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How to Smarten Up Your Study Space

It’s back to school time, and that means it’s time to brace yourself for some serious homework. You’ll have worksheets to complete, essays to write, tests to study for. Whatever homework you have, you’ll need somewhere to complete it. Here are some tips on how to smarten up your study space.

Ask yourself these questions when you’re choosing or designing a study space: Do I have enough room to spread out my books? Is the lighting decent? Is it a quiet space without distractions?

Room to Stretch Out

Sitting cross-legged in the hallway isn’t going to cut it. And neither is your couch. An appropriate study space should offer you room to spread your books out. A table or desk would be best. When you’re choosing a spot, make sure you have materials like spare paper, pencils and a hole-punch in arms reach. The more you have to get up, the easier it is to become distracted, and the longer it will take to finish your studying.

Comfortable Space

A comfortable study space doesn’t mean lying in bed or lounging on a couch. Find a comfortable office or dining chair and bring it to your work table. And make sure you have decent lighting. Sometimes the overhead light isn’t going to cut it; you may also need a lamp. Reading in dim light is not only bad for your eyes, but it’ll also make you sleepy.

Avoid Distractions

School hallways, cafeterias and classrooms can be full of distractions, from noise to your friends’ chit-chatting. And with a house full of siblings, home may be no better. Find a quiet place like your local library or café (or even your bedroom) that has little to no noise. And don’t give into distractions like eavesdropping, watching TV or eating. It’ll just make your homework take longer.