Organisation is the key to success. If you want to get your university journey off to a good start and go on to leave with the results that you deserve, it’s important to develop a study schedule from the beginning and stick with it throughout.

Making enough time for your studies alongside other commitments, such as part-time work and extra-curricular activities can be challenging. However, I’ve found that these tried and tested top tips should help you to feel more organised with regards to your studies, while still having time to enjoy the other aspects of university life.

Start by writing a list

On a Sunday evening, I like to jot down everything that needs to be done in the following week, making sure to include all lectures, shifts at work, appointments and other activities. I also include things that I’d like to be able to do as well, such as the odd night out or meal with friends.

Prioritise the list

I then work out which of the things on the list are a priority and which can be skipped. For example, if there’s an exam coming up, more time will need to be dedicated to revision and less time to this week’s pub quiz. Remember to just limit social events though, don’t cut them out completely.

Get yourself an academic diary

This is something that I’ve found very useful. Academic diaries are more practical for students than regular diaries as the pages coincide with the academic year. Keep it on you at all times and make a note of any deadlines and exam dates so that you don’t forget them.

Sleep well

Getting enough sleep plays a big part in productivity. After the first few weeks of university, I found that swapping the all nighters for early nights and early mornings led to much more focused study sessions.

Eat well and stay hydrated

While you may be tempted to snack on junk food and eat ready meals everyday, it’s important to stay healthy and hydrated. I’ve found easy and healthy recipes online in the past and cooking or baking can be a productive break from studying.

Avoid procrastination

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and repeat. I’ve found that while studying, social media and anything remotely distracting becomes a whole lot more interesting. Try to limit your time on these sites and you’ll gradually want to check them less and less. I’ve hidden my phone in a kitchen cupboard before and it worked a treat…

Keep active

In order to clear your head between study sessions or lectures, a quick exercise routine can keep you focused and full of energy. Starting the day with a short run leaves me bursting with motivation.

Reward yourself

Be sure to treat yourself every now and then. I’ve noticed that during a long week full of lectures or even an intense hour of revision, having something to look forward to really helps motivation levels. Catch up on some TV that you enjoy, order a takeaway or chill with friends. You deserve it!