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Time Management Activity : Arrange the Cards

Time Management Activity: Arrange the Cards

Category: Games & Activities
Time Required: 25 minutes
Tools: One deck of playing cards per group, stopwatch or timer

Overview

This fun and fast-paced activity helps participants grasp the real value of planning and delegating in time management. It’s highly engaging and brings out natural teamwork and strategy development through friendly competition.

Setup Instructions

  1. Split your group into teams of 4–6 participants each.
  2. Give each team a full deck of playing cards.
  3. Explain that their task is to lay out all 52 cards in neat, non-touching rows, grouped and arranged according to the rules you will give them. (see image below). 
  4. Allow each group 5 minutes to practice, strategize, and prepare.
  5. After the 5-minute prep, have each team submit a time estimate for how long they think it will take them to complete the task.
  6. Run the timed round and record each team’s performance. Repeat for two more rounds, encouraging teams to refine their strategy each time.

Rules

  • All cards must be laid out in tidy rows, with no overlaps or touching.
  • Teams can use any materials in the room to assist with planning or spacing.
  • Time only starts when the facilitator signals the beginning and stops when the last card is placed correctly.

Debrief & Discussion

After each round, discuss the following with the group:

  • What changes did you make between rounds?
  • How did planning affect your performance?
  • What was the role of delegation in improving efficiency?
  • What parallels can we draw from this activity and real work scenarios?

The core takeaway is that planning and smart division of labor significantly reduce wasted time and effort. Without a strategy, even simple tasks become chaotic. With a good plan, teams accomplish more with less stress and energy.

Trainer Tips

This activity is perfect for energizing sessions on Time Management, teamwork, or project planning. It can also double as a team-building energizer. Make sure to debrief thoroughly after the final round to reinforce the learning points.

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