Overcoming Deadlines with the Power of Technology

With technology on your side, deadlines will never blindside you again.

by Clint Duff

In the modern world we are all controlled by the clock. From the time we wake up until the time we go to bed, we set all our tasks to specific times of the day. With these countless deadlines we give ourselves, I’m sure some of you reading this have forgotten or missed a few of these deadlines with possible consequences. As I’m writing this, I’ll admit I’ve had experiences of my own.

I walked into a class recently without a care in the world; it was another hour of note taking so why not? However, it all changed when my classmate across from me asked if I finished the assignment due that day. My heart skipped a beat and my view began to narrow out of shock. How could I’ve forgotten such an important deadline when it seemed so obvious? Was there something that could assist me in never failing to forget ever again? During my recovery from my moment of shock my eyes narrowed on a black object in my hand, my own cell phone. Then it hit me, with the correct usage of technology I will never forget a deadline again. To my fellow deadline forgetters, I will share with you three free technologies that can help you not be me!

1. Google Calendar
Google Calendar to me has been a great tool for keeping myself on track. This simple-to-use app allows the user to color code events, *which is great if you love using colors* and set up reminders for any event. This app is available for both Android and iOS operating systems, which allows most cell phone users access. This app has been a great asset in making sure that I don’t forget my deadlines.

2. Writing/typing on smart devices
While this one might seem obvious to some, it never hurts to put this one here. Paired with a Bluetooth keyboard, an individual can actually type just as fast or faster if using a normal keyboard on a computer. This flexibility can be a great asset because this allows anyone to quickly type up a paper or assignment at the last possible minute without fear. This is something I’ll be using in my future.

3. Excel
I can already hear the groans from here but please don’t worry, Excel can be a great help. Unlike a calendar, an individual can create and customize a list of their own deadlines. This can range from using color coding, making specific columns and customizing size. While this program might seem not cool or nerdy to some of us, it can actually be a great help at combating deadlines!

I hope these three small tips can help you overcome your future deadlines as much as they have helped me! Good luck and I wish all the readers the best!