What is Planning?

Posted In Skills On April 7, 2025

Executive function skills are foundational for student success, and planning is one of the most crucial skills. But what exactly is planning? In the realm of executive function instruction, planning refers to the ability to set goals, create step-by-step plans, and follow through within a designated timeframe. For students in grades 1^st-12^th, developing strong planning skills is essential for academic success.

The Importance of Planning in Student Learning

Students with strong planning skills can break down assignments into manageable steps, estimate how long tasks will take, and allocate their time effectively. These students are more likely to complete their work on time, stay organized, and meet deadlines with minimal stress. They utilize executive function tools like planners, checklists, and digital task managers to stay on track and prioritize their workload.

On the other hand, students who struggle with planning often underestimate the time required to complete assignments, leading to last-minute work and unnecessary frustration. These students frequently forget due dates, struggle with task management, and may feel overwhelmed when faced with complex projects. Without intervention and support, these students may experience a decline in academic performance, reduced student engagement, and an increase in stress levels.

Strategies to Strengthen Students’ Planning Abilities

Fortunately, teaching executive function skills like planning can significantly improve students’ academic performance. Here are some executive function strategies to support students in developing this critical skill:

1. Understanding Time Estimation and Analysis

Students often struggle to gauge how long a task will take. Teachers can improve this ability by:

• Encouraging students to predict how much time a task will take and then track the actual completion time.
• Utilize timers to help students become aware of time passage.
• Implement student strategies like visual schedules and countdowns to improve on-task behaviors.

2. Creating Systems for Managing Tasks and Projects

Effective executive function instruction includes helping students develop structured systems to track their assignments and responsibilities. Teachers can:

• Introduce planners, calendars, and executive functioning tools like filing systems.
• Teach students how to break large tasks into smaller steps.
• Encourage color-coded organization systems or digital reminders for student empowerment.

3. Developing Plans for Time and Goals

Teaching students to create actionable plans for their work increases their efficiency and helps to support task completion. This can be achieved by:

• Have students write out goals and outline the steps to achieve them.
• Teach executive function lessons that focus on goal-setting strategies.
• Encourage student reflection by having students evaluate their plans and adjust them as needed to improve performance.

The Lifelong Impact of Planning Skills

Executive function instruction is not just about helping students complete assignments—it’s about empowering them with lifelong skills. When students learn to plan effectively, they build confidence, reduce stress, and enhance their quality of work. These skills improve student self-awareness, behavior management, and overall academic success.

By incorporating executive function lessons into daily instruction, teachers give students the tools they need to navigate their learning. Planning is an executive function skill that extends beyond the classroom, preparing students for future challenges in both academic and real-world settings.

Additional Resources for Teaching Planning Skills

Looking for ways to model planning skills in your classroom? Click here to explore our blog post on how teachers can model planning as an executive function skill.

Want to learn more about the eight executive function skills covered in the Cerebrate curriculum? Click here to access our comprehensive guide to executive function skills and how they support student success.

By prioritizing executive function instruction and integrating student engagement strategies, teachers can provide students with the essential planning skills they need to thrive. When students understand the importance of planning and are equipped with the right strategies, they gain the ability to take control of their learning and improve their overall performance. Let’s work together to solve executive function challenges and create a structured, supportive environment where students can succeed!