Student Tips: Design an effective study space

Make your study space work for you.

We discussed the importance of establishing a time and a place for studying. In order to concentrate and work effectively, most students require a study space that is free of distractions. By doing this, your concentration improves and learning and retaining material is easier. You already are aware of the specific distractions you must avoid. Use that insight to remove them from the vicinity of your study area.

You already know the keys to a proper study environment. They include common sense ideas and tools. But you need to activate these ideas to get started.

• If possible, make your study table large enough to lay out your books, papers, and study tools.
• You also will need good light in order to read and write. Your study tools should be close by.
• Study aids range from computers to pens and paper for taking notes. A dictionary and calculator should also be available if not included on your computer software. This keeps you from getting up and searching the house for a dictionary every time your need to find the meaning of a word.
• Some individuals prefer to keep all of their study tools in a pack or kit that can be used at school, home, and elsewhere. Such kits might include the usual: pens, pencils, and highlighters; paper and notebooks; a stapler, paper clips, ruler; dictionary and calculator; and, if available, a laptop, electronic tablet, or other helpful tech tool.
• Add your specific study aids and devices to the above where needed. There are multiple study tools such as unique software to help you. Many are free and very helpful. Examples include spell checkers, grammar checkers, and practice tests available online. 

With your study space ready and your tools nearby, you are better able to stay on task. And by removing distractions, your mind and your senses are fully available for learning. But staying focused takes a disciplined effort, especially if the material is dry and not interesting.  

Having a routine time and a well-ordered space to study 

will help boost your performance if used consistently.

Remember to implement the time management tactics discussed in previous blogs, including setting up and maintaining a daily study time.  
                                                                                                                                                                     

There are multiple other tactics available to help with study issues, including test-taking tools and time management tactics. Make sure to exchange ideas with successful students to add to your pool of tactics to enhance your efforts.

For further ideas, blogs, and tactics, check the information available at our website: hightouchlearning.com.