With the ever-changing world, there often comes a time when we’re studying from home or working independently, and it’s a great skill to have – being able to get things done without a formal structure, take it all in and most importantly not get distracted. And here are our tips for doing exactly that!
Set up a dedicated study space
Even if you don’t have room for an office, you need to have a space which is for studying and studying only. Be it a desk in the corner of your room, a particular spot at the dining table or somewhere else – it has to be somewhere that you associate with studying and/or working. Don’t work from your bed or in front of the TV, or with your flatmates chilling there next to you. It’s all about focus!
Get some noise cancelling headphones for studying from home
Whether you play anything through them or not, noise cancelling headphones are an amazing way to block out everything else going on around you. If you don’t want silence, find something to play which doesn’t provide too much of a distraction – classical music, acoustic songs, a podcast about a topic you already know the story of… It’s just a bit of noise, but it’s just for you and it’s not going to drag your mind away from your studies.
Lock away your devices
Put your phone, tablet or e-reader (anything you’re not using for your actual studies) in another room or even a physically lockable box – it’s amazing what you can buy online these days! That way you won’t be tempted to scroll through TikTok or read *just another chapter* of that psychological thriller you’re halfway through… Focusing on what you need to do, rather than what you want to do, is the only way to get through your work or studies. And being 100% present means the work you do will be even better!
Make a proper to-do list when studying from home
Whether you use good old-fashioned paper or a fancy app, putting together a to-do list is ideal for ensuring you don’t get distracted while studying from home. Make a rule: if it’s not on your to-do list, it’s not getting done during this study session! If it’s an online lecture you’re attending, the only thing on the list should be that – which means checking your Instagram, starting an essay for a different class, or finishing off a different project are off the table entirely.
When it comes to working independently, studying from home or attending online lectures, there are plenty of distractions – you need to ensure you ignore these and focus on what you need to do. It might be easier said than done, but it’s a skill you will need to carry into your career too. Perfecting it now will stand you in good stead in the future, and make sure you complete your degree to the best of your ability…
