Q&A for How to Make a Schedule and Stick to It

Critical thinking starts with getting clear on your own thinking first. Before analyzing others' arguments, take time to ask yourself "What do I actually think about this?" Build evidence to support your own viewpoint. As you explore your own thinking more, you may find you have to update your beliefs. The key is to not get too attached to your first thought, but remain flexible. By starting to actively think about topics yourself, you'll get better at identifying the quality of thinking in what you read and hear.

We're all lazy. Every invention mankind has ever made was to reduce the effort a certain task costs. I would suggest that you accept that it's OK to be lazy sometimes, and even plan it in your schedule. My lazy day is Thursday - that evening I don't plan anything, no chores, no tasks no nothing. So all other days I can say "all right, I'll do this now because Thursday I can be lazy". However, remind yourself why you made your schedule, what your goals are, and let that motivate you.

Put all possible distractions away. Put electronics on a high shelf or give them to someone you trust. Study in one hour stretches and give yourself 10 minute break periods.

Limit distractions. If you find yourself wanting to use your phone, for example, give to a friend or family member until you've completed your tasks.

You have two options here, and a combination of both is best. If your schedule is too heavy, reduce it. The other option is to not beat yourself up about it. This is your life; you want to do a certain number of things according to a schedule, but it's not a dictatorship. If you don't stick to it every now and then, so what? Try your best, schedule some free time, and have fun in life.

There are programs and websites you can find online that allow you to block certain websites (such as Twitter, Facebook, etc.). You can use those whilst you're working to avoid getting distracted.

Yes, definitely. Just use any notebook. If you don't want to spend a lot of money then you can find great planners at a dollar store.

Try compromising with them. They may want you to make your schedule more child-friendly. Most kids keep most of the time after school unplanned, so stick to a morning schedule.

If that's the case then you shouldn't overload your schedule. Keep it real and leave some gaps between your daily activities to allow for the unexpected, e.g. 5-10 mins between each or whatever you find works best.