniques, you’ll transform that overwhelming timetable into a roadmap for success. Remember, consistency beats cramming every time. Celebrate small wins—finishing a tough reading, acing a tutorial question—and you’ll build the confidence to tackle anything the academic year throws at you. Wishing you a productive week ahead—go forth, plan well, and learn boldly! From the GRAD team —————————- Did someone forward this newsletter to you? click here to subscribe. If you’d rather listen to this newsletter, click here. Click here to check out our other podcasts If you like our content, forward and share! GRAD – your guide to university success is a partnership project of Ruda Landman, StudyTrust, Van Schaik Publishers and Capitec Bank. 
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