Ways to Break the Procrastination Slump

Procrastination is a common problem for students, especially when our lives are full of things we need to get done. Whether something else might have priority, you don’t know how to start or you just don’t want to do something, procrastination can cause a lot of unnecessary stress. 

With midterms coming up it’s important to start studying or getting into good habits of studying. 

The best way to stop procrastination is to figure out why you are avoiding assignments. If it’s because you have something else you deem more important then it’s okay to push other things off, for a little while. But if it’s because you are scrolling through social media, then try making a schedule to stay focused. Try setting a deadline for yourself by breaking a larger assignment like an essay into more manageable steps.

A lot of times it’s difficult to focus if you work in your room, so try going to the library or the MUC to work on homework. Create a space with minimal distractions so you can focus on the task at hand.

Some things are just going to be put on the back burner. It might be because they’re worth fewer points and that’s fine. As long as you get done what you feel is important everything will be fine.

Don’t keep pushing off assignments because you can finish them later. It can be difficult to start on school assignments, so be sure to make time specifically for homework. Be sure to give your brain a break. Don’t spend three hours doing the same thing. Give yourself a snack break or go for a little walk if you can’t work anymore. 

In reality, it’s better to submit something rather than nothing at all. Even if you finish something and you know it can be better, just get it over with. Or if you do need just a tiny bit of time, let your professor know, more than likely they will be willing to work with you.