Strategies for Tackling Homework

Strategies for Tackling Homework

Ah, homework. An inevitable, but often unenjoyable, part of school. While many students dread homework, it is an important part of your education.

What’s the Point of Homework, Anyways?

Homework should, ideally, reinforce concepts that you learn in class. In some cases, homework might prepare you for upcoming exams or test your knowledge in preparation for a reinforcement lesson or new, upcoming lessons.

Homework also serves as a tool for students to develop life skills. Some of these skills include managing time, following directions, completing assignments with a deadline, and applying knowledge.

Strategies for Tackling Homework

1. Keep the above notes in mind as you start receiving homework assignments. Think of homework as a tool to help you learn concepts and gain life skills. Keep a positive attitude. Positivity and open-mindedness can improve your outlook on homework or any daunting task.
2. Find a quiet place to work without distractions. If it’s too distracting to do work at home, try going to a library. Also, it’s very important to limit distractions like your cell phone, TV, music, or even other browsing tabs open on your computer. You will get through assignments much faster and understand concepts better without multitasking and distractions. Consider turning your phone off or at least on Do Not Disturb Mode while you are working. For your computer, try apps like Forest, Freedom, or RescueTime.
3. Prioritize your homework based on 1) what’s due first and 2) what you think will take you the most time. If you know math homework tends to take you a while, don’t wait until 10 PM to start it. You might feel the urge to put off the most unappealing tasks, but you will be more focused and capable of doing challenging work if you start it first.
4. Set a timer for each homework assignment. If you feel frozen in the face of a mountain of assignments, set a 20-25 minute timer for each one. Work without interruption until the timer goes off and stop wherever you are when it does. You might be surprised at how much you are able to get through with 20 minutes of undivided attention. Repeat until your homework is complete!
5. Make note of the questions and assignments that are especially challenging or time-consuming. Remember, homework is supposed to reinforce concepts. Let your teacher know that you are struggling and ask for additional help or clarification. Oftentimes students just want to be done with the assignment, but their lack of understanding will impact how they do on tests and even how they do for the rest of the year because concepts build on each other. Your teacher should want to see you succeed and offer advice or resources to help you complete homework more efficiently and understand the material.

Consider Hiring a Tutor

If you are still struggling with homework, consider hiring a tutor. Tutors can help you understand concepts and even offer helpful tips and tricks for specific problems. Tutors can also teach you time management and organization skills that will help you with homework and beyond.

If you’re a parent, learn how you can help your student tackle homework in this article.