The list below represents what a group of experienced UVic Teaching Assistants (TAs) have identified as important aspects of how to manage your time as a TA and graduate student. Not all suggestions below may be applicable in all departments on campus. Please use the list as a guide only as this list is not exhaustive but encompasses a diverse array of techniques.
Related guides
To manage your time effectively, try some of the following techniques:
Organization
- Start small, break larger projects into smaller chunks
- Identify tasks and organize
- To the best of your ability, block out distractions
- Have an organized plan for outcomes
- Have an outline for students for class and course
- Use calendars and make lists
- Plan ahead to know what other tasks or projects are coming up
Balance
- Take personal time, even if it is only a few moments each day
- Learn to say “no” when appropriate
- Talk to your peers, your Teaching Assistant Consultant (TAC), or your course instructors, and ask for support or feedback
- Do not procrastinate
- Prioritize and divide responsibilities
- Allow for balance
- Stay focused; do not multitask
Managing Expectations
- Respect your deadlines and boundaries
- Do not blame yourself
- Know your own ability to balance tasks, workloads, time required
- Upon completing a task, reward yourself
- Avoid off-topic discussions; focus on your main point
- If you become overwhelmed, re-negotiate your workload
This guide was developed during the Teaching Assistant Consultants’ (TACs) seminars for the academic year 2009-2010 and updated in 2020-2021.
