6 ways to learn how to establish a productive homework routine

Homework. Whether you’re a fifth-grader or a freshman in college, the mere thought of homework is often overwhelming. And truly, doing homework is often quite difficult. But homework doesn’t need to be something a student dreads. 
 
As a former high school English teacher and researcher who specializes in what it takes to make it through college – and a co-author of a forthcoming revised edition of a book about academic success – I’ve studied homework since 2010. Here are six ways I think homework can be made more manageable and valuable, whether you’re in grade school, high school, or graduate school. 
 
1. Set priorities 
 
Establish an inventory of priorities based on the class syllabus or assignment list. This will help tackle difficult tasks, create motivation, and activate your sense of control and independence when it involves learning. The priority list helps maintain goals and provides you a sense of satisfaction to cross things off the list as they are completed. 
 
2. Tackle difficult tasks first, 
 
start together with your most difficult assignments first to make the most of your energy level and to focus at the beginning of a work session. You'll attend to the easier or less time-consuming assignments at the end of a work session. 
 
3. Break tasks right down into smaller steps 
 
You may not know how to start a major task, which could trigger procrastination or feelings of defeat. To protect against this, break major tasks into three or four smaller steps. Within one homework session, you'll feel greater accomplishment by completing each small step toward the larger whole. In some cases, you would possibly be able to spread these tasks over a week. 
 
4. Create evidence of learning 
 
You will get more out of the time you spend reading, reviewing notes, or otherwise “studying” if you create something within the process. For instance, creating flashcards, a graphic organizer, a chart, or notes with bullet points can facilitate you to become an active learner rather than a passive one. Organize the tools you create with the homework assignment by date and topic so that you can review those items to prepare for quizzes, tests, or projects. 
 
5. Build a network of support 
 
If certain homework problems couldn't be solved and, you’re stuck in a rut, work out what’s confusing you and write or record your thoughts. Jot questions down and be as specific as possible to seek additional support from teachers or tutors. The more you identify sources of confusion, the more you'll proactively reach out to your support network – teachers, tutors et al. – to get more help. 
 
6. Revisit goals and set new ones 
 
At the beginning of each homework session, establish goals for the completion of your tasks or assignments. Revisit the goals at the top of the session and acknowledge a sense of completion. This goal-setting process builds confidence over time and helps you really your heir potential even when faced with challenges. A productive homework routine will facilitate you to realize that learning is an ongoing journey. The journey could also be difficult, but getting organized will make it as stress-free as possible.