Now that the first or second year of university is coming to an end, many students are taking a closer look at their productivity systems. Balancing social, academic, professional, and personal lives is a challenging task, but with the right tools, it is possible to simplify your routine. This post is focused on the key tips and steps to follow to become the productive student you want to be.

The top three tools for your student life are actions, information, and visualization. To keep your tasks organized, use an online to-do list program like Todoist. This app is easy to use, compatible with various devices, and has collaborative features ideal for team projects. Evernote, on the other hand, is a comprehensive data storage service that allows you to keep all your notes, images, recordings, and other resources in one place. The app is accessible on smartphones and can be used to take class notes and share them with others. Finally, a calendar is an essential tool for keeping track of events, classes, birthdays, and more. Try using Google Calendar, which can be synced with your school calendar and is also user-friendly.

To get the most out of these tools, follow these three steps. First, keep your tasks focused and achievable by breaking them down into smaller, measurable actions. For instance, instead of writing “make a cake,” set smaller actions like “buy ingredients” and “prepare oven and equipment.” Second, use Evernote to organize and create useful information for classes, events, and other projects. Finally, import key events and details into your calendar, but avoid general information that may become overwhelming.

To become a proactive and productive student, here are some additional steps you can take. First, take a break from textbooks and try getting involved in a society or club that interests you. Becoming the president or VP of a club can help you expand your leadership, teamwork, and public speaking skills and make valuable connections. Second, focus on reading books that will improve your personal development and skills. Look for books that can help you refine your career path or general competencies. Third, model yourself after proactive and driven students in your university. Find those students who have achieved more than just academic results and seek their coaching.

Finally, kill social media distractions. Try using a Newsfeed Killer to help you stop getting distracted by what people are up to on Facebook. During coursework and exam time, avoiding social media can be a big help in maintaining focus. Finally, avoid inbox clutter and transfer everything you need to Evernote.

In conclusion, organizing your student life can seem like a daunting task, but it is achievable with the right tools and steps. Start by adopting a simple system for actions, information, and visualization. Focus on achievable goals, useful information, and key events. Take proactive steps to improve your professional, leadership, and other skills. And try avoiding social media distractions and inbox clutter. With a disciplined approach, you can become the productive student you want to be.