Time Prioritization

Next, we turn to the Pareto Principle, Eisenhower Matrix, and other time prioritization techniques.

The Pareto Principle, also referred to as the 80/20 rule, suggests a significant portion of results come from a small fraction of effort. Specifically, 80% of the output comes from 20% of the input. Only 20% of the input is responsible for 80% of the output. People have often used phrases like the vital few or trivial many. These phrases emphasize that when getting things done, it is quality over quantity. 

Keep this principle in mind. This way, we ensure our 20% of ultra-productive time focuses on the correct task. For instance, if we are at our most alert in mid-morning, we shouldn’t schedule menial tasks at this time. Instead, focus on activities that require more brain power. Save the menial tasks for when you are less alert. Similarly, if your instructor has office hours, use this time for assignments that are complex and pressing. Handle simple questions at another time if they can wait.

Eisenhower Matrix

One technique to visualize priorities is the Eisenhower Matrix. This simple but effective chart has 4 squares total, two squares over two squares. The two columns are marked as “Urgent” and “Not Urgent.” The two rows are marked “Important” and “Not Important.” You first take all your tasks and sort them into one of the four quadrants. For the quadrant that is both “Urgent” and “Important,” you complete those tasks. Those tasks that are “Urgent” but also “Not Important,” these can be delegated. For tasks marked as “Not Urgent” but “Important,” these tasks need to be scheduled. Finally, tasks that are deemed as both “Not Urgent” and “Not Important” can be skipped altogether. 

Rankings

Other techniques, going by countless names, start by making a list of all activities, chores, assignments, and other tasks. Instead of putting them in quadrants, these other techniques keep all the items in a list. They either move items up and down the list based on priority or time required. They also might color code the items to visualize high importance items or things that can be done quickly. When ranking items by importance, these are some questions you can ask to help. Which task has the most impact? What would be the worst thing if this item isn’t completed?

2 Minute Rule

If you are ranking by time, the 2-minute rule can be useful. This simple rule recommends immediately completing every item that should take 2-minutes or less to complete. This can help motivate you to complete other tasks. You will see progress in checking tasks off of your list. One word of caution, these two-minute tasks can add up. Make sure you aren’t spending all your productive time on these items.

The final technique to prioritize time is avoiding over-commitment. Be honest with yourself and your time restraints. Learn to say no to some events and tasks to prevent being overwhelmed by obligations. This may be one of the most important skills that you will need to learn in college. 

By avoiding over-commitment and prioritizing your time, you can complete all of your tasks at university. When you get overwhelmed, take a deep breath. Remember these techniques to simplify your load. Use them to complete your to-do list.