To allocate or reserve something, usually time or money, completely for specific purposes so that none of it is left.
example
Ich kann dir leider nicht helfen, mein ganzes Wochenende ist schon verplant.
Unfortunately, I can't help you; my whole weekend is already scheduled up.
Usage tips
Inseparable verb
The verb 'verplanen' has the prefix 'ver-' and is therefore inseparable. The prefix remains firmly attached to the verb in all conjugations and sentence forms.
EXAMPLE
Sie verplant ihr Gehalt immer schon am Anfang des Monats.
She always schedules up her salary right at the beginning of the month.
Context clue
The prefix 'ver-' has two functions here. Without a reflexive pronoun, it means 'to use up completely' (all the money is scheduled/allocated). With a reflexive pronoun ('sich verplanen'), it means to make a mistake.
EXAMPLE
Sein Urlaub ist schon komplett mit Terminen verplant.
His vacation is already completely scheduled up with appointments.
Reflexive use
If you want to express a mistake in planning, you must use the verb reflexively: 'sich verplanen' (to misplan). The reflexive pronoun ('mich', 'dich', 'sich', etc.) is obligatory for this meaning.
EXAMPLE
Wir haben uns mit dem Budget für die Renovierung total verplant.
We totally misplanned the budget for the renovation.
Compare with
near_synonym
verplanen vs einteilen
to divide / manage / assign
'sich etwas einteilen' and 'verplanen' can both have to do with planning time, money, or energy. 'sich etwas einteilen' sounds controlled and economical: you plan in such a way that the available resources last. 'verplanen', on the other hand, often means that time or money has already been fully reserved for specific purposes. Then nothing is left free. 'sich verplanen' also means that you make a mistake in your planning. That is why 'einteilen' is more positive and deliberate, while 'verplanen' often sounds like planning that is too full or incorrect.
verplanen
Mein Wochenende ist schon komplett verplant, deshalb kann ich nicht mitkommen.
My weekend is already completely scheduled up, so I can't come along.
einteilen
Vor der Prüfung teile ich mir die Lernzeit genau ein.
Before the exam, I manage my study time very carefully.