Time Management Strategies in Graduation Projects: Systematic  Scheduling vs. “All-Nighter” Culture

Mahasen AlKahwaji; Sara Alansary; Sara AlSakkaf; Gadi Saad; Sara AlHammadi

doi:10.38027/ICCAUA2026EN0538

Authors

Mahasen AlKahwaji Department of Architecture, College of Engineering, Al Yamamah University, Riyadh, KSA
Sara Alansary Department of Architecture, College of Engineering, Al Yamamah University, Riyadh, KSA
Sara AlSakkaf Department of Architecture, College of Engineering, Al Yamamah University, Riyadh, KSA
Gadi Saad Department of Architecture, College of Engineering, Al Yamamah University, Riyadh, KSA
Sara AlHammadi Department of Architecture, College of Engineering, Al Yamamah University, Riyadh, KSA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.38027/ICCAUA2026EN0538

Keywords:

Time Management, Systematic Scheduling, All-Nighter Culture, Graduation Projects, Architecture Education, Student Stress, Saudi Vision 2030

Abstract

Time management plays a critical role in students’ success and their readiness for professional practice. This study examines the impact of structured planning compared to all-nighter work habits among Architecture, Industrial Engineering, and Software Engineering students in Saudi universities during their graduation projects. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted across 212 students. The findings indicate that frequent all-nighters are associated with higher academic stress, while structured scheduling is linked to improved perceptions of time control. Although students who slept less than three hours during intensive work periods reported higher subjective satisfaction, this appeared to reflect the perceived effort intensity rather than the quality of work or overall well-being. The study further identifies a gap between students’ intended planning strategies and their actual work behaviours. In alignment with Saudi Vision 2030, the study recommends structured scheduling practices to better equip students with the skills required to meet evolving industry demands.