A Guide on How to Be More Efficient in College

College can feel like a juggling act: classes, exams, internships, social life, sleep (remember that?), laundry. It’s easy to feel like you're always running behind, struggling to catch up, and unsure how everyone else seems to “have it together.” 

But here's the truth: efficiency isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters more. Whether you’re a freshman finding your footing or a senior gearing up for life after graduation, learning how to be efficient in college can turn overwhelming chaos into a life of purpose and momentum.

Below are some practical, personally-tested tips to help you manage both your study productivity and personal life, so you can thrive in college!

Study & Academic Efficiency Tips

1. Study Smarter, Not Longer

Use focused methods like the Pomodoro Technique (25-minute focus, 5-minute break) to maximize concentration and reduce burnout. Prioritize active recall and spaced repetition over passive rereading or highlighting. These help you retain more in less time.

2. Time Block Your Week

Dedicate chunks of time to specific tasks—lectures, studying, club meetings, meals. This keeps your day structured and prevents last-minute cramming. Google Calendar or apps like Notion can help you visualize your schedule and make better use of gaps between classes.

3. Go to Class Prepared (and Early)

Preview materials before class. Even skimming the headings can help your brain form context. Arriving a few minutes early gives you mental space to settle in and creates a reputation of being prepared and engaged.

4. Eliminate Distractions Intentionally

Put your phone on “Do Not Disturb” or use apps like Focus Mode to stay on task. Create a study environment where distractions are minimal, and consider noise-canceling headphones or setting up in a quiet, consistent location. 

A bonus regarding location: Studies have shown that if you avoid working in the room that you sleep in (and especially on your bed), you’ll be more productive and you’ll get better sleep.

5. Use the 80/20 Rule for Studying

Ask yourself: “What 20% of this material will give me 80% of the results on the exam?” Focus your attention there first (hopefully your professor would have let you know already!). This approach helps with strategic studying when you're short on time. For example, maybe instead of reading the textbooks and trying to go through all the details, focus on the lecture slides and any key diagrams that help you remember key concepts.

Personal Life & Time Management Tips

1. Set a Weekly Review Time

Set up a time once a week (e.g., Sunday night) to review your upcoming week: deadlines, events, goals. This weekly ritual—as short as 10 minutes a week—helps you stay ahead and reduces surprises. It’s like your weekly “reset” button. You can use apps like Notion to keep you on track of various things you are making progress on!

2. Learn to Say “No” Wisely

You don’t have to attend every hangout or join every club. Choose your commitments based on your goals and bandwidth. 

But here’s a pro tip: Sometimes, you have to choose the things that you’ll remember 10 years down the line. Of course, choose wisely and with discernment. But as a friend once told me: “10 years down the line, are you going to remember this ballet that we can go to tonight, or are you going to remember what’s on the test that you’re studying for?” I had been studying for that test for two days already. I chose to go to the ballet. And to this day, years later, I remember Swan Lake—but I have no clue what I had been studying for. Studying 24/7 nonstop for a week will lead to diminishing returns. You need to recharge!

3. Plan Your Breaks and Rest

Rest is needed! Schedule breaks into your day: 15-minute walks, a hangout with friends, or a coffee break between classes. You’ll return to your work refreshed and more focused.

4. Batch Small Tasks Together

Instead of answering emails, cleaning your dorm, or doing laundry at random, batch these tasks into one time block. It’s mentally easier and prevents them from breaking your focus throughout the day. For example, instead of doing the chores as they come into your mind, have a “second brain” (e.g., a notebook) to write them down! Then look at your calendar and plan for a time where you can get all your chores done!

5. Build Daily Routines and Rituals

Morning and evening routines give your day a rhythm. Starting with quiet time in the Bible, journaling, or working out—even for just 10 minutes—helps your day begin with intention and clarity. At night, reflect, wind down, and jot down plans for the next day.

In sum: Efficiency in college isn’t about doing everything perfectly. It’s about being intentional with your time and energy. When you stay on top of your work and make space for rest, relationships, and personal as well as spiritual growth, life feels a lot less overwhelming. You’ll find that you not only get more done, you actually enjoy college more, too. Remember, your life is a lot more than just work itself!

Start small. Pick two tips from above and apply them this week. You'll be surprised how quickly clarity, confidence, and calm begin to follow.

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The author of this post is Xunkai Chen. He is currently a PhD candidate and graduate researcher in chemical engineering at Princeton University.

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