If you are struggling to focus during your study periods, it could say more about your environment than it does about you. You might not think so, but factors like light, noise and comfort can have a big impact on the learning process.
So, how does your environment affect studying? Having a quiet and peaceful study space is hugely beneficial for when it’s time to study. If you haven’t thought about it already, here are some of the ways you can enjoy a good study environment:
Study environment tips:
- Remove any distractions
- Make yourself comfortable
- Put up words of inspiration
- Reassess your lighting
- Keep snacks and water nearby
- Make a designated study space
Remove any distractions
Let’s face it – if your study space is positioned in front of a huge TV or games console, not a lot of work is going to get done. Your first priority when creating your study space should be location – where is the most secluded area of the room, a place where you can ensure minimal interruptions? You should aim to keep this area of your room as tidy and uncluttered as possible to keep your mind clear and focussed. If the study space you have at home isn’t doing it for you, consider making the move to your library!
Make yourself comfortable
When it comes to creating a perfect study environment, your comfort is everything. Just think – if you feel uncomfortable while studying, you’ll just be more tempted not to do it! So whether you get yourself a comfy study chair, an arm rest, or a foot stool, do whatever you can to make your study zone a cozy place to be. However, don’t get too comfortable – studying in bed will only make you fall asleep!
Put up something that inspires you
Without something to motivate you, those long days of studying can get pretty miserable. If you are someone who struggles with motivation, try and surround yourself with things that inspire you. This could be something as simple as some words of affirmation, an inspirational poster, or a photo of the holiday you’ll get to enjoy when exam season is over. It might sound corny, but having something that inspires you will make a big difference when it’s time to study.
Reassess your lighting
After a while, staring at a bright white screen can make your eyes tired, while disrupting your sleeping pattern. So if you are someone who does your studying at the dead of night without lighting, it’s time to switch it up. If you haven’t already, invest in some gentle light fixtures like small lamps or desk lights to get into study mode. And if you are studying during the day, don’t underestimate the power of natural light!
Keep snacks and water nearby
When you are struggling to get into study mode, anything becomes an excuse not to study. So if your stomach starts rumbling, leaving your room for study fuel will feel like a godsend. Want to avoid this distraction completely? Why not keep your snacks and water close to hand? You’ll never have a reason to leave your study space again (unless of course, you need the toilet or some fresh air!)
Make a designated study space
One of the most crucial parts of studying is creating the perfect environment to do it. This should be a dedicated area designed for studying and nothing else. Resist the urge to turn your study place into a place to watch Netflix or play games. Get into the habit of using this area just for studying, and your brain will know when it’s time to get in the zone.
Looking for a perfect space to study? With Every Student, you can land an affordable student room that comes complete with a study desk, lamp, and rapid Wi-Fi. With locations in Aberdeen and Southampton, our rooms start at just £83 per week!
