Studying is something most teenagers struggle with. This is unfortunate because there is constantly work to be done and various aspects of life to juggle. Though studying is a pain to do, if you have tools to help you get started in creating healthy, efficient work patterns, then anything is possible. Read on to learn different methods to help you manage your time and remain focused.
Tip #1: Set aside a specific time.
Studying is something very few people legitimately look forward to, and because of that, it is difficult to find the motivation to do it. One great way to increase productivity during the day is to set aside a specific time that is reserved for studying. Routines really do matter. I know there have been plenty of assignments I have turned in that could have been better if I had started earlier and kept up with the project consistently. No one gets their best work done by pulling stressful all-nighters.
Tip #2: Take breaks
When studying, you should allow yourself to take frequent, short breaks to give your brain time to recharge. When studying for a big exam, it is recommended you take breaks every 90 minutes, with shorter snack/water breaks as well. Along with this, experts at the University of Michigan say that taking 10-20 minute naps during stressful studying periods can help increase productivity and motivation.
Tip #3: Prepare your workplace
Preparing your workspace helps when studying because it can reduce stress when trying to find notes, assignments, handouts, and so forth, I recommend setting aside at least seven minutes before studying, just to make sure you know where your materials are. Personally, I find that tidiness does not equate organization. As long as you know where materials are, how you do it is unimportant.
Tip #4: Stay hydrated
I cannot stress the importance of this enough. In any situation, especially when you are working your body or mind, it is crucial to stay hydrated. In fact, psychologists at University of Westminster and University of East London found that 300ml of water has the power to raise attention by almost 25 percent! Scientists have also found that being thirsty is a big distraction, so drinking enough water (approximately 8 ounces every hour or two) can help you remain focused. When i was writing this article I briefly had a not-so-brilliant idea. I decided that I would go to the nearest Walgreens, get a redbull, and stay up late to finish the article. Of course, this is very ironic considering the article is about healthy studying habits. I am also very thankful I didn’t end up doing that because I know my end product wouldn’t be very good, and the redbull would be dehydrating.
Keeping up healthy and efficient study habits is one of the most important things you can do in high school and beyond because they help prevent so much unnecessary stress and not-proficient assignments. I hope this article gave you some ideas and good advice. Until next time!
Ursula Denholm