When putting together your calendar or work schedule, be sure to include important dates and build in times to assess your progress. For example, if you know you have to turn in a chapter by May 15, be sure to set aside time the month before (let’s say April 15) to "check in" on your progress. This is a good strategy for making sure you reach your goals and the deadlines you’ve set. By checking in a month ahead of time, you still have enough time to adjust the goal, adjust your working style, or make changes to your approach. For every major dissertation goal you have (completing a chapter, finishing data collection, etc.), be sure to build in regular "checkpoints" to make sure you’re on track to finish as planned.
