I am the type of person who likes to have a visual of all the assignments that I have to complete, and I’ve come to the conclusion that written to-do lists are the best way to stay on task.

With finals coming up, many students will be frantically studying and turning in missing work to keep a good grade. Keeping all of the homework, tests, and finals in mind, I’ve found it is super helpful to write out all my assignments either on a piece of notebook paper or in a planner. Not only does it help you stay on task, but it’s helpful to see everything you have to do.

I don’t only do this for school: if I know that I have things to do at home like cleaning my room or doing laundry, I’ll write out a list so I don’t forget anything. It’s helpful to have a visual so you know that you have things to do. You can also write them online, which can be more helpful to others, but I’ve found if I write it on my phone or computer I’ll often just close out of the tab and forget about it. Not only does having it physically written out help you remember, but it is like a reward when you’re able to cross something off your list. The feeling of knowing that you completed something always makes me want to keep going so I’m able to cross more off. In the long run, this makes it easier for me to finish everything I have to do.

I have a whiteboard in my room specifically for writing things that I need  to remember and things that I have to do. For me, it’s such a smart and cute way to write your lists. Having all the different colors to color code everything makes it fun when doing chores or homework. If a whiteboard isn’t your style, a little notebook or a planner is something that can also be super helpful.

Not only does it feel good to cross things off, but writing a list can help get rid of unnecessary stress. Writing down your responsibilities will help you not forget anything. Furthermore, being able to see the chores you have to do can help you follow through with it.

If you know you have lots to do with finals coming up, try writing out to-do lists to help relieve the stress you might have. Not only is it fun to write everything and organize it all, but it feels good to accomplish your goals while also finishing all the things you have to do.