Creating the Best Study Environment

It’s easy for students  to avoid  getting started on something that they have no interest in. Avoidance might also come from trouble focusing, not knowing where to start, what to look at, or even how long to study for. It’s not just study techniques that can help –  the environment students create to study can also make a large impact on success. Use these 5 suggestions to create the most effective study environment:

1. Study room

Avoid studying in the bedroom or dorm room.  Let your bedroom be a place to relax and sleep, and take studying to the dorm community room, kitchen, living room, office, or library. Make sure there is plenty of light to keep you alert and focused!

2. Music

If you are someone who needs to have noise in the background, create a study playlist in advance.  Avoid popular songs you’ll want to sing to, and try to keep with the instrumental tracks. Title it “study playlist” so you can easily find it on your app.
3. Snacks and Drinks

Keep it simple- have water close by in case you get thirsty, and a quick snack.  Try pre-packing your snacks in advance even if you are staying in your house to study – that way when you go to grab something, you don’t get distracted.

4. Checklist

Think about what you will need in advance, like your computer charger, calculator, colored pens/highlighters, books, paper, notecards, etc. Have them with you so you don’t have to get up or go back to your room..

5. Distractions

Everything can be a distraction!  Put your phone on the do not disturb/focus feature (check our earlier blog for a how-to),or  hide it across the room. Put blockers on your computer, your headphones on if you are in a shared space, and close your email so you are not tempted to check your inbox.  Have a small goal in mind so you can challenge yourself to stay focused for that short period of time.  

Creating a good study environment is just as important as the study tools you are using.  Plan your study spot in advance so you are not wasting time searching for a good place at the last minute.