Being regular and persistent in whatever one is doing is the basic component of time management. In the case of civil services preparation, this would entail the following attributes: following a proper plan and schedule, making notes regularly, practicing daily, solving test papers at regular intervals., devoting adequate time to each phase of the exam as well as to the individual papers.

 

Time management instills traits like discipline, confidence. It helps in completing the syllabus on time and aspirants can get enough time for revision. It helps in devoting time to self-improvement and extra-curricular activities. An aspirant who is consistent with the above-mentioned tasks will not come under undue pressure in real exam conditions. HOWEVER, truth is that it is easier said than done. This is a consequence of various factors like self-doubt, lack of self-confidence, and lack of motivation. This leads to tasks being piled up resulting in mental breakdown.

 

Having self-belief in one’s capabilities is very important. The aspirant should try to make the preparation joyful and interesting. Otherwise, they will soon lose interest and start postponing things. Have a well-prepared plan. This should be created considering various factors. Every aspirant has a different learning style. Rather than aping plans of toppers, it is beneficial to prepare own plan.

 

What is time management?

As our energy and money, time is a finite resource and as such, it needs to be effectively managed. Time management is about planning and controlling the amount of time you spend on specific tasks.

 

Some of the important skills students need to manage time effectively include:

 

1. Goal-setting

It’s almost impossible to use time well if you don’t know what to do with it. Aspirants can benefit from having short- and long-term goals.

 

2. Prioritization

By assessing what needs to be achieved within a given timeframe, tasks can be rated according to their importance. Setting priorities for each day, week, month, and year can help aspirants accomplish their goals. It also helps to ensure activities that are vitally important but not urgent – such as personal devotions, adequate sleep, and exercise – are given precedence.

 

3. Organization

Once priorities are set, it’s important to have a plan for getting them done. Some people are naturally well-organized, and others need some help. Strategies like keeping a tidy study environment help.

 

4. Managing stress

Nobody performs at their peak under excessive stress. Getting enough sleep and exercising are all great ways to keep stress at bay, and actually make learning more efficient.

 

How does time management help in learning?

• Effective time management allows students to complete more in less time because their attention is focused and they’re not wasting time on distractions (such as social media, for example.
• Efficient use of time also reduces stress, as students tick off items from their to-do list.
• It can also provide a sense of achievement from fulfilling goals.
• Furthermore, by using time efficiently, aspirants can complete their work on time, stay engaged with their learning, and have more time free for pursuing activities that are important to them, such as sports, hobbies, and spending time with friends and family.
• Good time management allows students to make the most of their abilities and enjoy the satisfaction of accomplishment.

 

Time management tips:

• Schedule important activities and free time, too. You can even set deadlines a few days before actual due dates to allow a margin for emergencies.
• Create a master schedule.
• Start daily assignments early – leaving assignments until the last minute is stressful.
• Avoid multi-tasking – divided attention is an inefficient way to learn. Focus on one task at a time for maximum productivity.
• Reduce distractions – put away unnecessary devices such as mobile phones, and switch off social media notifications. Distractions can also come from internal feelings such as hunger or tiredness, so ensure they’re getting adequate sleep and have snacks and water on hand.
• Take regular breaks – working on something for too long can lead to lost focus. Short breaks every half hour or so can help them to recharge.
• Set time limits – such as “finish Buddhism chapter by 3.30 pm”. This prevents tasks from eating into the time allocated for other activities.
• Keep a clock placed visibly before you – to stay aware of the current time.
• Avoid perfectionism and fussing over unimportant details.
• Use your downtime well. This tip should be used with wisdom and moderation though, as time for relaxation and rest is also essential.
• Reward achievement – when you accomplished important goals, don’t forget to celebrate. Possibilities include TV time, a small treat.

 

Is it possible to be over obsessive about time management?

Yet it’s also possible for obsessive time management to be counterproductive. Continually searching for ways to use time more effectively can leave you feeling more anxious and stressed. A more serious consequence occurs when people lose sight of their real motivations.

 

Initially, aspirants can begin by taking small steps, setting smaller targets be it in terms of the syllabus to be covered or the number of sittings or the time to be devoted. Once they develop the confidence they can gradually increase the limits. Following proper sources and having proper guidance is another important aspect. Fixing self-accountability is very important. The best solution lies in self-introspection and then taking corrective measures rather than blaming and complaining on factors that are outside one’s control. Proper time management will not only help the aspirants ace the civil service exam but also help them lead a life of contentment and happiness!!!