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What Are Time-Blocking Strategies? 

Author: Phoebe Carter, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Time blocking is a simple but powerful method for boosting focus and getting more done. Instead of working through an endless to-do list, you assign specific blocks of time to each task or category of tasks. This creates structure, reduces decision fatigue, and improves follow-through, especially helpful for those who struggle with attention or procrastination. 

A Smarter Way to Structure Your Day 

As a productivity technique, time blocking turns your calendar into a visual plan for your day. By scheduling tasks in advance, you reduce the mental effort of figuring out “what to do next” and create protected windows of scheduling focus. 

Here’s how it works: 

Plan daily blocks:  

Allocate set time periods for emails, deep work, admin, breaks, and meetings. 

Theme your days:  

Group similar tasks together (e.g. “creative mornings,” “admin afternoons”) to reduce context switching. 

Include buffer time:  

Leave space between blocks to handle overruns or quick resets. 

Respect your rhythms:  

Schedule demanding tasks when your energy is highest, and lighter ones during lulls. 

Adjust as needed:  

Flexibility is key, review and update your blocks daily to stay realistic. 

Time blocking helps transform your day from reactive to intentional. It’s especially effective for managing overwhelm, staying accountable, and building momentum. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to better understand how brain imaging can inform ADHD treatment.  

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD difficulty concentrating.  

Phoebe Carter, MSc
Author

Phoebe Carter is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Applied Psychology. She has experience working with both children and adults, conducting psychological assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and delivering evidence-based therapies. Phoebe specialises in neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, and learning disabilities, as well as mood, anxiety, psychotic, and personality disorders. She is skilled in CBT, behaviour modification, ABA, and motivational interviewing, and is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care to individuals of all ages.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy. 

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk
Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS
Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.