When I start studying I always make timetables (that includes for studying the Bible and my Academics), for the first few days I stick to the timetables but then I lose my continuity in it. How can I stick to my timetable?

Thanks for the question. Here are some things you can keep in mind for sticking to timetables without losing continuity. 

• Set up your study space: I recommend that you have a designated study space which has everything you require. Make sure your study space is clean, free of clutter and also noise free. Some people will like to study with light background music and some people like quieter spaces. But once you have your designated space set, you are going to be super productive, anytime you go in there. Most important ,make it separate from your relaxation space. Ideally away from a TV screen or other distractions. 

• Follow the 8-8-8 rule: Study for 8 hours, sleep for 8 hours and spend 8 hours for praying and reading the Bible, eating, bathing, taking a break, family time, going out into the fresh air, exercise etc. The trouble is sometimes we spend 10-12 hours studying but we are not fully focusing all the time. And a word of caution – do not cut back on sleep, as this will negatively affect your exam performance. 

• Get Realistic: Many of us are prone to over-estimating how much we can get done – and studying is a high-energy, intense activity which requires a lot of concentration. So don’t get ambitious on quantity but try to focus on whether you can concentrate and study for the allotted time. You can follow the Pomodoro Technique. 

• Find Your Best Time of Day: Some people are at their best to study in the morning and some in the night. Find out your best time to be productive. 

• Mix Things Up: Taking notes from books as you’re reading. Reading for half an hour, then writing down notes from what you remember. Drawing diagrams or pictures to help you remember or understand a concept. By doing this , there are less chances for you not to get bored. 

• Build in Flexibility: Do not keep anything to the last minute. Try studying everything before the previous day of exams. Our study schedule may fall apart as soon as something unexpected cropped up? Life happens – and sometimes you’ll have to cancel a planned study session in order to deal with an interruption or an emergency. When you are preparing your studying schedule, allow some “spare” time also which you can use if you need to catch up. 

• Review plan: Taking five minutes at the end of every week to review your progress can help you to spot inefficiencies, adapt your habits, and optimize your study time.