Breaks are definitely a major part about beating stress, but to avoid the stress, I try to start as early as I can. As soon as I get an assignment, I read the requirements and get an understanding of what I have to do. If it’s a programming assignment, I’ll start writing out my classes and comments. If it’s math homework, I’ll do at least 2 or 3 problems. That way, there is just one less thing to do the next time you pick up the assignment.

Another strategy I like to deal with procrastination is a little counter-intuitive, but works. I don’t know if it has a name, but simply put, if you need to work on a project, just get prepared to do the smallest amount you can. For instance, if you need to write a paper, sit down, get all your resources you need out for it, and write a single word. You’ll end up writing more than just that word. I think this works by getting over the fear of a huge project and breaking the first step down to just a single word.