Priorities & Planning
What’s one simple tool students can use to plan out their day or week?
What is a planner, calendar, or to-do list?
Why do people often procrastinate even when they know it’ll cause stress later?
Because they want to avoid something uncomfortable — like boredom, fear of failure, or pressure to be perfect.
What’s the number one thing that distracts most students when they’re trying to get work done?
Their phone — especially social media, texts, and notifications.
Why is having a morning or night routine helpful for students?
It builds consistency, reduces stress, and helps your brain know what to expect each day.
What does self-discipline mean?
Doing what needs to be done, even when you don’t feel like it.
This time management technique means setting aside specific chunks of time for certain tasks—like homework, chores, or breaks.
What is time blocking?
What’s the problem with saying “I work better under pressure”?
It’s usually an excuse — rushing at the last minute increases mistakes and stress, not performance.
Why is multitasking (like doing homework while watching Netflix or scrolling TikTok) actually bad for productivity?
Because your brain can only focus on one thing at a time — switching back and forth wastes time and lowers quality.
What are the three parts of a habit loop?
Cue, routine, and reward — something triggers the behavior, you do it, and then you get a payoff.
You plan to study after dinner but your friends invite you to hang out. What’s the self-disciplined choice?
Stick to your plan first, then reward yourself with time to hang out after you’ve met your goal.
** Double Jeopardy **
Why is it helpful to start your day by completing one small task—like making your bed or organizing your backpack?
What is it builds momentum or sets a productive tone for the day?
** Double Jeopardy **
What’s one small action that can help you stop procrastinating and get started on a task?
Break it into smaller steps, set a timer for 10 minutes, or do the easiest part first.
**Double Jeopardy **
What’s one way to create a workspace that helps you stay focused?
Clear your area of distractions, keep only what you need, and set your phone out of reach or on “Do Not Disturb.”
** Double Jeopardy **
What’s the idea behind the “2-Minute Rule” when trying to start a new habit?
If a task takes less than 2 minutes, do it right away — it helps stop procrastination and builds momentum.
** Double Jeopardy **
Why is relying only on “willpower” not enough to stay consistent?
Because willpower fades — strong routines and clear goals help you follow through even when motivation drops.
You have a group project due Friday, a math test Thursday, and work after school every day. How should you decide what to work on first?
What is prioritize based on deadlines and importance (study for the math test first, then work on the project in smaller chunks)?
How does procrastinating on one task affect other areas of your life or schoolwork?
It creates a domino effect — stress builds up, deadlines pile up, and your overall focus drops.
What’s one strategy for handling distractions that pop into your head while working?
Write them down to deal with later so you can stay focused on the task in front of you.
How does doing one small consistent habit (like writing homework down every day) lead to bigger improvements over time?
Small actions build into routines — consistency creates structure and long-term success.
What’s one way to build accountability so you actually stick to your plans?
Tell someone your goal, use a checklist, or track your progress so you’re reminded to follow through.
Why is it not enough to just write tasks down in a planner — what’s the extra step that makes planning actually work?
What is following through and checking the planner regularly (or actually using it to guide your actions)?
What’s one mindset change that helps you overcome procrastination?
Stop waiting to feel motivated — start first, and motivation will follow once you build momentum.
How can tracking your distractions for one day help improve your time management?
It helps you see patterns — when, where, and why you lose focus — so you can make changes that actually work.
What’s something you can do when your routine falls apart or you get off track?
Start fresh the next day — focus on one small step instead of giving up completely.
How does building self-discipline in school prepare you for life after graduation?
It helps you meet deadlines, keep commitments, and stay dependable — skills that employers, colleges, and relationships all value.