Do you find it hard to concentrate when having to study at home? Finding a better place to study may be your answer. Keep reading for a guide to creating the perfect study space, complete with setup and personal touches. We also consulted with academic and test prep tutors for tips on how to best organize a space free from distractions.
How to Create a Study Space
Academic tutor Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed., suggests finding a quiet, distraction-free spot tailored to your needs. One way to start eliminating distractions is by putting your phone away. Other tips on making an effective study space:
- Make sure the space has ample privacy so you can concentrate.
- Stock your space with supplies and keep them organized.
- Keep a clock and/or calendar in view so you don’t lose track of time.
- Block out any noise that might distract you from your work.
- Personalize your space so it’s a warm and welcoming place to study.
Steps
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Community Q&A
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QuestionWhat sorts of supplies do I need?Community AnswerThis will depend on what you are studying. You should, at the very least, have a pad of paper and some pens or pencils. If you are studying from a textbook, you might also want to have a highlighter. If you are studying math, then you might also want to have a calculator.
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QuestionWhat things should be in my table in my study space?Community AnswerKeep only the items you absolutely need to study, like a pen, pencil, lamp and paper. Limit distractions by only keeping study supplies nearby.
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QuestionWould a study nook help me focus when studying?Community AnswerMost likely. In a nook, you are tucked away from distractions and surrounded by study stuff, so it's a good environment for focusing on your academics.
Reader Videos
Tips
References
- ↑ https://athenianschools.com/how-do-i-create-a-study-space-in-my-home-for-my-student/
- ↑ Bryce Warwick, JD. Test Prep Tutor, Warwick Strategies. Expert Interview
- ↑ https://www.utep.edu/extendeduniversity/utepconnect/blog/april-2017/7-ways-to-organize-your-study-space-for-success.html
- ↑ https://www.physiomed.co.uk/uploads/guide/file/22/Physiomed_Sitting_Guide_-_Working_at_a_Desk_Digital.pdf
- ↑ https://on.abdn.ac.uk/discover/how-to-create-a-great-study-space-for-online-learning/
- ↑ https://www.niagaracollegetoronto.ca/blog/six-ways-to-create-your-ideal-study-space-at-home
- ↑ https://www.herzing.edu/blog/6-tips-create-perfect-study-environment
- ↑ Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed.. Educational Consultant. Expert Interview
- ↑ https://hbr.org/2019/03/the-case-for-finally-cleaning-your-desk
- ↑ Alexander Ruiz, M.Ed.. Educational Consultant. Expert Interview
- ↑ https://sites.rhodes.edu/academic-and-learning-resources/news/productivity-time-chunking-method
- ↑ https://usq.pressbooks.pub/academicsuccess/chapter/study-space/
- ↑ https://cognitiveresearchjournal.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s41235-020-00243-4
- ↑ https://usq.pressbooks.pub/academicsuccess/chapter/study-space/
- ↑ https://www.educationcorner.com/study-motivation-tips/
- ↑ https://www.fnu.edu/7-techniques-improve-study-habits/
- ↑ https://guides.lib.uoguelph.ca/c.php?g=697430&p=5011747
- ↑ https://learningcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/take-charge-of-distractions/
- ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/memory-medic/201706/does-white-noise-help-you-learn-0
- ↑ https://liberalarts.tamu.edu/blog/2021/03/10/does-listening-to-music-really-help-you-study/
- ↑ https://info.lse.ac.uk/current-students/Assets/Articles/8-super-study-snacks
About This Article
To make a study space, start by setting yourself up with a sturdy desk or table, and a comfortable chair in a spot with good lighting. Then, stock your space with supplies you may need, like notecards and highlighters, and use folders or binders to organize your study materials. Try to keep your desk or table neat and tidy so you can focus on the work in front of you. Additionally, personalize your space with pictures, posters, or signs that motivate you, such as a picture of the car you hope to get when you graduate. For tips from our Academic co-author on how to avoid distractions when you study, keep reading!
Reader Success Stories
- "This article gave me another perspective on how I could study more efficiently and effectively and not focus so much on trying to remember and not forgetting. Having a great environment to study in and keeping everything organized is significant." ..." more