HomeBxLogStudy TipsPerfect Timing: More Tips for Better Time Management Perfect Timing: More Tips for Better Time Management October 7, 2024 There are (unfortunately) only 24 hours in a day– and that goes for everyone, including Beyoncé. For BCBA® exam candidates, time management is the name of the game right now. PTB has already rounded up 6 time management tips but in case you need more help, here are 5 additional ways to better organize a packed schedule. #1: Swallow the Frog Not literally please. This expression refers to completing the hardest or most arduous tasks first. By “swallowing the frog” (i.e., doing the thing you least want to do), you can cross off those large and looming items on your to-do list, which clears up your schedule and can help give you a sense of accomplishment. Use the motivation of completing the difficult stuff first as momentum to finish your other tasks. #2: Stop Multitasking This may seem counterintuitive, but believe it or not, multitasking is often more time consuming than doing one thing at a time. When you multitask, your attention is divided, which can diminish your ability to work effectively. Multitasking can lead to more careless mistakes and, according to a Stanford study, multitasking can lead to a poorer working memory and sustained attention. #3: Schedule Based on Energy Levels When it comes to time management, knowing when you’re most alert and energetic can be a Big help. Not a morning person? Maybe don’t review dense study materials first-thing after you wake up. Pay attention to your energy levels throughout the day and make note of when you feel your peaks and when you feel drained. Schedule the tasks that require the most brain power according to when you’re feeling the most fired up. #4: Visualize the End Goal The enemy of time management: Procrastination. It’s not easy to tame the procrastination beast but even 10 minutes here and there can add up to missed deadlines. When you’re struggling to get started, visualize the end goal. Remember what you’re working towards and what you have to gain. Plus, if you’re studying for the 5th Edition BCBA® exam, knowing that you have a limited amount of time left can help you stay motivated and on schedule. #5: Use the “5-Minute Rule” Get the smaller tasks out of the way by implementing the 5-Minute Rule: If a task takes less than 5 minutes to complete, do it immediately. Things like sending an email, scheduling a meeting, and setting a reminder– all little things that are often put off but take a short time to complete. It’s all too easy to ignore the small stuff but if you can knock it out in under 5 minutes, try pushing yourself to do it as soon as it crosses your mind. Study Manual Related Content Dana Do's: Socially Significant Information Social significance is such a buzzword ABA. PTB founder Dana Meller breaks down all the different areas in which social significance is important. Dana Do's: How to Prepare for the Transition to the BACB® 6th Edition Test Content Outline With the 6th Edition transition weeks away, many BCBA®/BCaBA® exam candidates are uncertain about how to best prepare. PTB founder Dana Meller is here with advice on how 5th Ed. students can plan to Beat the Odds and navigate the new 6th Ed. Test Content Outline (TCO).Perfect Timing: More Tips for Better Time Management There are (unfortunately) only 24 hours in a day– and that goes for everyone, including Beyoncé. 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FINAL SALE - NO RETURNS, REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES AFTER 9/24/24 Universally recognized as the “other white book”, the comprehensive PTB ABA Exam Study Manual organizes and breaks down the complete 5th Edition Task List, distilling the Cooper text (Applied Behavior Analysis by John Cooper, Timothy Heron and William Heward) to include all critical exam concepts. The Manual is structured for quick navigation, contextualized with situational and relatable examples, salient visuals, and detailed explanations. In its 11th year of publication, the Manual is widely regarded as an ideal study companion and ABA bible, proving valuable as a quick reference tool beyond the exam. Save! Manual is $99 when purchased with the PTB 5th Edition Big Exam Prep Workshop. FREE SHIPPING (U.S. ONLY): Delivery within 7 - 10 business days. PRIORITY SHIPPING (U.S. ONLY): Delivery within 3 - 5 business days for an additional fee. Select USPS Priority at checkout.
