The question of when and where is the best place to study is one of those questions that doesn’t have a one size fits all answer. Some may find it easier to study when they first get up in the morning verses later in the day. Some may study better by themselves and others find it more helpful to study with a group. Remember: each student is unique, and because of that their most effective studying method will also be unique to them. Have your students answer the following questions to figure out their unique study time and place.
To decide how you study best, consider the following questions:
- At what time of day are you most alert and focused? Your answer is probably when you should study.
- Are you more motivated if you get the hardest stuff done first, or is it better if you work up to it by finishing the easier tasks first?
- What motivates you to keep going? Try tracking your grades, rewarding yourself when you finish something, or getting a friend to keep you on track (“nagging rights”).
- Do you study better with others or alone?
- Does quiet background music distract you or help keep you focused?
Stupendous Study Spaces
Despite being unique, we all need to keep the basics in mind. It’s helpful, for example, to have a consistent study area. Good study areas have:
- Peace and quiet. Quiet background music might work, but avoid loud distracting music, and never study in front of the TV.
- Good lighting. Candlelight isn’t the best choice.
- A moderate temperature. Too warm will make you drowsy; too cold is just miserable.
- A comfortable chair, but not too comfortable. A beanbag chair isn’t the best choice (and neither is your bed); try something comfortable, but with good back support.
- A clean work space. Keep things neat and tidy so you know where to find the things you need.
- The necessary tools. Always have the basics handy: pens, pencils, a calculator, a dictionary, scrap paper, and your planner.
Don’t forget that your school or public library can be a great study place too.
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