It's hard to get back into the swing of things for the second semester. And I don't know if it's just me but it always seems like my second-semester classes are way harder and a lot more work. But I have two tips for you that will make your life a smidge easier.

1. Color-Coded Planner

OK, this might seem like a bit much but hear me out. I have a certain colored pen for each class I am in and everything that is due for that class is written in that color so I know which class I am working on. This helps me know how much time I am going to need depending on which class it is. This also saves me time when I am having to look for the assignment online, I just look for the matching class color on Canvas. Then, as everything is done, I cross it off with a yellow highlighter. This shows me how much I have completed and how much I still have left. By having my planner like this I am much more organized and motivated.

2. Set Your Time Aside

I know this one is said a lot but, you really will benefit from setting aside a few hours two or three times a week to do homework. This is good because you can put it in your everyday schedule. You can tell your friends ahead of time, "Hey, I study at these times every week so if you want to do something, try to make sure it isn't during these times." This also saves stress about when you are going to get things done because you already have time set aside. During this time, make sure that you really buckle down and stay focused during this time, try to cut down on texting and distractions as much as possible.