Homework Routines

July 27, 2009

So how do you do your homework?

I can hear you all groaning through the computer. I am sure you are all thinking “I get out a pen and my books and just do it?

But I disagree. Think again.

Answer these questions for me:

1. Do you do the hardest or easiest subject first?

2. Do you do your favourite of most hated subject first?

3. Do you do the shortest or longest task first?

4. Do you do bits of each subject and never get anything done?

Let’s start with answer 4. If you answered YES then we have major problems. You need to finish your work and then move on to the next task. You will feel so much better and won’t have crazy unfinished jobs floating around your head.

Homework Routine Examples

There is not one way to do homework that is the best for everyone. So your answers for Questions 1 – 3 are all correct. However, I want to explain to you the psychology behind each idea, so you can choose the best routine for you.

Rank Homework based on difficulty

Start with hardest homework and move to easier homework: If you get tired doing homework then I suggest this strategy. It will mean you will be concentrating more on the homework that is most difficult for you
Start with the easiest homework: If you get discouraged, then start with the easiest homework. You will be more eager to tackle the harder homework when you see how much you have already completed.

Rank Homework based on emotion

Start with your worst subject: If you hate History then you really won’t be motivated to complete the homework. It you do this homework last then it will be harder to concentrate and then it will take more time to complete. It may be quicker if you did that ‘hated’ homework first.
Start with your favourite subject: If you find it difficult to start homework, then I would start with your favourite subject. You will be more motivated to complete this task, and then hopefully you will then keep this attitude and finish the rest of your homework

Rank Homework based on length

Start with shortest homework: Scan your diary and look at the quickest task. If you do the quickest tasks first then you will be more motivated as most of the homework should be done easily

As you can see, there is no right answer to homework.

Homework tasks for the week:

Pick a new strategy every day and try out the one that works for you. Just remember the common elements to each of the homework routines:

diary
complete homework

By the end of the week you should know which strategy works well for you.

This was Day 7 of the 30 Day Study System.

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