Semester Planning

Backwards Mapping

Begin with the end in mind. Complex assignments can be broken down into manageable chunks. Analyze your tasks using backwards mapping and determine what tasks need to be completed. Once you have this organized information, periodically refer back to your Backwards Mapping Plan in order to analyze your progress. Throughout this process, keep in mind other things going on in your schedule that could prevent you from being able to stick to your plan. Keep your plan realistic for you!

Step 1: Identify the due dates of major assignments or exams, and place those on your month at-a-glance calendar.

Step 2: Identify the tasks to complete, beginning with the last ones and working your way to the beginning of the semester. Clearly mark due dates on your calendar for each task.

Step 3: Break down each task into smaller, more manageable chunks, and assign due dates for each one.

 

Request a free mapping sheet from our OAL Specialist

Backwards Mapping Sheet

 

It's always helpful to get your schedule organized before the semester starts. Take into account your work and family responsibilities and plan out when you'll be hitting the books. It's important to make sure you understand what's expected of you and the types of commitments you will be making. Consider the following:

• Familiarize yourself with your course syllabi
• Gather your school materials ahead of time
• Place important dates and deadlines on a calendar
• Establish a schedule and routine
• Connect with your peers

Consider the benefits of setting goals. It's a powerful tool that can help keep you focused and on track towards achieving your desires. The key is to ensure your goals are specific and clear, so you know precisely what you're working towards. With well-defined goals, you'll be on the path to success! Try the SMART goal technique:

Specific - Your goals should be clear and specific to focus your efforts. When drafting your goals, try to answer these five “W” questions:

• What do I want to accomplish?
• Why is this goal important?
• Who is involved?
• Where is it located?
• Which resources or limits are involved?

Measurable – It’s important to have measurable goals, so that you can track your progress and stay motivated. A measurable goal should address questions such as:

• How much?
• How many?
• How will I know when it is accomplished?

Achievable – Your goals needs to be realistic, while also stretching your abilities. An achievable goal will usually answer questions such as:

• How can I accomplish this goal?
• How realistic is the goal, based on other constraints, such as financial factors?

Relevant – This step is about ensuring that your goal matters to you. A relevant goal can answer “es” to these questions:

• Does this seem worthwhile?
• Is this the right time?
• Does this match our other efforts/needs?
• Am I the right person to reach this goal? 

Time-bound – Every goal needs a target date so that you have a deadline upon which to focus. A time-bound goal will usually answer these questions:

• When?
• What can I do 6 months from now?
• What can I do 6 weeks from now?
• What can I do today? 

Establishing a connection with your instructor at the beginning of the semester will streamline communication in the future. Simply locate your instructor’s email within your blackboard course or syllabus and introduce yourself. Ask any questions you might already have but if you don’t have any, that’s alright too. The point of introducing yourself is to establish a line of communication so when you have questions later, there’s no last-minute scramble to locate your instructor's name and contact information. 

It's important to prioritize self-care just as much as studying and attending class. Whether it's reading a book, going for a run, or setting aside a few hours each week to meditate, taking care of yourself is crucial for achieving success.