(DegreeAdvisers.com) – The secret to creating a successful study space is not always a one-size-fits-all solution. Everyone is different, and what works for you may not work for someone else. That said, if you’re having trouble concentrating while working or studying, there are a few tips that can help you stay more productive and organized.
Designate One Place for Studying
First things first — it’s time to choose a study space. This is the place you’ll study every day. Why? Because it’s often easier for people to concentrate on work in a place that’s designated for work. Have you ever tried to study or do homework in your bedroom and found yourself constantly distracted?
Trying to muster creativity and conversation in a place designed for relaxation can be challenging, so it can help to find a different spot — a place you can go where your brain will say, “Aha!” and enter study mode immediately.
Get Comfortable
On one hand, studying in uncomfortable temperatures while sitting in a rock-hard chair probably isn’t the best way to retain information. But you also don’t want to be so comfortable that you start feeling drowsy or losing motivation.
It’s important to find a balance. If that means getting dressed in the morning, walking down to the library and claiming a cozy chair or setting up a comfortable desk at home, so be it. What matters is that you feel energized and ready to get the job done.
Control the Lighting
Did you know that lighting can have an effect on your brain? Some research has shown that working under warmer light can enhance your creativity, while colder light can increase your concentration.
You can experiment with different types of light to figure out what works for you. If you’re able to sit by a window, that’s even better. It’s hard to go wrong with sunlight.
Reduce Distractions
Distractions can make studying seem almost impossible. If you’ve ever tried to study with other people around, your phone nearby or other stressors on your mind, you know what I mean. Distractions can cause you to procrastinate for hours on end, to the point where you don’t realize how much time you’ve wasted until it’s too late.
It’s important to create an environment where you can reduce distractions as much as possible. Turning your phone off, cutting out noise and keeping interruptions to a minimum can help. In some cases, you may be able to prepare for interruptions as well.
Prepare Everything You Need
Have you ever sat down to study and then stood up again about five times over the next hour because you realized you needed something? It’s pretty distracting, right?
That’s why it helps to prepare everything you need ahead of time. This includes all your materials, whether you need books, a laptop, a pen or pad of paper. Maybe you like to have a drink of water nearby or a pillow for your back. Whatever it is, setting it all up before you start can save time and prevent you from breaking concentration.
Every study routine is unique, but you can find one that works for you by applying these tips. The place you choose to study is just as important as the methods you use. Keep working at it, and you could become a college study pro in no time!
~Here’s to Your Success!
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