How to Get Your Homework Done Faster: 5 Simple Steps

School is full swing and the teachers are really piling on the homework.  Have you noticed that assignments are more complex and require more time and effort than ever before? No matter what kind of "homework" you are completing, it's important to have a systematic method for getting your work done. Here are 5 tips you can use to complete any assignment faster.

5 Simple Things to Do to
Finish Your Homework
 Faster Than Ever Before

#1-Get the right attitude:  

Doing homework is something no one really looks forward to, but with the right mindset, it's not so bad.  Completing assignments can actually give a sense of accomplishment and that always feels good. Additionally, doing homework... 

• enhances your learning
• prevents the need for cramming
• decreases the amount of  time you will need to study for tests
• improves your grades
• makes you a better student

  So, give yourself a pep talk and get started...YOU CAN DO THIS!



#2- Get organized:  

• Keep a written list of assignments in a designated location, like an assignment book, an agenda or even a homework app 

• Once you know exactly what needs to be done, gather all of the materials you anticipate you will need- paper, pencil, markers, ruler, glue stick, scissors, dictionary, calculator...whatever the tasks call for

• Take time to gather and organize your materials and work space before you get started can save you time and will prevent you from losing the momentum you've got going later on

#3- Get the right environment:  

After you collect your materials, here are a few other things you can do set the stage for homework success:

• Find a private, quiet spot- try to avoid high traffic and high noise areas like the kitchen or the family room

• Turn off the tv-  if that's not possible, at the very least, turn the tv down and position yourself away from the screen

• If you must have some sort of noise, classical music has been proven to stimulate brain waves that are optimal for alertness and learning- I'm not sure how they figured it out, but Baroque music is the best (Vivaldi's Four Seasons is a favorite)

• Turn on the lights- it's easier to see and it can help prevent you from getting sleepy

• Sit in a chair at a table- doing homework on the floor or lying across your bed is never a good idea

• Go to the bathroom before getting started- a full bladder can be very distracting and bathroom breaks can cause you to lose your momentum

• Get a drink if you're thirsty, or get something to eat if you're hungry- same as above, you don't want a dry mouth or growling stomach to keep you from being able to concentrate or complete an assignment

• Get comfortable by taking off your shoes or changing clothes- little adjustments can make a big difference in your homework efficiency

#4- Get clear about the time that will be required:

Estimate how long your think an assignment will take to complete, add 5 minutes and set a timer. You may not always estimate the exact amount of time needed, but a good guestimate and a timer can:

• help keep you on track
• make sure you don't spend too much time on one single assignment
• serve as a visual reminder that you will eventually be finished with your homework

Challenge yourself to beat the clock. Consider giving yourself a small reward for your win.



#5- Get going:

Ready. Set.  Go!  Plain and simple, you'll never finish your homework if you don't get started. Don't wait until the end of the day to get it done, begin now.

• you're more alert with better concentration earlier in the day
• you won't miss out on all of the fun stuff your family and friends are doing later on
• you're more likely to have help available from family or friends if you need it
• you can avoid the panic and worry of running out of time

Following these simple steps will help you get your homework done faster, improve your grades and make you feel like an academic super star!  If you need additional help with organization, note taking, study skills or time management, Spontaneous Speech offers short workshops for students in middle school, high school and college. To learn more, call us at 361-261-1700. Classes are forming now!


There is no possible way a student can learn everything mentioned in a class without reinforcing the subject with homework.
Lew Levine