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Procrastination; Breaking Bad Habits

Written by: Martin Winkler
First version: 22 Jul 2008. Latest version: 24 Aug 2008.

Abstract:

Why do students procrastinate?

Question:

What is Procrastination?
Why do I procrastinate?

I am a 27 year old student (medicine) and I avoid doing a task till the very very last minute. I should take some tests for my final exam next spring. But I tend to procrastinate and I am afraid that I will not be prepared for the exam. I think I am the only student who is not able to face this problem...

Answer:

Dear student!

No, you are not the only one. As a matter of fact more than 90% of all students procrastinate in one way or the other. For about 25% of all students this may cause severe problems and a drop out of college or university without exam.

There are many reasons for procrastination. Procrastination is the avoidance of doing a task which needs to be done. There are different reasons for this avoidance behaviour. Sometimes there are even neurobiological based reasons (e.g. ADHD =Attention deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) but the main reasons are deficits of skills for time managment and general study skills.

Once procrastination started feelings of guilt, inadequacy or self-doubt will cause additional problems. If you feel low and depressed (or anxious) your attitude to achieve the final goal will be negative. Antixipatory anxiety may also have an influence, if you already missed exams.

All colleges or universities offer special help for students with this kind of problems. You can learn to overcome procrastination within a couple of session. But: do not procrastinte to look for help... Start right now... Here are some more information and links to stress managment, time managment and study skills provided by the University of Buffalo More.

More Information
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