Here’s a checklist for students with executive functioning weaknesses that can help them stay organized and manage their tasks effectively:

Establish a routine: Set consistent daily routines for waking up, going to bed, studying, and engaging in extracurricular activities. Stick to a regular schedule to develop a sense of structure and predictability.
Use a planner or digital calendar: Keep track of assignments, deadlines, exams, and other important dates. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps and schedule them accordingly.
Create a to-do list: Make a daily or weekly to-do list of tasks and prioritize them based on urgency and importance. Use a checklist format to track completed tasks and stay motivated.
Break tasks into smaller parts: When faced with a complex task or project, break it down into smaller, more manageable components. This approach makes it easier to get started and maintain focus throughout the process.
Set specific goals: Clearly define what needs to be accomplished and set realistic goals for each task or assignment. This helps in maintaining focus and measuring progress.
Use visual aids and reminders: Utilize visual cues like sticky notes, color-coded folders, or visual schedules to provide visual reminders and prompts for important tasks and deadlines.
Use organizational tools: Explore digital tools and apps designed for task management, note-taking, and organization. Examples include Trello, Evernote, Google Keep, or Microsoft OneNote.
Practice time management: Break down study or work sessions into manageable chunks of time and use a timer or stopwatch to keep track of time spent on each task. Take short breaks in between to recharge and refocus.
Eliminate distractions: Minimize environmental distractions by finding a quiet and well-organized workspace. Use website blockers or apps that limit access to distracting websites or social media during study or work periods.
Develop study strategies: Experiment with different study techniques, such as summarizing information in your own words, creating flashcards, or teaching concepts to others. Find strategies that work best for your learning style and implement them consistently.
Seek support and ask for help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to teachers, counselors, or learning support services for assistance. They can provide guidance, resources, and accommodations tailored to your needs.
Take care of yourself: Prioritize self-care activities such as regular exercise, healthy eating, getting enough sleep, and practicing stress reduction techniques like mindfulness or deep breathing exercises. Taking care of your physical and mental well-being is essential for optimal executive functioning.

Remember, everyone’s needs and strengths are different, so feel free to customize this checklist to suit your specific requirements. It may also be helpful to involve a teacher, parent, or mentor in reviewing and adapting this checklist to ensure its effectiveness.

Resources

ADDitude – Inside the ADHD Mind
ADDitude is an ADHD magazine, community & website dedicated to strategies and support for individuals and families living with ADD and related conditions.

Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD)
The nation’s leading nonprofit organization serving people affected by ADHD.

Attention Deficit Disorder Association
The world’s largest organization dedicated exclusively to helping adults with ADHD to live better lives.

Totally ADD
Dedicated to helping adults with ADHD and those affected by it to liberate themselves from fear, shame, and stigma and create a life they love.

Smart but Scattered Teen
This book guide provides a science-based program promoting teens’ independence by building their executive functioning skills.

Thriving with ADHD Workbook
This workbook includes a variety of proven methods to manage ADHD symptoms.

What Your ADHD Child Wishes You Knew
This book provides a positive approach to parenting children and teens with ADHD.

ADHD 2.0
This book provides updated science and guidance on living a successful and happy life with ADHD.