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Time management without stress? Here are 5 simple methods for convenience that focus on quality over quantity. From the 3-task rule to the zen-to-done method — be smart and relaxed and productive!
Between lectures, homework, side jobs and (hopefully) an active social life, life as a student often feels like a chaotic juggling of tasks. During the Zoom seminar, you try to take notes, answer WhatsApp messages and read the script at the same time — and in the end, you've started everything but didn't get anything right.
This is where batching comes in, a method that is as simple as it is ingenious. With batching, you can better organize your student life, work more focused and still find time for Netflix, friends, and pizza. Sounds too good to be true? Then read on!
Batching means bundling similar tasks and completing them in one go. Instead of constantly switching back and forth between lecture material, emails and household chores, you plan fixed time blocks in which you only dedicate yourself to one task. The goal: less distraction, more focus and, at the end of the day, the feeling that you've really achieved something.
Why is this a game changer, especially for students? It's simple: Your everyday life is packed with different requirements. Batching helps you structure this mix better, use your energy more specifically and keep track of things.
1. Less stress through clear structures
Your to-do list suddenly becomes more manageable when you combine similar tasks. Instead of wandering around haphazardly, you know exactly what to do in your current block.
2. You learn smarter, not harder
Batching helps you make learning blocks more efficient. Instead of jumping wildly between subjects all day, you focus on just one course or topic in one block. Your brain loves this kind of order — it hangs more and makes you feel less overwhelmed.
3. Distractions have fewer opportunities
If you set yourself time slots in which you only focus on one task, your mobile phone, TikTok, etc. will have a break. Goodbye multitasking!
Step 1: Analyze tasks
Write down any upcoming to-dos. This includes university tasks such as preparing lectures, studying, homework and group projects, but also everyday topics such as shopping, cooking and cleaning.
Step 2: Categorize tasks
Break down your tasks into useful categories, for example:
• Learn and follow up: read scripts, create flashcards, do exercises.
• Homework and projects: Research, write, correct literature.
• Organization: check emails, plan deadlines, write down to-dos.
• Household: washing, cleaning, shopping.
Step 3: Create 3 time blocks
Plan fixed time slots for your tasks. example:
• 8-10 a.m.: Study for the math exam.
• 10-11 a.m.: Emails and organizational work.
• 11-12 p.m.: Read social science scripts.
Step 4: Discipline and breaks
Stay focused on your block. Use techniques such as the Pomodoro method: 25 minutes of work, 5 minute break — and after four rounds, a longer break.
• Learning session batching
Instead of learning five subjects in one day, focus on one topic per block. For example: math in the morning, biology in the afternoon.
• Household batching
Collect small everyday tasks and complete them in one go. Example: Monday is a “household batch,” in which you do laundry, shop and clean — all at once, instead of a little bit every day.
• Email batching
Only check your email and WhatsApp messages twice a day, such as in the morning and evening. So you'll be less distracted by small things.
1. Plan your week in advance
Block fixed times on your calendar, such as for lecture follow-up or exam preparation.
2. Keep your phone away
Nothing kills your focus faster than an Insta notification. When batching, your phone stays silent and out of sight.
3. Leave room for flexibility
Sometimes things take longer or a friend needs help. That's okay! Plan enough buffers so that you can react flexibly.
4. Use tools and apps
Apps like “Google Calendar,” “Trello,” or “Notion” can help you plan your blocks clearly.
Batching is perfect for students who are often overwhelmed by deadlines and tasks. It creates clarity in chaos, saves you time and makes you feel more productive at the end of the day. No more multitasking, no more wild jumping back and forth — just focus on work and get off work earlier.
The best thing about it? You can adapt batching so that it fits perfectly with your individual study routine. So why not try it out? Your next homework will thank you—and so will your Netflix account.
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