Studying online can be quite challenging in terms of procrastination and productivity. Though it is a more comfortable and convenient option for many of us, it is still much more dependent on your personal traits, self-discipline, time management skills, and concentration. It’s not a surprise that many students find it hard to keep productivity high and steady while studying at home. Here are a few tips that will help you out.
Follow a Schedule
There is one thing that students don’t want to admit – s really helps you to organize your day. Yes, your classes might be not that well scheduled and make you get up too early but at least you have a well-structured day with hours set for studying and for other tasks or chores.
That’s why it’s important to create a schedule of your own when it comes to studying at home. You need to make sure that you are following a schedule that is alike to a common school one. Set the time for when you get up and go to bed, when you are doing your homework, etc.
Imagine that you are going to classes on campus and trying to follow the same daily structure. Getting ready in the morning, preparing for class, having lunch during the break, resting, doing your homework, having a walk, etc. This routine, if you create one, will surely help you to feel much more organized and productive rather than being all over the place during the day and trying to find that inner force to start writing your essay.
Create Rituals and Routines
Some of us really need those rituals that you repeat every single day. Like, washing your face in the morning or choosing your outfit for the day. Rituals and routines help us feel less anxious when there is too much new information to analyze and process – there is always something familiar that we stick to and relieve stress.
You should also find a ritual that will help you get through the day and help you structure your time. It might be anything that allows you to feel both energized and balanced.
Set Up a Study Space
The space where you work and study should be definitely separated from the one where you like to rest at. For example, your bed might be a cozy spot for reading a book but it is surely meant for things like sleeping and resting rather than preparing for an exam.
The trick is that your brain detects the change in your surroundings and tries to adjust to it. The spot that makes you feel sleepy and relaxed is so because you trained your brain that it is where you usually rest. That’s why having a separate desk where you can comfortably study is so important.
Your desk should be cleaned and organized with everything needed next to you. The more comfortable and convenient your work or study place is, the better results you get.
Stay Connected
Connection is the key to feeling a part of a group and community. When studying from home it’s easy to start experiencing loneliness and detachment which can negatively affect your productivity.
Connect with your study pals, college community, professors, and counselors. You can create or join a chat where you and your classmates will discuss studies, interests, and hobbies, as well difficulties and challenges that you all go through. It is a healthy way to address your issues and feelings while having a confirmation that you are not alone in this and other people have the same troubles as well.
Connecting with your professors will also provide you with great opportunities and deeper insight into various topics, learning material, assignment details, etc. It will help you bond and feel less stressed about their personas.
Be Proactive
Sometimes our anxiety makes us stay quiet and unnoticed as it is a natural response to stressful and unclear situations. However, when you want to improve your productivity and your grades, it’s better to find ways to be active and initiative.
Pay attention during online classes and be involved in the discussion even if you don’t feel quite confident. Show that you are interested and motivated. That way you will achieve accountability and respect.
If you experience any concerns or have questions regarding the material, upcoming exams, or assignments, be sure to address them during office hours, via direct emails to your professors, or throughout the online classes.
Check Your Emails Regularly
The frustration that a student experiences when they discover an old email that they missed is freakishly strong. You don’t want to miss a deadline or some important information because you forgot to check your emails, Canvas, or any other information system that your learning institution uses.
Check everything regularly. Be sure to check the syllabus any time you are starting to work on another assignment as there might be important clues and details regarding a particular type of homework.
Prioritize
When studying from home it’s so easy to get distracted by your environment or chores. Many students get absorbed by Netflix, cleaning, PlayStation, or pets, forgetting about their daily priority – studying.
Make sure to create a plan for the day and highlight the tasks that are the most urgent and important. Start with these tasks first, completing the hardest work during the time of the day when you feel fresh and energized. Postpone less important tasks for later when you have more free time and a more relaxed schedule.
Wrapping Up
Staying productive is quite difficult when you are not that confident about your daily schedule or your motivation. But once you know how to address the issues that you face in the studying process and how to do the most when it comes to creating a good study environment, you are surely on the right track. So don’t stop and be sure to use our tips while studying at home.
Karen Palmer
