How to Cope if a Number of Assignments are Due Simultaneously: Multitasking, a Student's Perogative

Multitasking is a student’s perogative. It is often necessary when confronted with a number of assignments that are due simultaneously. 

Many baby boomers and seniors returning to serious, academic endeavors feel over-whelmed with a multiplicity of assignments and do not know how to cope with the stress that arises when they are all due simultaneously. This is also true for younger students, who are just starting college or university.

The Writingcenter.unc.edu offers timely tips for students confronted with assignments and cautions students to make certain that they know what they are doing before trying to go beyond the assignment.

“Showing that you are able to think beyond the boundaries of a simple assignment can be good, but you must do what the assignment calls for first.”

There are number of basic guidelines that are helpful to students trying to cope with simultaneous assignments.

Do not panic regardless of how many assignments are due simultaneously. You can only do one thing at a time, although multitasking is possible at times. In other words, it may be feasible to work on them together.  

Take a serious look at all of your assignments. Some of them may appear easy to complete quickly, while others may require more work or research. It may be less problematic for you to begin with the easier assignments first. Get organized in terms of your priorities.

Read each assignment carefully, so that you know exactly what is required to complete it and you do not waste time doing things that are not necessary. If in doubt, ask. In other words, when you do not understand your assignment, check for further directives from your professor, teacher or tutor. He or she may be able to give you instructions that will prove beneficial and save you time.

Do a quick time management assessment with respect to each assignment. Some may take more time than others. Decide approximately how much time you will be able to relegate to each assignment and set up an assignment schedule accordingly.

Organize your assignments in such a way that you can work through them without any interruption. You may want to schedule some breaks, as well.

Focus on the key points in each assignment. Work closely with your textbooks, whenever possible. In your class notes, you may already have noted key points. Make certain that you are familiar with definitions. Use point form when possible.

Check for typos and grammatical errors prior to the submission of any assignments. A spell check will improve your marks.

Make certain that you submit your assignments to your professor, teacher or tutor in the requested submission format.

Include your name, student number, the name of the person to who it is being submitted and the name of the course, so that it does not get lost.

Submit your assignments on time, as submitting them late may cost you marks. If you have problems completing and submitting an assignment on time, discuss this with your professor, teacher or tutor, as soon as you are aware of it. An extension may be possible with respect to assignment submission, without having a penalty incurred. 

Work hard, be honest and sincere and your academic efforts will be rewarded.

Remember that multitasking is an art that you will develop further as you progress in your studies. It will get easier for you to cope with assignments that are due simultaneously.