Q&A for How to Stop Sleeping in Class

Simple things like tapping your foot to a tune, squeezing a stress ball, or doodling can give your brain something to focus on and wake you back up. Just make sure whatever you do isn't distracting you from paying attention in class!

You might need more sleep. If you're a teenager, you should be getting around 10 hours of sleep per night. Young adults should aim for at least 8 to 9 hours of sleep per night. Everyone's different, so you can find the sleep schedule that works best for you.

Try to study early in the day so you aren't forcing yourself to stay awake and study. Set up a dedicated study space (like a desk) so you don't have to sit in your bed. Take breaks when you need to and try drinking water to wake yourself up.

Coffee beans can give you a quick burst of energy, but caffeine isn't a great long-term solution. Constantly using caffeine to stay awake can make it hard to fall asleep at night, which can lead to even more sleepiness. It's better to get enough sleep before you go to class so you aren't sleepy.

You're probably getting sleepy because you don't find the material all that interesting. That's totally fine--not every subject will be your favorite. Try to find a way to make the work more engaging. Take notes when your teacher talks, hold study groups with your friends, and participate in class discussions to keep yourself awake.