Hey you! Yes, you. Stop reading IDEAL magazine and hop to it; there’s work to be done. Ok, maybe first, finish this article. View it as an investment.
Everyone is guilty of procrastinating – even as we type this, we’re perusing buzzfeed lists and cute baby videos – but some of us (yep, us) are far worse than others. When there are deadlines to meet or a dissertation to finish, the looming presence of procrastination takes on a whole lot more sinister form. So, keep this in mind when you get to the bottom of our 4 IDEAL tips on finishing your dissertation.
SMART Goals
You may have done this so many times in University already, but making your own SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time-based) goals can help you earn little wins, one baby step at a time. If all you have in mind is conquering your dissertation as quickly as possible, it is going to feel like you’re never getting anywhere as the goal is too large and the finish line too distant. Not only will ticking smaller items off your list feel rewarding, you’ll probably end up getting more done with manageable, tangible objectives.
Remember, your dissertation isn’t going to be a world-changing masterpiece the first time around. But with each draft, page, paragraph, sentence and idea completed, progress is made. Keep the targets small and the eventual results will be bigger.
Rid Yourself Of Distraction
In the modern world, distractions are everywhere, and impossible to ignore. If you can’t help yourself – and let’s be honest, who can? – ensure your phone isn’t in the room or is simply switched off. That text can more than likely wait and now is not the time to check the latest snapchat filters. Try to work in a separate room to family or housemates, and if possible avoid working in bed, as this can make you feel tired and is not a productive space. Well, not for university work, anyway.
It’s All In The Planning
Having a clear plan for your essay is as important as the content itself. Clarity, brevity and coherence is essential to academic success. Looking at old dissertations can help give you structure and allow you to see where you should be heading with your dissertation. . With a fixed, structured dissertation plan, procrastination will be easier to avoid.
Schedule Writing Into Your Daily Routine
Dedicating scheduled time slots to your dissertation can help you focus and ensure you sit down and actually do something. It can also free up time, conversely, for r’n’r activities, as you’ll be more time efficient in your efforts. Use a diary, calendar or app on your phone to set times when you’re likely to be at home and at a loose(ish) end.
Once time has been allocated to academia, do not make any extra-curricular plans in the same slot. It may seem obvious, but this extra push of self-discipline can be the make or break between winners and losers. Keeping allocations light originally – 15 minute slots and working your way up, for instance – should keep procrastination at bay.
Writing a dissertation can be hard work and your peers will be in the same boat. Don’t judge yourself by anyone else’s standards as everyone works at a different pace and productivity. Good luck and close that Chrome window now!