Finding the right space to study can be one of the most difficult, yet one of the most important things for you to do. If you aren’t comfortable where you are studying then you are going to be less productive, or at least more distracted.
Some people can’t study in the library and feel more comfortable in their dorm room. Some people prefer the hum of a coffee shop or being outside. There are a few key things that all study spaces should have specialized to you.
Adequate lighting
You might not think about it, but lighting plays a big part in how productive you are. If a room is too dim it can make it difficult to stay awake if you may have already had a long day. Or it can make you sleepy all of a sudden. Too bright of lighting can cause a headache or be distracting. Soft lighting is best for long study sessions, and it will give you just enough light to read or work on a computer.
If you are prone to headaches while working for a long time on the computer, try blue light blocking glasses. They only cost a few dollars, but work like a charm. It will dim the blue light on your screen that causes eye strain and headaches. Put adequate lighting and these glasses together and you will be good to go for hours of studying. But remember, you should limit the amount of time you stare at digital devices to help decrease this discomfort as well. Take 20 minute breaks every hour to help relieve your eyes from the digital world.
Least amount of distractions
Everyone has different things that distract them. It could be people moving around, but it could also be silence. Some people get distracted in their own thoughts, but others need music or loud sounds in order to focus. Learn and acknowledge your distractions. Be willing to actively admit to yourself that these things are not helping you be as productive as you can.
You can limit these distractions by wearing headphones if sound is your issue, or work in the back corner of a room if people watching is what you catch yourself doing. If listening to music helps you get things done, then have at it. Just make sure you are sticking to task, but if you catch yourself slipping, make sure to re-evaluate and find another solution.
A plan
It might seem simple, or even to some, unnecessary, but having a plan for your study session can keep you productive and on track. Sometimes it is inevitable especially during midterms or finals, but you don’t want to study too much in one night and cram your brain with too much information. It can be detrimental to your study session if you do.
A plan can be as simple as setting aside a certain amount of time for each subject, or as complex as color coding every note per subject. It’s really up to you and what works best. You might have to try out a few things to see what works for you, but you will eventually figure it out.
