Pick the right study environment.
Remember that the right study environment for someone else may not be the best environment
for you.
Picking the right study environment means picking a place where you feel "in the zone"
and free of distractions.
Some people like to study with some background noise, while others need to study in absolute
silence.
Before you pick the perfect place to study, run a reconnaissance mission to find the right
place.
Here are some things to consider when choosing the best environment for you:
Pick a place that is free of distractions.
Avoid being around a television or going to places where people are engaging in laughter
and fun conversations.
If the Internet is a big distraction for you but you need a computer to study, pick a place
that does not have Wifi.
You can study in your dorm, but don't do it if your roommate is always around and you'd
rather be talking to him than study for your big test.
If you are studying in your dorm, close the door or put up a sign to let people know that
they shouldn't just pop in on you.
Pick a place with the right noise level.
If you like absolute silence, go to a library.
You will also be surrounded by fellow students, which will motivate you to study more.
If you like some background noise, try a low-key cafe.
Pick a place that is well-lit.
A coffee shop with dim lighting may look cooler, but it will hurt your eyes and make it easier
for you to fall asleep.
Pick a place that isn't too hot.
Infernal temperatures will make you want to curl up and take a nap.
Pick a place that is pleasantly cool so you can stay alert.
Find a place that really helps get you "in the zone."
This is harder to describe, but you'll know it when you see it.
This will be a place where you feel sharp, unstoppable, and motivated as soon as you
walk in the door.
You may even have a favorite chair or study nook in your study hall or library that really
does this trick for you.
Find what works and stick to it.
If you feel that music helps you concentrate then create a playlist on your phone or an
music player device in order to avoid temptation to use your computer and browse other websites.
If you are listening to music, make sure that it is something relaxing that encourages you
to calm yourself and focus on what you are doing, sometimes it is preferable to listen
to more relaxing music without lyrics as your brain will automatically focus on following
the lyrics instead of reading and remembering what is in your textbook.
Research has shown that it is beneficial to study in an area where nature is in close
proximity.
Consider decorating your study area with a few plants or flowers in order to maintain
a balance between studying and at the same time appreciate nature around you.
Remember that the time of day that you study is just as important as the environment.
If you're an early bird and think best in the morning, maximize your morning
study time.
If you're a night owl and concentrate best after the sun sets, then get into the groove
then.
If you prefer studying during the night, it is important to make sure that
you get enough sleep as your brain needs to be well rested in order to function properly.
It is recommended to select a study area that is not in your bedroom, this is due to the
fact that you will associate that area with concentrating and studying, while you will
then associate your bedroom with resting or spending your free time.
Make sure that you don't spend all day in one room as it is good to switch things up
eventually.
Bring the right things.
Once you pick your dream study spot, you'll need to bring the munitions you need to keep
you going.
Knowing what to bring to get your study on is just as important as knowing what not to
bring.
When you figure out exactly what you need, you can even write a checklist so you know
what works for you every time.
Study with a variety of methods.
Studying by using a variety of methods will help you reach a deeper understanding of the
material and will also help you mix up your studying habits and will keep things interesting.
Use your resources.
When you study, don't forget that a wealth of resources are available to you beyond just
your textbook and notes.
If you're studying, then you must be in school, and schools will have a variety of resources
to help you make your studying as effective as possible.
Take breaks.
Remember that taking breaks is just as important
as focusing on your studies.
The mind does better when you take a short break every half hour to an hour.
This helps you absorb material and decompress, and will
get your mind feeling fresh for more studying.
If you
study
for six hours without stopping, you
will give yourself
a headache.