The 5-Step Homework Routine

Written By Rachel Gryniewicz, MA, MATL
 
 

As a student, homework can seem like a constant battle. Once you get ahead, more is inevitably assigned. Improving time management skills can make the mountain of homework much easier to climb while improving your productivity and reducing overwhelm.

Here are some 5 steps to create the perfect homework routine:

  1. Check for assignments

    Take a few minutes to review your school’s portal and any assignments you may have jotted down during the day. Write down all assignments that are due the next day and longer term assignments and assessments that are coming up. 

  2. Create a plan

    1. Prioritize assignments based on urgency and effort. What is due tomorrow? Do I want to start with easier or harder assignments? Move those items to the top of the to-do list.

    2. After urgent items, chunk up future assignments. Is there an essay coming up? A test next week? What steps can you start today? If multiple steps are needed, choose which days you will complete those steps and assign those steps to yourself as homework.

    3. Using something like an assignment tracker will enable you to prioritize assignments and make a plan for the entire week. 

  3. Use a timer

    The pomodoro method is a great way to organize your time. Plan time for sustained focus and time for a break. Breaks act as incentives and provide much needed rest. When you have your plan in place for the day, create a time estimation for each assignment. When you complete an assignment, write down how much time it actually took. Did you over or underestimate? Having a more accurate sense of time will help you budget better in the future. 

  4. Choose your environment wisely

    If your phone pulls your focus, set it on do not disturb. Try body doubling - work at a public library or complete your homework with a friend or sibling. The feeling of productivity is contagious! 

  5. Reflect and Revise

    Be flexible. Something you didn’t get to? Was your initial plan too ambitious? Revise your plan for the week and plan accordingly so you do not fall behind. 


Establishing a routine is a great way to streamline your day and foster habits. As you begin to automate these steps you will be more efficient with your time and find it easier to start and plan out tasks. 


Homework routine down but still struggling in a particular subject? Homework Solved is the perfect fit! Our expert content tutors can help you complete an assignment, master a concept or prepare for a test. With 1:1 tutoring sessions, you will learn strategies to approach a specific content area and grow your academic confidence.

Schedule a discovery call today!

Rachel Gryniewicz, MA, MATL

Rachel brings over a decade of experience in instructional coaching, curriculum development, and the design and implementation of student focused workshops and programs. She specializes in working with students in the areas of organization, time management, study strategies, and other crucial executive function skills. Her interests in developing leadership and advocacy skills in adolescents enrich her coaching sessions empowering her clients to be more assertive and confident. As a former high school teacher and college lecturer, Rachel understands the skills required to be successful at both levels and helps students prepare for their transition to college, including teaching and reinforcing strategies around planning ahead and breaking down large tasks. Rachel has also curated several professional development opportunities for educators centered on Executive Function skills such as resiliency and flexible thinking. 

A member of the Life Solved team since 2017, Rachel has recently entered a full-time position coordinating the client onboarding experience and ensuring a successful coaching engagement for coach and client. She continues to work with students of different ages and backgrounds as well as adult clients. Her positive energy and passion for helping others find success is evident in the work she does with her clients.

Rachel has a Masters in Teacher Leadership from Mount Holyoke College as well as a  Masters in Classics from the University of Maryland, College Park.  She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Classics and Art History from Mount Holyoke College.

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