Break the work into chunks

Make a note of milestones within each task - such as initial research of existing literature. Creating a mind map is one way to break down assessment tasks.

Decide how much content you will work through each week, and add this into your planner. Time management strategies such as “to do” lists will help you feel more confident about managing your workload.

Social support is important

Help those close to you understand your commitment to study. Talk about how you will fit study into your life, and how they can help you get things done. For instance, your partner might take on more housework. And sometimes the most helpful thing could be a friendly nudge to keep on track with your study.

Connection with other students can be invaluable when studying - after all, they are the ones who truly understand what you are trying to do. Being active in the class community has been found to be a strong motivator.

Connection with other students can be invaluable when studying - after all, they are the ones who truly understand what you are trying to do. Being active in the class community has been found to be a strong motivator.

Be kind to yourself

Did you know that procrastination can be associated with a desire for perfection? Perfectionists can find it hard to start an assignment. This can then lead to a sense of guilt and further procrastination.

Put the procrastination and self-blame aside and just start. Take on challenges one at a time. And congratulate yourself for getting this far.

See these guides for practical tips on avoiding procrastination:

• Avoiding procrastination
• Overcoming procrastination

Celebrate along the way

Celebrate the firsts - your first module finished, your first assignment done, your first course finished. Share your achievements with others - a dinner, a social media post, a phone call. You got this!

Remind yourself why you started

What prompted you to take on your study? Was it to start your career or to change professions? Or were you aiming to progress your career in your current profession?

A powerful motivator can be to tailor your assessments in such a way that they fit with your end goal.

Hot tip: Create a note with what is motivating you and keep it near your study space.

Balance

Exercise, diet and having a social life are still important! Make sure you allow time to look after your health and wellbeing especially when working on assessment.

Manage distractions

Mobile phones chirp and beep at us all day. It is easy to lose track of time checking your Facebook feed!

Come up with a strategy that will work for you - whether it is putting your phone on silent, leaving it in another room, or turning notifications off while you’re focusing on study.