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Prepare your study space

A great study space can boost focus, lower stress, and help you get more done. Whether it’s a quiet corner, a shared desk, or something in between, choose a setup that works for you. 

Start by asking what helps you focus best. Do you like background noise or complete silence? Are you more comfortable in a beanbag or at a table?

Think about your study space

It's important to know how noise levels affect you.

  • Do you need total silence, or can you tolerate background noise?
  • Do you prefer to listen to music?
  • Do you learn best by talking through your notes?

If your family or housemates can't leave you alone at home, then consider studying elsewhere. Libraries are reliably quiet places, with various options for those requiring absolute silence to study.

Take an honest look at what distracts you in your environment:

  • Do your housemates encourage you into a night of drinking when you have study to do?
  • Does your family watch TV at a ridiculous volume?
  • Does YouTube or cleaning appeal more when you should be studying? (Sort that one out now: read up on procrastination.)

If you answered ‘Yes’ to any of these distractions, remove them from your study space. Alternatively, consider choosing a space away from them. 

Mobile phones can also be a distraction, so consider turning your messages and ring tone off while you study.

A comfortable space will improve your capacity to learn. If sitting for an hour at a desk causes you physical pain, then look for an alternative. It could be a beanbag, a sit-stand desk, a couch, a kneel-chair, or an ergonomic chair. Think twice about using one you found on the side of the road.  

Also consider temperature. Sitting over a heating vent may be nice for a while but may soon distract you. Similarly, feeling cold to the bone is not conducive to sitting still and concentrating. 

Having access to certain facilities while you study is important. A rumbling stomach or caffeine addiction will surely distract you, so consider studying near a café, or pack a lunchbox and your tea/coffee thermos. Also being located near a bathroom will give you the option to study longer.  

Studying somewhere that provides these basic amenities, like a library, is a good option if you cannot study at home. The university libraries permit you to bring in food and drinks, and they also provide power points and recharging stations for your devices.