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The top time saver tips for postgraduate students
Postgraduate study is exciting, challenging and often a major shift from the rhythm of undergraduate life. You’re probably balancing work, study and a personal life that already feels full. That’s why finding the right time management tools and routines can make a big difference. The good news is that time management for students can be learned and refined, and there are plenty of small adjustments that help postgraduate students study smarter, not harder.
Below are the top time management tips and tricks to help you stay focused, organised and supported throughout your next chapter at The Australian National University (ANU). Think of these ideas as practical tools you can mix and match to create your own flow as you step into postgraduate study.
Build a realistic weekly rhythm
The right digital tools can save hours each week. Look for apps that help you structure your time and keep track of deadlines. Some students rely on task boards, while others love simple productivity timers. If you prefer more guidance, many apps include built-in time management strategies that help you break large tasks into manageable steps.
A good rule of thumb is to avoid collecting too many tools. Choose a couple of time management tools that genuinely help you stay organised and keep everything in one place. This keeps your system simple and easy to maintain as your workload grows.
The key is finding the right digital tools that work for you and your flow.
Make the most of postgraduate research tools
Postgraduate students spend far more time on research, referencing and academic reading than they did in their undergraduate years. Leaning into postgraduate study tools can shave hours off your research load.
Citation builders are a great starting point. They show you the correct style and formatting, and when you learn how to reference manually, you can check your work with confidence. Pair this with smart use of journal databases. Many platforms allow you to save, sort and tag articles so your research is always at your fingertips.
There are so many tools out there that can cut your time in half and improve productivity.
Stay connected to your workplace or supervisor
If you’re working while studying, your workplace may offer flexibility you didn’t know about. Many postgraduate students have arrangements that support part time study, exam weeks or research blocks. A conversation with your manager could open the door to compressed hours, adjusted schedules or quiet periods for major assignments.
Communication is also key if you’re a research student. Your supervisor can guide your timeline, suggest realistic milestones and help you avoid unnecessary delays. This kind of postgraduate assistance keeps you grounded, especially when you’re managing a long project.
It’s worth remembering that you’re not doing this alone. Many workplaces and supervisors want to support your success.
Your employer might be able to make adjustments for your study.
Turn quiet moments into quick learning wins
Postgraduate life often involves moving between commitments, commuting or stepping between meetings and study. This is where podcasts become powerful. Choose a few relevant to your discipline, career or research area and use short bursts of time to build knowledge.
These small additions can deepen your understanding and bring new perspectives to your coursework. They’re also perfect for those moments when you feel tired or need a break from screens. Slow, steady learning keeps you engaged without adding extra hours to your day.
There are podcasts on almost every topic in the universe, all available on your device.
Match your energy, not the clock
Not all hours are equal. Every student has certain windows where their focus is naturally stronger. The benefit of postgraduate study is that you have more control over your schedule, which means you can match tasks to the times of day when you perform best.
If you’re sharp in the morning, reserve that time for complex readings or research. If you feel more creative in the afternoon, save your writing sessions for when you feel inspired. Tailoring your time management strategies around your energy helps you do better work in shorter periods. This approach is also easier to stick with because it feels natural instead of rigid.
Choose your study times strategically. It’s all about listening to your body and how you feel.
Lean on the support available at ANU
The Academic Skills team provides guidance on structuring assignments, referencing, giving presentations and developing research skills. These services offer learning help that saves time by strengthening both your confidence and your academic foundations.
Postgraduate study comes with its own support network. You’ll also work with supervisors or research mentors who can guide your project, refine your ideas and help you avoid time consuming detours. Many students also join small writing or research groups for accountability and momentum. These connections give you practical postgraduate assistance and keep you grounded through the bigger milestones of your degree.
Don’t be afraid to collaborate and ask questions – it is an integral part of the postgraduate process.
You can do this!
Postgraduate study adds depth to your learning and opens new pathways for your future. With the right time management strategies, you can build routines that help you stay steady, confident and supported throughout your degree. The tools and ideas above are here to help you shape a study life that works for you.
Find out why a postgraduate degree is always worth it and our favourite places to study around Canberra.
