The Learning Scientists

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Digest #171: Resources for Calendars and Scheduling

By Althea Need Kaminske

(cover image by MabelAmber on Pixabay)

Time management can be a challenge for learners at all levels. Generally, the farther along you are in your educational journey, the less your time is managed for you. You are given more independence and autonomy to set your own priorities and manage your own time - and it is assumed that you develop time management skills along the way. I think many people also assume that time management skills are somewhat static. That once you find a system you just have to stick to that system. However, there are many reasons why you may need to develop, update, or revise your approach to time management. As we go through different phases in our educations, careers, and life we experience different time pressures and shifting priorities.

This digest provides some resources for calendaring and scheduling. Whether you prefer online calendars and tools or pen and paper, I’ve gathered some resources from around the web to help you get the most out of your calendar system.

1) Google Calendar Training and Help by Google

If you have a Gmail account you might already be using Google Calendar to manage your time. Google has a really nice training and help page that covers a number of tips for how to manage and share your Google calendar.

Photo by Windows on Unsplash

Person holding a tablet with an online calendar and with a paper planner next to them.

2) 9 simple Outlook Calendar tips and tricks for beginners by Aiva Strelca

Outlook Calendar is another common online scheduling/calendar tool. This article provides some handy tips and tricks with useful screen shots.

3) How to Start a Bullet Journal for Beginners by bulletjournal.com

If you prefer pen-and-paper, and if you want a bit more creative freedom, then a Bullet Journal might be for you! A bullet journal is a method of journaling with a specific emphasis on productivity. This guide walks through how to get started with bullet journaling.

4) Using a Planner: Benefits, Tips, and Ideas for Beginners by erincondren.com

If you like pen-and-paper, but maybe don’t have the time or inclination for the free-format of a bullet journal, then a pre-made planner might be for you! This article, from the planner company Erin Condren, provides a nice overview of different types of planners and gives some steps and tips for using your planner.

5) How to Get Students to Use Their Planners by Sarah Kesty

Finally, if you work with students (or are a student who wants some tips!) this article from Edutopia gives some tips for helping students use planners.


From time to time, we pick a theme and provide a curated list of links. If you have a theme suggestion, please don’t hesitate to contact us! Occasionally we publish a guest digest, and If you'd like to propose a guest digest click here. Our 5 most recent digests can be found here:

Digest #166: Perfectionism in Education

Digest #167: Should we give up on growth mindset?

Digest #168: Introduction to ChatGPT

Digest #169: Announcing Our New “Ace That Test” Book!! And Other Books We Enjoy

Digest #170: Fun Activities to Reduce Forgetting (and Boredom) over the School Break