Final answer:
Steve is using backward planning by using the due date to schedule daily reading sessions for a novel, ensuring the task is completed on time and avoiding last-minute cramming.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student using backward planning is Steve, who utilizes the due date to plan daily reading of a novel. Backward planning involves starting with the end goal in mind and working backwards to determine the steps needed to reach that target. In Steve's case, he establishes the finish line (the due date of the novel reading) and plans daily increments of reading to ensure the task is completed on time. This is much different from a student like Tanya, who procrastinates until the night before a test to study, illustrating poor planning habits. Backward planning is an effective organizational strategy that can help students manage large tasks by distributing the workload over a series of smaller, more manageable steps, thus avoiding the stress of last-minute cramming and enhancing the quality of their work.
Another excellent example of this planning method is creating a concise outline before each exam to encapsulate the main ideas discussed in class, as recommended for successful studying habits. This step-by-step approach breaks down a substantial task into smaller segments, allowing for more thorough preparation and understanding of the material. It contrasts with actions such as cramming the night before a test, which often leads to poor performance and increased anxiety.