The transition from summer vacation to the school year can be abrupt and jarring for many. Having to wake up hours before you’re used to, more assignments than you can keep track of all due at the same time and a lack of motivation all make the first few weeks of the school year feel not so fun. However, as a senior, I have gone through this process many times and have learned some tricks for how to successfully get back into the routine of school.

Step One: Wake up on time

For many, including me, this is the hardest part of the day. You’ve gone from staying up until the morning and then waking up at 10 a.m., 11a.m. or maybe even noon if you’re feeling fancy, to waking up anywhere between 5 and 7 a.m. While I recommend going to bed at a time that will give you at least seven hours of sleep, sometimes an essay has to be written or a show’s cliffhanger has you so enthralled that it simply isn’t possible. The best thing you can do for yourself on those nights is put whatever it is you use as your alarm—whether it be a phone or alarm clock—on the opposite side of the room. This forces you to get up and walk over to the device instead of simply rolling over in your bed to turn off the noise.

Step Two: Keep track of your assignments

Even though many students struggle with this, it is a fairly simple process to fix. Apps you can download to help keep track of assignments are plentiful. Google Calendar, My Homework, Notes and Reminders are all available on school iPads through Self Service and can be used to manage assignments. If you prefer paper, the school supplies each student with a planner they can use. However, if you are like me and feel more motivated to use a planner if it’s pretty, Target is a great place to find a cheap and cute planner. I know it is difficult to stay consistent with using a planner or constantly updating your reminders, but even if you only use one of these techniques for the first month or two, it will make the transition easier for you.

Step Three: Time management

With the upheaval of changing routines and priorities, it can be extremely difficult to organize your time effectively. Procrastination looks more and more appealing as you try to replicate the relaxed summer routine you are accustomed to, but you must resist! One of the best ways to improve back to school time management is creating a schedule. It shows your brain that you have things that need to be completed, instead of allowing yourself to rationalize three hours of doom-scrolling instead of schoolwork. Not every minute needs to be mapped out, but it helps to have a plan for what needs to be done. Another tip is to know your distractions. If you need to turn on do not disturb, do so; if your phone cannot be in the room with you, put it outside the door; if you cannot focus because of your environment, get some music playing. With all of this, ensure you integrate regular breaks (try to keep it less than an hour) to prevent burnout and maintain concentration.

With those small tips said, I hope this helps in at least some capacity. Have a good school year!