Good Study Habits
Set a regular time to study.
- Give yourself a break from your school day before you begin to study.
- Consult your calendar so there are no conflicts to study time.
- Determine how long you will study and how you will divide your time based on what work you have to complete.
- Don't skip your study time. Would you simply not show up for sports or music lessons?
- Take studying seriously.
Remove Distractions!
- Select a space that is designed for study. This area should be used only for studying and not for eating or sleeping. Hence, your bed or kitchen table might not be the best choice.
- Remove games, toys, and/or video games. While these are all good for relaxation they are not good for studying. They require a great deal of attention and will decrease your ability to concentrate on what you are studying.
- Turn off the television. It is a great misconception that you can "multi-task" by watching TV and studying. Effective studying requires a great deal of uninterrupted attention.
- Avoid lyrical music. While it is very common for students to listen to music while studying, often times they are listening to the wrong kind of music. Lyrical music (containing vocalizations) can be distracting, with temptations to sing along, while non-lyrical music can improve your focus and keep your mind stimulated.
- Study where there aren't other people who are NOT studying. One of the most common distractions can be other people's voices. Even though you might not be actively listening to them, their voice alone can effect your ability to concentrate.
- Beware of the internet. All too often students become distracted with other websites that can take up all your time and prohibit you from studying. Unless the internet is needed for your assignment, do not use the internet.
Have all necessary supplies ready and available.
- Look at what you will be studying and get only those needed supplies. Don't get markers or crayons if you won't be using them. They will only act as a distraction.
- Wear comfortable clothing so that you aren't tugging at a belt or tight shoes.
- Eat a meal or have a snack prior to studying so your blood sugar levels contribute to your attention span.
Use your planner or assignment notebook.
- Plan out your study time. Know what is due when and plan accordingly. Don't study everything - every time.
- Use your planner. Mark due dates and study times. Use reminders.