Learning to Use Small Blocks of Time

One of the simplest techniques for making regular progress on the dissertation is learning how to effectively use small(er) chunks of time. A good strategy is to make a to-do list of the next 30 items that need to be completed. Aim to make this list as detailed as possible (and feel free to list only 15 items if 30 feels too overwhelming). Then, write down a series of 3 minute actions to complete each item. For example: Item: Need to get the department guidelines for formatting 3 minutes: look up department secretary’s phone number 3 minutes: leave a message requesting this information 3 minutes: follow up if not received by XYZ date And so on. Make as detailed a list as possible, listing each item with its required steps. Then, whenever you have a 5 minute block of time, you can start working down the list. This is a useful tool for both managing your time and building momentum. Plus, it’s fun. (And how often do you hear that the dissertation work is fun?)

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