by Carlos (Student blogger: PhD in Management Science)

During these weeks, there is something interesting going on at the Uni. Everybody is struggling with coursework, going from one lecture to another and trying to find time to relax. Michaelmas term is over with, coursework handed in and before we realise, Lent term courses have begun.  Some students think that missing one lecture will help them to finish their coursework. Unfortunately, this is quite ineffective from my point of view. Then the question is how to deal with all this pressure while you just want to find a time to relax.

I could say, ‘I’m not the best example to tell you how to deal with this.’ However I have seen some friends that used to work day and night, and sleeping just a few hours a day (or every two days in some cases). I cannot deny that I used to feel a bit guilty after seeing them going to work for a second shift, while I was coming back to sleep.

But then the question is, when can I make progress? After midnight? At the first hour in the morning? After dusk? In my case, the problem was related to a lack of inspiration that used to happen from time to time.  As I had to complete a piece of coursework with 8 different sections by using a single dataset, looking over the same data every day, I got stuck on charts and summary tables, and then I got this moment when I asked yourself “what else could I do?” Fortunately I had some colleagues to talk with and they suggested different ideas, including reading some books and looking for web resources.

Frustration is sometimes the main issue and talking with classmates can be useful to reduce stress but my main recommendation is to do something new every day, to avoid staying in bed and adding something new so you can see how you progress. And of course, you need some spare time that has to be used wisely; avoid staying in your room, go for a walk, go to buy your groceries. Try a different route and treat yourself after making some progress. Assign a time to relax.

Reading a book, going for a stroll, or watching a movie, can reveal something different and help you to see the hidden face of the cube. Also a good routine of a least 7 hours sleep every day, some workouts in the morning, and assigning a special place and time for studying are very helpful. It is also satisfactory to go to bed every day with some new progress in your coursework or dissertation. A clear mind can give you new ideas after a proper sleep. It is also possible to get new ideas while you’re dreaming!

My rule of thumb, in this case, would be to end the day knowing that you have done something new. I had the opportunity to attend a writing retreat, and I was surprised by how much you can write when there are no distractions, no calls, no social media, no WhatsApp. But you have to also be motivated and feel inspired. I struggle to work consistently at the beginning, but after getting involved at the writing retreat and finding some motivation, I think, I could be working on a subject for ages.

To sum up, my suggestion is  to begin your coursework as soon as possible, avoid distractions you identify while you’re working (it is possible and it works!), keep yourself busy during working times in a place dedicated for that, and you’ll get immediate results, even if the progress is slow at the beginning. Don’t desist! As soon as you get stuck, contact your fellows, your supervisor or tutor, don’t wait too long. Or try doing another part of the requirements and then go back to the section if you think you can improve.

A bit of exercise every day, good sleeping and a healthy diet are helpful. Relax at least one day per week (close the book during that day), drink water regularly and don’t feel bad if you have a difficult moment when you lack ideas – it is normal after hard work! Take that time to do something new, some local sightseeing maybe, a new movie, and then get back to work 😉