Homework fulfils an important role in the learning process. It is how teachers evaluate whether students understand in-class lessons and discussions. Homework also helps reinforce what you learn to ensure that you’re grasping the core concepts.

The fact that homework is so essential isn’t much consolation to students who would much rather spend their time doing something besides studying. Fortunately, homework doesn’t have to be such a frustrating or time-consuming process.

Incorporating these five tips into your process should help make your next assignment a breeze.

Tip #1: Clarify the Assignment

Above all else, it’s important that you understand the assignment.

Take detailed notes about the work, whether in a planner or as part of the in-class notes that you will use later. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request that the teacher clarify certain points if there is something you’re not sure about. After all, it’s better to take a few seconds to get clarification in class than to spend another hour agonizing about the issue later.

You can also ask the teacher how long each assignment should take. This will help you budget your time more effectively, and may serve to give you a head’s up that you need help if the work is taking longer than expected.

Tip #2: Create a Plan

Getting your homework done in the most effective way possible is all about pacing. Before sitting down with your homework, it’s a great idea to think about how much you have left to do and ask the following questions:

  • How much work do I have?
  • How long should each assignment take to complete?
  • When is each assignment due?
  • How difficult is each assignment?
  • Do I have the information I need, or will I need to do additional research?
  • What other commitments do I have scheduled?

The average high school student has between one and three hours of homework to complete each night. Asking the above questions and prioritizing your attention will help make the most of your time and effort.

Some students prefer to tackle the most difficult assignment first, while others try to run through the shortest assignments before doing anything else. Create a plan of action based on whichever approach works best for you.

Tip #3: Find the Time and Place

Over time, you’ll find that consistency in your approach to homework will put you in the right mindset to be successful.

It’s generally best to do your homework in the same place and at the same time every day. Whether it’s as soon as you get home or right before or after dinner, find a quiet and relaxing spot that is free of distractions. Try to do your homework in that same place and time whenever possible.

This will train you to anticipate your work at the same time each day. It will become very natural after a while, and you won’t have to try so hard to focus.

Tip #4: Take Breaks When Appropriate

The average person doesn’t have a particularly long attention span, and sitting for too long without getting up to move around can make the problem worse.

It’s suggested that you take a short rest about once every hour or so. A 10- or 15-minute break will help clear your mind so that you don’t get burned out and allows you to approach your assignment again with a relaxed and balanced mind.

Remember, homework isn’t an endurance battle. The more you try to force yourself to focus on the task at hand, the more difficult it will be to do so.

Tip #5: Ask for Help When Needed

No matter who you are, how much you study, or how closely you pay attention, there will eventually be something you simply won’t be able to understand on your own. These roadblocks often lead students to fall behind class lessons, and many become hopelessly lost as a result.

Rather than giving up hope, it’s vital that you ask for assistance with problems you don’t understand. Most teachers are happy to help, and may be able to work with you one-on-one before or after school to help you get where you need to be.

You can also speak to other students who seem to understand the material and may be able to point you in the right direction. Some schools provide opportunities for tutoring, where students who need a little bit of help can connect with classmates or private tutors who can explain the material in better detail.

Opportunities for assistance are out there—you just need to seek them out.

Increase Homework Efficiency to Decrease Stress

The need to do work outside of the classroom will follow you as long as you pursue your education, but it doesn’t need to be a constantly-torturous process.

Give these five easy practices a try and you’ll soon be sailing through your assignments, giving you more free time and a lot fewer headaches.