Over the years, I've had the privilege of teaching many students. It has been an absolutely amazing experience to see each student grow in their abilities and mature into wonderful musicians and people! As a teacher, one thing I've observed that is essential for enhancing the learning process in every student is a practice routine.
When talking to students about a routine, I often have them map out their practice by writing down how much time are they spending on scales, new technique exercises, reviewing previous material, and learning new material. A beginner should break down their practice time in the following way:
30 minute practice:
10 minutes on scales and technique exercises
10 minutes on previously learned material
10 minutes on new material
This simple routine is a great way for beginning players to become familiar with the idea of practicing with a purpose, which is always lacking whenever we pick up the instrument and start “noodling." As with anything, you can personalize the routine and expand on the amount of time spent on each section. This should definitely be expanded to at least an hour for more advanced players.
As you begin organizing your practice with a routine, remember that it is imortant to set weekly practice goals. These can be simple like “I will play scales at 100bpm with eighth notes" or “I will learn a new Carcassi Etude.” Whatever your goals are, make sure to write them down! Keep track of your goals with a practice joiurnal or planner! You can find my digital practice planner here https://stringwerx.com/product/923860.
Logging your practice is also a great way to monitor your progress! I always love showing students their previouis goals set in their planners. It provides them with the comfort in knowing how fasr they've come and what they once found difficult is now easy! This can be a huge confidence booster or students who are in a rut with their practice, or feel like they haven't made much progress.
I hope this helps you with your playing and studies!!