I’ve been meaning to write this post for months (ba-dum ching)
Now that schools are back in session, I’ve found myself on Pinterest searching for studying tips to help me focus and not press that dreaded “Watch next episode in 15…14…13…” button on Netflix. My roommates and I will sit in the kitchen and gossip until one of us will say “Okay, I have to go get my homework done” at which point the four-five of us disperse faster than it takes me to strike a match (granted, it does take me quite some time to strike a match…but you get the point).
Look no further…
Nikki’s tips on NOT to procrastinate
1. Block all distracting websites. There’s this terrifying website that allows you to type in websites you wish to block for a designated amount of time. I did it once. It was awful, but it allowed me to only study (once I gave up trying to bypass it). If you have no self-control when it comes to social media, this might be a good one for you.
2. Create a studying playlist before you have to study. There have been countless times where I’ve sat down to study and spent tens of minutes trying to find the right kind of music to listen to. Now I’ve finally made a studying playlist on Spotify that’s my go-to when it’s crunch time. My current favorite study tunes are any piano cover of trashy pop music.
3. Eat before you study. I’m that kind of person who when it comes time to study, I’ll look for any escape. Food is my biggest weakness as I’ll sit down to study and think hey, I’m hungry, let’s eat. Half an hour later, I’m feeling stressed at my still-towering work load and guilty because I ate a whole loaf of bread. I study best after I eat a big meal.
4. Find a study location. When I really need to work hard, I go to the library and because of that, every time I enter the library, I become instantly more focused. Have a couple study spots that you can go to get away from the distractions of your roommates or mirrors. My favorites include a secret corner in the library, my living room couch (when the mates are gone), and top floors of any academic building.
5. Make to-do lists. Every day, I write down at least three things I want to get done. Crossing off things is one of the most satisfying feelings. That and actually finishing an assignment…I guess.
There you have it! If this helps you, fantastic. If not, figure out what works best for you and go off that. I wish you all the best this school year. We’ll get through it even if we come out alligator crawling.
onlyundecided 