How to change my study habits and be diligent

Great question and congratulations on pursuing higher learning. You've made it this far so don't doubt yourself that you can make it farther. School and studying comes easier to some than others. Some people just work better under pressure and need to allow themselves the time and space to do more until closer to deadlines. But sometimes what happens is we get overwhelmed by all that we have to do and when we are overwhelmed we cope by we avoiding it for as long as possible. It can help when you are assigned a task to take the time to break that task or assignment down into very small steps. Like if it's a paper that is due then write down all the steps and set mini-deadlines for each task.

Example:

1. Identify the topic

2. Gather resources

3. Create an outline

4. Write a Draft

5. Review and Edit

6. Write a 2nd Draft

7. Review and Edit

8. Complete Final Draft

9. Turn in Paper

Once you have an initial breakdown, see if you can break those into smaller steps or goals. Breaking those down into even smaller tasks,

Example: Gather Resources

Step 1: Look through already provided material that is geared towards your topic

Step 2: Make note cards based off the provided material

Step 3: Do an initial search from credited online resources

Step 4: Make note cards based off online resources

Try identifying ahead of time, where you'll be getting your material and set a date for each step for it to be completed by. And then scheduling time, within your schedule, to review the material. By setting small deadlines for small tasks, instead of viewing the project as a whole, it tends to feel more manageable and less daunting. This can also be done with studying habits. Try making an outline for how you are going to study, schedule study time and study in small amounts instead of cramming. Some schools offer seminars on creating healthy study habits, maybe see if there is one available to you. If there isn't look online, look for different study plans that have been created on blogs or shared on youtube or educational websites. The best plan is finding one that works for you, not trying to make you work for one. Some people study better with background music, some need silence, some need music with lyrics, some need white noise. None of those options are wrong, they're just different and help in different ways. You know you better than anyone, identify what is going to support you and help you succeed. 

I hope this has been helpful. You should be proud of yourself for reaching out and trying to improve your habits, it's not easy but it's possible. Recognize your strengths and goals for yourself, be kind and understanding that sometimes it takes time to figure these things out but you are making great strides!