I love to-do lists and have tried many different kinds, but this is the very best one. Thanks, Selene Santiago, for teaching it to me! Here’s how it works:

Separate your to-do list into these categories:

Use an ACTION word at the start of each item so you know what action you need to take. Examples:

That’s it. Simple, huh? Here are a few simple tips:

  1. Clear the “today” list each day. There’s no better feeling than getting every thing on your “Today” list done. To this end…

  2. Be realistic about what you can get done in a day. There’s nothing worse than getting a LOT of stuff done in a day and still having ten things on the list. If you think you can’t get everything in your “Today” list done, move it down into the “This Week” list.

  3. If you’re worried about spending too much time on something, set a time goal. Example: WRITE research paper outline (1 hr.) Usually I give myself a little less time than I think it’ll actually take me so I work faster. It becomes a game.

There you have it. The easiest and most effective to-do list ever. Now let’s go get some stuff done!

Having a heard time getting your To Do list started? Here’s a helpful guide to overcoming procrastination.

To Do list(s) dragging you to the ground (and you along with them)? Don’t forget to take a step back and practice mindfulness throughout your college essay process.